cover letters internal positions examples

How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internal Position

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What is a cover letter for an internal position?

• How to create a cover letter for an in-house position
• Cover letter for an internal position template
• Cover letter for an internal promotion example

When applying for an internal job at your current company, you should create a cover letter to accompany your resume. A cover letter distinguishes you as a strong candidate for a promotion. It should outline your experience, qualifications and interest in the new role. In this article, you’ll learn how to write a cover letter for an internal position and provide a template and an example to help you write your own.

A cover letter for an internal position is a written statement that accompanies your application for a new role within your current organization. Similar to a standard cover letter, this type of message should discuss your professional accomplishments and your work experience to establish you as a strong candidate for the promotion.

How to create a cover letter for an internal position

Follow these steps to create a cover letter for an internal position:

1. Follow a standard cover letter length

Cover letters should average 250-350 words that span three to four paragraphs. If you submit a paper application, ensure that your cover letter is less than a page long using 12-point font. A shorter cover letter may not take full advantage of the potential that this introductory message offers, while a longer letter may need a more simplified narrative.

2. Begin the cover letter with the most important information

Start your cover letter by listing your contact information. State the date that you are submitting your application, and then list your company’s contact information, including the hiring manager’s name. Use a professional salutation like “Dear” before writing the body of the letter.

3. Write about your experience as a story or narrative for the hiring manager

Discuss your previous professional experience and the new skills and qualifications you developed in your current role. Even if you are already familiar with the hiring manager or you have discussed your experience in your initial interview, include this information in your cover letter as a reminder and to show your serious interest in the position as well as your readiness. Incorporate these elements into a narrative that explains why you are qualified for the promotion and how your experience will enable you to contribute in a unique way. 

4. Discuss how you have improved your qualifications and skills in your current role

Use examples to discuss how you have learned and advanced in your current role. Consider mentioning training programs you have completed, certifications you have earned or objectives you have achieved. Mentioning the ways you have improved allows you to position yourself as an employee who can continually impact the company in a positive way.

5. Mention specific contributions and accomplishments you’ve made in your current role

Add data and figures to quantify the contributions you have made to the company. Consider mentioning additional revenue you generated or cost-saving initiatives you established. Adding these specifics helps the hiring team understand the value you have added to the company and assess what you could provide in the new role.

6. Thank the hiring manager for considering your application

Conclude your cover letter by thanking the hiring manager for their consideration. Prompt them to take the next step in the process, which may be interviewing you or having a formal discussion about the job opening. Finish the letter with a formal closing like “Sincerely” before adding your signature.

Internal position cover letter template

Use this internal position cover letter template to write your cover letter:

Your Name Your Address | Your City, State, and ZIP Code | Your Phone Number | Your Email Address

Today’s Date

Hiring Manager’s Name Business Name Business Address Business City, State, and ZIP Code

Salutation,

The first paragraph should begin with a statement of your interest in the open position. Briefly summarize your career goals and unique qualifications.

The second paragraph should discuss your qualifications for the job opening. Mention accomplishments and specific figures and data when possible.

The third paragraph should expand on areas where you have improved since joining the company. Connect your achievements and skills to the job opening.

The final paragraph should include a reminder of your interest and a prompt to take the next step in the hiring process. End by expressing gratitude.

Formal Closing, Your Signature

Internal position cover letter example

Consider this cover letter a model for how to tell the story of your qualifications, goals and contributions. Use this example to help you write your cover letter for an internal position:

Hannah Lee 123 Main Way | New York, NY 11110 | 555-555-5555 | [email protected]

July 1, 2019

Pat Smith ABC Business 123 Business Pkwy New York, NY 11101

Dear Ms. Smith,

I am writing to apply formally for the Assistant Sales Manager position in the Sales and Marketing department. I was excited to learn about this newly created role, as I am eager to apply my leadership skills and extensive experience to a management role within the company.

When I joined ABC Business three years ago as an Account Coordinator, I brought five years of experience in the sales field. Since then, I have gained experience managing sales teams and devising strategies, even leading my current team to exceed our quarterly goal by 15%. My initiatives have also increased team-wide efficiency by 10%, further adding to increased revenue for the sales department.

In my three years in this Account Coordinator position, I have developed strong communication, problem-solving and management skills. I believe these skills, combined with my past experience and deep knowledge of the company, would allow me to contribute substantially to the Assistant Sales Manager role and the sales department’s objectives.

I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss this Assistant Sales Manager position with you in person. Thank you in advance for your consideration, and I look forward to talking with you further.

Sincerely, Hannah Lee

Internal Position cover letter examples

Are you hoping to secure a new position within your existing company?

An internal move can be the perfect solution if you love the company but you want to progress in your career or try your hand at a different department.

Either way, you need to submit a persuasive application, and we’ve created the following guide, complete with several internal position cover letter examples to help you do just that.

CV templates 

Internal Position cover letter example 1

Internal Position cover letter example 2

Internal Position cover letter example 3

The example cover letters here should give you a good general idea on how your Internal Position cover letter should be formatted and written.

The rest of this guide gives more specific guidance on how to create your own cover letter in this format, and even includes some templates you can copy and paste.

How to write an Internal Position cover letter

Here’s how you can write your own eye-catching cover letter, broken down into simple steps.

Write your cover letter in the body of an email/message

When writing your Internal Position cover letter, it’s best to type the content into the body of your email (or the job site messaging system) and not to attach the cover letter as a separate document.

This ensures that your cover letter gets seen as soon as a recruiter or employer opens your message.

If you attach the cover letter as a document, you’re making the reader go through an unnecessary step of opening the document before reading it.

If it’s in the body of the message itself, it will be seen instantly, which hugely increases the chances of it being read.

Start with a friendly greeting

Start you cover letter with a greeting that is professional but friendly.

This will build rapport with the recruiter whilst showing your professionalism.

• Hi, hope you’re well
• Hi [insert recruiter name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Avoid overly formal greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very traditional companies.

How to find the contact’s name?

Addressing the recruitment contact by name is an excellent way to start building a strong relationship. If it is not listed in the job advert, try these methods to find it.

• Check out the company website and look at their  About page. If you see a hiring manager, HR person or internal recruiter, use their name. You could also try to figure out who would be your manager in the role and use their name.
• Head to LinkedIn , search for the company and scan through the list of employees. Most professionals are on LinkedIn these days, so this is a good bet.

Identify the role you are applying for

Once you have opened the cover letter with a warm greeting, you need to explain which role you are interested in.

Sometimes a recruitment consultant could be managing over 10 vacancies, so it’s crucial to pinpoint exactly which one you are interested in.

Highlight the department/area if possible and look for any reference numbers you can quote.

These are some examples you can add..

• I am interested in applying for the role of *Internal Position* with your company.
• I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 40f57393)
• I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
• I saw your advert for an IT project manager on Reed and would like to apply for the role.

See also: CV examples – how to write a CV – CV profiles

Highlight your suitability

The sole objective of your cover letter is to motivate recruiters into to opening your CV. And you achieve this by quickly explaining your suitability to the roles you are applying for.

Take a look at the job descriptions you are applying to, and make note of the most important skills and qualifications being asked for.

Then, when crafting your cover letter, make your suitability the central focus.

Explain why you are the best qualified candidate, and why you are so well suited to carry out the job.

This will give recruiters all the encouragement they need to open your CV and consider you for the job.

Keep it short and sharp

When sending a job application to a recruiter or hiring manager, it is important to remember that they will normally be very busy and pushed for time.

Therefore, you need to get you message across to them quickly (in a matter of seconds ideally). So, keep your cover letter short and to-the-point. A long waffling cover letter will overwhelm recruiters when they are running through hundreds of emails in there inbox, but a concise one will get their attention.

So, keep your cover letter to just a few sentences long, and save the extensive detail for your CV.

Sign off professionally

To round of your CV, you should sign off with a professional signature.

This will give your cover letter a slick appearance and also give the recruiter all of the necessary contact information they need to get in touch with you.

The information to add should include:

• A friendly sign off – e.g. “Kindest regards”
• Your full name
• Phone number (one you can answer quickly)
• Email address
• Profession title
• Professional social network –  e.g. LinkedIn

Here is an example signature;

Warm regards,

Jill North IT Project Manager 078837437373 [email protected] LinkedIn

Quick tip: To save yourself from having to write your signature every time you send a job application, you can save it within your email drafts, or on a separate documents that you could copy in.

What to include in your Internal Position cover letter

Your Internal Position cover letter will be unique to your situation, but there are certain content guidelines you should stick to for best results.

To attract and entice recruiters, stick with the following key subjects in your cover letter – adapting them to fit your profession and target jobs.

• Your professional experience – Employers will be keen to know if your experience is suitable for the job you are applying to, so provide a good summary of it in your cover letter.
• Your qualifications and education – Highlight your most relevant and high-level of qualification, especially if they are essential to the job.
• The positive impact you have made – Employers love to hear about the benefits you can bring to them, so shout about anything impressive you have done, such as saving money or improving processes.
• Your reasons for leaving – Use a few words of your cover letter to explain why you are leaving your current job and ensure you avoid any negative reasons.
• Your availability – Let recruiters know when you can start a new job . Are you immediately available, or do you have a month notice period?

Internal Position cover letter templates

Copy and paste these Internal Position cover letter templates to get a head start on your own.

I hope you’re well.

I am delighted to submit my application for the open position of Finance Manager. With 7 years of experience overseeing the finance strategy development as Assistant Finance Manager, combined with my recent master’s in business administration, I am confident in my ability to excel in this elevated role.

Throughout my tenure at CFT Construction, I have successfully led the financial planning and analysis for our residential development unit, demonstrating expertise in advanced financial modelling and budgeting. My implementation of a streamlined financial reporting system in 2021 improved accuracy by 20%, while a new budgeting process reduced variance by 15% within the first year. I effectively guided the multinational management team through their EOY financial analysis as well as spearheading new training initiatives which excellent results, which I would continue in this more senior role.

I am deeply committed to ensuring the growth and sustainability of the company and believe that my specialised operational knowledge would make me a great asset in this role. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

All the best,

Jordan Teller ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

I am thrilled to apply for the position of Executive Secretary. With my 15+ years of service as an Administrative Secretary within the company and my NVQ Level 4 diploma in Business and Administration, I am confident that I can continue providing excellent secretarial support in this new role.

Having provided unwavering support to management professionals in both the healthcare and marketing industries during my career, I possess a diverse skill set, including project management, diary coordination, and expert transcription and proofreading abilities. Within Lead Marketing, I have contributed significantly, streamlining client follow-up systems, resulting in a remarkable 20% improvement in response time. Additionally, my implementation of an expense tracking system for the senior management team led to a remarkable 38% reduction in overspending.

As a dedicated and detail-oriented professional, I am eager to further contribute to the success of Lead Marketing in the capacity of Executive Secretary. I would love to discuss my vision for this role further in an interview when you have availability.

Thomas Stanley ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

I am excited to submit my application for the new role of Senior Fashion Buyer at our company, where I believe my proven track record, diverse skill set, and passion for fashion will make a significant impact.

With over 16 years of experience as a Fashion Buyer in the purchasing team, I have garnered extensive expertise in conducting market research, analysing sales trends, and sourcing products from vendors across Europe and the USA. My ability to curate merchandise assortments that align with the latest fashion trends and consumer preferences has consistently driven sales and profitability, as exemplified by the 15% sales increase and 12% reduction in online markdowns achieved through data-driven product selection. Additionally, my proficiency in supplier management and negotiation has fostered strong working relationships which has been recognised by my training contract with the customer service team.

I am eager to further discuss my accomplishments and strategic vision for Marks & Spencer’s as a Senior Fashion Buyer. I am available for interview at any time.

Sunni Carter ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Writing an impressive cover letter is a crucial step in landing that Internal Position, so taking the time to perfect it is well worth while.

By following the tips and examples above you will be able to create an eye-catching cover letter that will wow recruiters and ensure your CV gets read – leading to more job interviews for you.

Good luck with your job search!

• English (UK)
• Cover Letter Examples

Cover Letter for Internal Position or Promotion Examples

You come first, leave last. You put in the effort, the hours, the sweat. You’re a big fish in a small pond. Let’s make a splash.

Everyone wants to feel appreciated. It’s basic psychology, we crave it, from “Look at my picture, mommy!” all the way to “I wish you’d pay more attention to me.”

Please don’t say neither of the above to your boss.

What you can say is "Please consider me for the open position at our company," while showcasing your praiseworthy achievments. This cover letter for internal position guide will show you how.

In this guide:

• Two cover letter examples: a sample cover letter for internal position, and a cover letter for promotion.
• How to not trip up on the basics: the cover letter format.
• A quick and ready template to start from in minutes.

Save hours of work and get a cover letter like this.  Pick a template, fill it in. Quick and easy. Choose from  18+ cover letter templates and download your cover letter now.

Create your cover letter now

What users say about ResumeLab:

I had an interview yesterday and the first thing they said on the phone was: “Wow! I love your cover letter.” Patrick I love the variety of templates. Good job guys, keep up the good work! Dylan  My previous cover letter was really weak and I used to spend hours adjusting it in Word. Now, I can introduce any changes within minutes. Absolutely wonderful! George

Looking for different cover letter examples and guides? See:

• Cover Letter for Internship Position Examples
• Cover Letter with No Experience Examples
• Customer Service Cover Letter Examples
• Data Analyst Cover Letter Examples
• Digital Marketing Cover Letter Examples
• Executive Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• General Cover Letter Examples
• Librarian Cover Letter Examples
• LPN Cover Letter Examples
• Manager Cover Letter Examples

Depending on whether you’re applying to a new internal position, or you’re asking for a promotion, you must adapt your approach. See how these two examples differ.

1. Cover Letter for Internal Position Examples

Our sample cover letter for internal position applications comes from Maria, who in her job as a warehouse manager revolutionized her site and made huge profitability gains, and is now looking to progress to an operations manager position.

Let’s see how she spins her yarn to display just how much she has done for the company.

#1: Cover Letter for Internal Position Example

Maria C. Dixon

Warehouse Manager

3016 Fulton Street

New Martinsville, WV 26155

304-390-6463

[email protected]

New Martinsville, Feb 25, 2020

Richard Hawkes

HW Operations

7 Industrial Road

Austin, TX 73301

Dear Richard,

I would like to implore you to consider me for the position of Operations Manager you have advertised externally. I have been with HW for 3+ years now as a warehouse manager, and in this time, achieved huge profitability gains each consecutive year.

I believe I have what it takes to perform as an Operations Manager for HW. As a Warehouse Manager at New Martinsville, I turned around the site which was losing $140k p.a. into one that closed the last year with $280k profit. Additionally, we closed this January with a $35k profit, our record month since the creation of the warehouse. I did this by rearranging the warehouse setup into thematic zones that have items that are most often bought together close to each other. This allowed us to reduce the average daily distance walked by a picker from 7.6 miles to just 4.3 (making employees happier, too!), and reduce average parcel completion time from 14.2 to just 8.1 minutes. These improvements allowed us to not have to use seasonal part-time workers, and even sustain record profits with just 31 employees, instead of 37 full-time and 20 seasonal workers.

I believe that the aptitude and effort I demonstrated, especially the savings increases and costs reductions I have made in my warehouse, could be scaled to the wider company, and I believe it to be necessary, at a time when 25% of our locations are operating under the red line. 

When could we meet to tell you about how we could roll-out these improvements to even our most remote locations in record time?

Best Regards,

What if you’re after a promotion that hasn’t been advertised as an open position? We got you.

Our cover letter for promotion comes from Alejandro, a junior developer in a software house, looking to progress to a normal developer position with more pay and perks.

Example #2: Cover Letter for Promotion

Alejandro S. White

4917 Yorkshire Circle

Seattle, WA 98101

423-512-2311

[email protected]

linkedin.com/alejwhitendro

github.com/alejo99

Seattle, Jan 9, 2020

Jane Employer

Head of Development

Easy Software

1 Tech Avenue

I am writing to you to update you on my progress and contribution as a junior developer in the past 12 months I have been at Easy Software, and to implore you to consider promoting me to a developer position.

As a junior developer, my responsibilities revolve around supporting the senior members of the Dev Team—being delegated the easier, partial tasks, testing, debugging, brainstorming, as well as working on software documentation, internal and external. In the past 12 months, I have been the most effective debugger out of our 6 junior developers, fixing 1228 bugs across 21 applications. During brainstorming sessions, I often contribute to the discussion with senior devs with meaningful ideas, such as the addition of the public tracking functionality to the Seattle Transport Authority project, which reinvigorated public transport use in Seattle, and increased it by 5% in the first month, and another 12% in the second since implementation. Very often, while testing, I am able to independently fix some of the more serious issues that occur, whereas most of my colleagues refer them to the senior devs. I believe I have shown enough maturity, drive, and skill to make the move to a full developer position. 

I am currently making a bigger-than-junior impact in my junior developer position. I am a firm believer that in a developer position, I will be able to make an even bigger impact, and allow Easy Software to grow and produce even more interesting and innovative products.

When could we meet for me to tell you about how I fixed the CoffeeMate bug that had the whole team baffled for 2 days?

Kind Regards,

Haven't found what you're looking for? Check all our good cover letter examples.

2. How to Make Your Cover Letter For Promotion Blow Them Away

1. format your cover letter for internal position neatly.

They know you. They think they do. They know you as much as you can get to know someone during idle chat at lunch, after 2 drinks too many at the sushi spot during the Christmas Party. That’s a great place to start. Don’t mess it up by busting out the Comic Sans like it’s 2002.

Here are the rules to ace the cover letter format :

• Align text to the left without justification. 
• Use 1-inch margins on all sides.
• Your cover letter font should be the same as your resume font —use a classic like Bell MT, Arial or Garamond.
• Use 1.15 line spacing. Drop a line between each section, and between paragraphs.
• The best length for your cover letter is one page.

So, what to include in your cover letter for internal positions?

2. Make a Header With Your Contact Information

This may be a formality, but do not omit anything. Make sure the header matches your resume header , if you are sending a resume that is. The rest shouldn’t be a problem, find out who’s going to be dealing with the application and put down their details.

Cover Letter For Internal Position: Header 

[ Your Full Name]

[ Your Job Title ] (Optional)

[ Address ]

[ Phone Number ]

[ Email Address ]

[ LinkedIn Profile ] (Optional)

[ City and Date ]

[ Hiring Manager’s Full Name ]

[ Hiring Manager’s Position ]

[ Company Name ]

[ Company Street Address ]

[ City and Zip Code ]

Expert Hint: Remember, whatever you do: Do not be smarter than your boss .

Double your impact with a matching resume and cover letter combo. Use our cover letter generator and make your application documents pop out.

CREATE YOUR COVER LETTER NOW

Want to try a different look? There's 21 more. A single click will give your document a total makeover. Pick a cover letter template here .

3. Introduce The Position You’re Applying For

Get right to business. Address your cover letter by first name. Start off your cover letter by identifying the position you are seeking, and justify it with a relevant factor of your performance in your current role. 

Fill these [blanks]:

Cover Letter For Internal Position: Introduction

Dear  [Hiring manager’s Name] ,

When I heard of the new  [target position name]  position being created, I immediately saw the parallels from my current position that make me the right fit. Having worked the last  [number of years]+   years as a  [previous position title] , I have spent a lot of time honing  [a parallel skill or responsibility]   skills, resulting in  [metric/improvement/achievement] , and leading me to believe I am ready to progress to this position with more responsibility.

Expert Hint: Do not be callous, even if the hiring manager is your best buddy. Do not write that ‘they have to look no further’, or that ‘you decided to save them money on recruitment’. Always treat as if a stranger will read it, because they very well might. Worse, someone you know might read it, you might not get the position, and it will sting. Explain how you understand the company culture and will be a smoother transition to promote you than someone from the outside, but do not big yourself up needlessly.

4. Make a Case For Why They Should Promote You

Take a piece of paper and split it into two columns. On the left, write out your every responsibility, duty, the things you do at work. Even if you did them once. Think, “If I was trying to tell someone how good I am at it, what would I say?”. Think numbers, achievements from your resume .

Fill that page. When you’re done, walk away, come back in a few hours, and write down the things you’ve suddenly remembered. Now, take the description of the new position, of its duties and responsibilities, and highlight the things that match with your list. 

Here are the components of your promotion cover letter’s second paragraph. Remember to back it up with the evidence. Bonus points if you can compare yourself to the ‘company average’ or even better—your past self. They may not know about your improvement, so let them know. 

Start with this:

Cover Letter for Internal Position Sample: Second Paragraph

In my  [X]+   years as a  [your position name] , I have excelled at  [matching responsibility/duty 1] , on occasion even managing to  [achievement/metric 1]   for our company. While  [matching responsibility/duty 2] , I have been able to  [achievement/metric 2] , contributing to  [a company metric, perhaps the company made record profits that year] . While at the start of my spell with  [company name]  I have only been able to  [underperforming metric 1] , however, after  [remedial steps/training you took]   I am proud to say that I have  [talk about your improvement and what it means for the company] . I am keen to keep developing further at maximum pace, and this opportunity is the right move for both I and  [company name]  to grow.

Expert Hint: We as humans are prone to believing people are watching and judging us all the time. Nothing could be further from the truth. Before you put yourself in the spotlight, make sure there is nothing that will ruin your chances accidentally, on social media for example.

5. Make The Final Interview

Companies always want to grow. They want to make more. However, companies cannot grow if the people don’t grow—or the number of them. Surely, it is better to have the more experienced with the company culture rising, instead of keeping them down and plugging strangers in higher up. 

The costs of training a new person are higher, their adaptation time is longer—it is not certain that they will ever fit into the company culture. These are all valid arguments, but not to make in this form. Do not ever try to uplift yourself by putting down other candidates. 

Explain simply how promoting you would be more cost-effective, have a higher chance of success—not how hiring your competitors would be disastrous.

Fill in the [blanks]:

Cover Letter for Internal Position Sample: Third Paragraph

The culture of  [company name]   is something I am intertwined in. I am asking you to allow me to grow, which I will return in kind. It is more beneficial to the smooth running of the company to allow the people with the know-how and understanding of the business to rise and take more responsibility. I understand the business, how it operates and its goals. The company is aiming to  [describe the goals here] , but the company cannot grow if the people do not grow.

6. Close the Deal

Normally at ResumeLab, here’s where we advise people to ask for the interview. However, unless the position is in another division, country, etc., you can wager going for a ‘I’m looking forward to’. Usually, this can be seen as arrogant or even callous, but you ought not to worry.

A lot of people use that expression freely in their applications, and here it’s valid, and less-committing than usual—you can simply say you look forward to catching up with them about it, which could mean an interview, or could mean catching them in a hall. 

Cover Letter for Internal Position Sample: Sign Off & Call to Action

I’ll look forward to catching up with you about this opportunity. I am eager to tell you more about how  [something you did]   and managed to  [achievement] .

[Digital copy of your handwritten signature]

[Your Full Name]

[Phone Number]

[Email Address]

With ResumeLab’s resume builder you’ll write your resume in a flash. Get specific content to boost your chances of getting the job. Add job descriptions, bullet points, and skills. Improve your resume in our resume builder now .

CREATE YOUR RESUME NOW

Nail it all with a splash of color, choose a clean font, highlight your skills in just a few clicks. You’re the perfect candidate and we’ll prove it. Just pick one of 21 resume templates and get started now .

As you write a cover letter for internal positions and promotions, remember to:

• Get the formatting and header absolutely right—or it looks foolish.
• State what position you’re applying to, and introduce yourself with a relevant achievement from your resume in this capacity, or parallel role.
• In the second paragraph, draw on your experience in your position, and how much, and how well you do the things that your new job focuses on.
• Describe your drive, passion, and commitment in the third paragraph.
• Request an interview/call and sign formally. 

Do you have any more questions about writing a cover letter for internal positions? Did you find our cover letter for internal promotion example helpful? Leave us a comment, I’ll be more than happy to hear from you!

About ResumeLab’s Editorial Process

At ResumeLab, quality is at the crux of our values, supporting our commitment to delivering top-notch career resources. The editorial team of career experts carefully reviews every article in accordance with editorial guidelines , ensuring the high quality and reliability of our content. We actively conduct original research, shedding light on the job market's intricacies and earning recognition from numerous influential news outlets . Our dedication to delivering expert career advice attracts millions of readers to our blog each year.

Dave is a career expert delivering a wide range of well-researched advice regarding the job hunting and application process. At ResumeLab, his data-driven resume and cover letter guides help readers capitalize on their potential.

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• Cover Letter Examples

Cover Letter for Internal Position or Promotion in 2024

Our customers have been hired by:

Why change the company if you can stay in the one you're happy with? Especially if there's a chance to switch your current position or even get a promotion! But, whenever things like this are discussed in a chill-out zone in your office, casually joining such a conversation might not do the trick. 

There’s one thing that will help you boost your chances of getting the job you want in your company. Let’s learn how to create a perfect cover letter for an internal position!

This guide will show you:

• A cover letter for an internal position example better than 9 out of 10 others.
• Cover letter for internal promotion examples that let you plug in your core strengths.
• Step-by-step work plan for how to write a cover letter for an internal position.

This guide will show you a cover letter template for internal positions, plus tips for how to write your own great internal position cover letter.

Want to write your cover letter fast? Use our cover letter builder. Choose from  20+ professional cover letter templates  that match your resume. See actionable examples and get expert tips along the way.

Create your cover letter now

Sample cover letter for a resume— See more cover letter examples and create your cover letter here .

Targeting a senior-level job at your company? See specific cover letter examples below:

• Executive Cover Letter Example
• Manager Cover Letter Example
• IT Manager Cover Letter Sample
• Executive Director Cover Letter
• Project Manager Cover Letter

Want to explore your options even further? Visit our full selection of cover letter examples: Professional Cover Letter Examples to Apply for a Job in 2023

Let’s take a look at a perfect internal job application cover letter:

Cover Letter for an Internal Position Example

Graham Clarkson

Content Team Leader

623-474-8540

[email protected]

Jane Matters

Hiring Manager

QuadRollin’ Techs

[email protected]

It’s been a lifelong dream of mine to fill a creative director position here at QuadRollin’ Techs. When I first got my job as Content Team Leader, I instantly knew this startup was a place for years to come. I’ve proven myself a skilled creator now ready to become QuadRollin’ Techs Creative Director.

I’ve read the job posting carefully and know the position requires more responsibilities. But I also know I face similar challenges in my day-to-day work. 

• I’ve secured 5+ contracts with our top 3 clients.
• I’ve used strong communication skills to narrow down the daily brainstorming sessions to 15 minutes, saving us over an hour of work. 
• I was nominated for the Best Online Social Content Creator award at the ongoing 2022 AMVCA for my outstanding work on QuadRollin video ads.
• Furthermore, I’ve used my management skills to assemble a team of highly-skilled content writers, video creators, graphic designers, and performance marketing specialists that boosted Instagram ad conversion by 25% in less than a year. 
• And I’ve been doing all that while serving as the right-hand man for Kate Kinnear, our previous Creative Director.

The most compelling part of this position to me is that it’s the perfect fit. I’ve dreamed of working as a Creative Director at QuadRollin’ Techs for the past seven years, working hard and showing my proactive attitude every step of the way. Applying for this position is a dream come true. This position was my goal and the reason I joined the company in the first place. I strongly believe I can help our company create the next #1 mobile app in the mobile game category, prepare for the release of two sequels of our top games, and make our marketing shine all across social media platforms. Achieving goals, expressed in one of QuadRollin’ Techs mottos, Aim for the Moon, Shoot for the Stars, is what motivated me throughout the years. I am certain it will keep me motivated to deliver the best creations, assemble the best specialists, and bring the highest value as Creative Director in our company.

[email protected]

P.S. Please find Kate’s letter of recommendation attached, where she expressed how I’ve contributed to cutting costs by 25% in the last year by repurposing designs and introducing new ways of task management within our team. Can we schedule a time to chat about how I can exceed your expectations, as I’ve exceeded hers?

Pro tip : Do you know what will help you impress the hiring manager even more? An amazing resume for an internal position !

Now, let’s learn how to write a cover letter for an internal position!

1. Choose the Ideal Template for Your Internal Cover Letter 

Did you know that 83% of hiring managers claim that a cover letter is important to the decision-making process? That means there is a great chance that a hiring manager who recruited you also thinks a candidate with a cover letter is trying harder than the one without it. So you need to ace it from A to Z. And A, in this case, is the format of your cover letter .

So before writing your cover letter for an internal position, let’s see how to structure it.

Cover Letter for Internal Position—Checklist

• Your contact info.
• The company’s info. 
• Dear (hiring manager’s name). 
• Paragraph #1: an introduction + a great job-fitting achievement
• Paragraph #2: your key skills + the reason you’re the perfect fit for the job
• Paragraph #3: your passion + why you want the job you’re applying for 
• Paragraph #4: your call to action 
• Best regards + your name + your current title

That’s the basics. But you should also follow some guidelines to make your internal promotion cover letter as readable as possible:

• Choose a modern template for your cover letter . Also, make sure it matches your resume.
• Keep the ideal length of a cover letter . 3 to 4 paragraphs should be just fine.
• Set the cover letter line spacing and margins . Line spacing should be 1.15, and margins should be 1 inch on each edge of the document.
• Select a proper cover letter font . There are more options than Times New Roman, Arial, and Calibri.

Now you know the rules almost as well as your company’s address. So let’s start writing your cover letter!

Have you been working within the same company for years and in different positions? Learn how to list them on your resume: How to Show Multiple Positions on a Resume (At 1 Company)?

2. Begin Your Internal or Promotion Cover Letter With a Hook

You want to grab the attention of your hiring manager from the top of your cover letter. That’s why you should focus on creating a capturing cover letter intro that will make them want to read the entire document! 

How can you make a great first impression on your hiring manager for the second time (since you’ve already made it once)?

Here’s how to start a cover letter for an internal position:

1.  Create a professional internal cover letter header  that will include:

• Your name and exact job title in the top left corner
• The necessary contact information, such as your phone number and email address
• Add the city and date right below your personal information
• Write the addressee’s details (name, title, company name, email address)

1. Start with a personal greeting . That’s a great way to engage with your reader from the very beginning. Including some information about your company and explaining what position you're interested in and why is a great way to start.

2. Express your excitement about the opening . Mentioning how you always dreamt about the position you’re applying to and how it was your goal from day one in the company might do some magic.

Let’s see some examples: 

Cover Letter for an Internal Position [First Paragraph]

You can see that the first example shows a candidate driven by ambition, focus on the goal, and passion. The second example might be too casual. 

Also, is that an integration party small talk or a professional cover letter written by someone who’s trying to get a better job within a company he’s currently working for? It sure looks like a second one, despite a properly edited header.

Pro tip : Don't call your hiring managers “ To whom it may concern .” Even if you don’t know them personally, finding their name won’t take long!

3. Create an Ideal Middle for Your Cover Letter for an Internal Position

Internal hiring is 6x more effective than all other hiring sources. No wonder why your hiring manager might find your application more interesting than the one sent by an external candidate. However, you still need to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the role and why they should trust you more. The best place to do it is in the cover letter's middle section.

How to write a great middle part for your internal promotion cover letter:

• Highlight your relevant achievements . Focus on what you’ve done for the company and what were your biggest wins. 
• Mention some of the relevant skills that you think will convince the hiring manager that you’re the person they’re looking for.
• Focus on what’s quantifiable. That’s how you write about the precise change you made.
• Make it personal. Ensure the recruiters that it’s been your goal all along, learning and developing new skills allowing you to become a suitable candidate for that opening.

Let’s have a look at some examples:

Cover Letter for a Promotion or Internal Position Examples [Middle]

The first example gives you specifics, shows the candidate is ready to take over that role, and tells about their work history within the company, which is great! And an ending with a reminder of having professional references from a former coworker is also a fantastic idea. 

The second one needs more information. What relevant experience, what people, what difference has it made? No exact information. And the “ask my superior” part is just plain lazy.

Okay, so you’ve got your “why me” part ready. Now let’s check out how to end with a bang that will convince the hiring manager to invite you for a 1:1 before any other external candidate!

Pro tip : Mentioning past promotions on your resume or cover letter is always great. It shows you know what gaining experience within one organization means!

When making a resume in our builder, drag & drop bullet points, skills, and auto-fill the boring stuff. Spell check? Check . Start building a professional resume template here for free .

When you’re done, Zety’s resume builder will score your resume and our resume checker will tell you exactly how to make it better.

4. Conclude Your Cover Letter for an Internal Position Perfectly

Learning how to end a cover letter means leaving the recruiters with a great impression of yourself. If done correctly, your document will remain high on the pile on their desk. And who knows, they may visit you personally at your desk.

This is how you can end your cover letter for an internal position:

• Express your excitement again . Remember that you want to show the recruiters you really care about the opening. 
• Highlight your experience, skills, and passion . Those will help the company if you get different responsibilities. 
• Show your commitment . That’s a great way of expressing loyalty to the company, which every recruiter highly values.
• Try to schedule a meeting . A promise of how you can make a difference if given a chance can help you get invited for an interview.

Let’s look at the difference between a good and a bad cover letter for internal position endings:

Cover Letter for an Internal Position Examples [Ending]

The candidate from the first example shows how passionate he is and how he wants the job. He expresses that it was his long goal that he was trying to achieve. And now he has a chance to prove himself. Who would miss an opportunity to talk to someone trying to achieve their goal?

Would you consider the second application, though? Would you like to talk to that candidate? Would you visit them at their desk? No, no, no!

Pro tip : Writing a follow-up email might be a good idea to remind the hiring manager about your application. But remember to do it after at least a week from your first email, and include a resume and a cover letter in the follow-up.

Plus, a great cover letter that matches your resume will give you an advantage over other candidates. You can write it in our cover letter builder here.  Here's what it may look like:

See more cover letter templates and start writing.

Key Takeaway

And that’s it! Writing a cover letter for an internal position can be that simple! So just to sum things up really quickly, here are some things you need to remember:

• Use the correct format for your cover letter for an internal position. Nothing says “a professional” more than a neat document.
• Keep them interested from the start, and keep them reading! That’s how you convince them you’re a great fit.
• Highlight your relevant skills and achievements. Tell them what you’ve done for the company and how you can do more.
• Express your excitement. Showing that you’re looking forward to even discussing the opportunity of switching positions can help you get invited to discuss it.
• Conclude with a call to action. Ask for a meeting during which you’d tell them how you can help the company even more.

And since you work in one company, try to talk to the hiring manager. Just ask them if they’ve received your email. That’s a good conversation starter, and it can immediately lead you to an interview!

Thanks for reading! Want to know more about writing a promotion great cover letter? Would you like to share your experience with writing an internal cover letter? Let’s talk about it in the comment section below!

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Cover Letters for a Promotion or Internal Position

What to Include in Your Cover Letter

• Sample Cover Letter for Promotion
• Email Job Promotion Letter

Applying for a Transfer

More about getting promoted.

When you're being considered for an internal position or a promotion, you may need to write a cover letter to officially apply for the new position within your company.

What should you write in a cover letter for a job at a company where you already work? What's the best way to frame your credentials to secure a promotion?

Here's everything you need to know about crafting the perfect cover letter for an internal role, along with sample letters and writing tips.

A job promotion cover letter should clearly explain your interest in the job and delineate  how you are qualified for the position . The letter should also recap your experience and knowledge of your employer’s current mission and needs, as well as the progressive growth you have enjoyed within the company.

Don't presume the hiring manager or department manager reviewing your qualifications will know your background just because you work for the company.

Sharing the specific details of your history with the organization will help ensure  your resume gets a closer look  and that your qualifications get noticed.

This is especially true when applying for a position at a large company. Also, be prepared to discuss these  qualifications during job interviews .

See below for a general cover letter for a job promotion, as well as an email cover letter written for a retail position.

Sample Cover Letter for a Promotion or Internal Position

This is a cover letter example for an internal position. Download the internal position cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online), or see below for more examples.

Lewis Applicant 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 555-555-5555 lewis.applicant@email.com

June 4, 2024

Julia Lee Director, Communications ACME Retail 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321

Dear Ms. Lee,

I would like to formally apply for the Assistant Communications Manager position in the Corporate Communications Department. As you are aware, I have had extensive experience with Acme Retail starting when I participated in your summer editorial intern program while I was still in college.

Since then I have been advanced through progressively more responsible positions in both the Human Resources and Marketing Departments. During my tenure, I have developed exceptional writing and editing skills and have designed and implemented highly successful communication strategies at the departmental level.

I have also demonstrated my ability to work with leaders across business units and multiple lines of business, consistently earning exemplary scores on my annual performance evaluations by my supervisors.

In addition, I have been responsible for benefits communications and employee relations, as well as liaising with the company's clients and vendors to ensure all projects are completed by established milestones.

These are just a few examples of my accomplishments and contributions to our company. I hope you will find that this brief view, in combination with the attached resume, describes a dedicated employee of Acme Retail with the experience and skills to meet or exceed the requirements of the position of Assistant Communications Manager.

I appreciate your consideration and look forward to discussing this opportunity for promotion with you at your convenience. Please let me know if there is any other information I can provide that will support my candidacy for this promotion.

Best regards,

Signature (hard copy letter)

Lewis Applicant

Email Job Promotion Cover Letter

Here's an example of a letter or email message used to apply for a job promotion to a management position at a retail store:

Subject:  Application for Manager - Shoe Department

Dear Janice,

It was with great interest that I read that Human Resources is seeking applications for a new Manager in the Shoe Department. Please accept my resume for review and consideration for this role.

I have been with Casey's for a total of four years, two in my current position of Assistant Manager in the Children's Department, and two as a Sales Associate in the Junior Department. Before coming to Casy's, I worked for Mears as a Sales Associate in the Shoe Department as well as in the Men's Department.

With my experience in varied departments, I feel I would be an asset as a Manager here at Casy's. In my capacity as an Assistant Manager, I successfully took on many of the managerial duties in the Children's Department last year when Suzy Smith was out on maternity leave, and I would welcome the opportunity to bring that same stability, energy, and dedication to the Shoe Department within the vacancy created by Amy Jenner's sudden departure.

I appreciate your consideration for this position. It has been a real pleasure to come to work every day since you hired me, and I thus look forward to continuing to grow in my career at Casy's.

Caroline Xao Assistant Manager, Shoes caroline.xo@caseys.com 555-555-1212

If you're seeking a transfer instead of a promotion, here's a transfer request letter example , a letter to use when you're relocating , and tips for requesting a transfer to a new job with your current employer.

When you're working on getting a promotion, it may take some effort to get noticed by management. There are ways you can enhance your promotability and lay a strong groundwork for a successful move up the career ladder.

Take the time to ensure you're in a perfect position to make the best impression at work and to  get that promotion you're seeking .

Key Takeaways

Provide details. Remind your employer of your history with their company, contributions to their success, and dedication to their corporate mission and goals.

Be grateful. Express your appreciation for the opportunities the employer has given you to grow within your current job with them. This will also serve as a reminder to them that you have taken good advantage of the training and increased responsibilities they have offered you.

Enhance your promotability. From the moment you accept an entry-level position with an employer you respect, look for opportunities to gain the skills that will position you to assume promotions to roles of greater responsibility in the future. 

How To Create A Cover Letter For An Internal Position

In This Guide:

Cover letter for internal position template, setting the tone, connect your experiences and skills.

Show Gratitude (It's Not About Me, Me, Me)

You've worked hard, put your time in, but now you're looking for something more.

Your dedication and patience have paid off because now you found a new position that you know that you're qualified for.

And best of all: It's inside the company that you're working at.

After seeing how hard you work, your manager may have tapped you on the shoulder for a promotion. Your leadership skills make you the ideal candidate for a management position, and now you need your cover letter to reflect that.

Or maybe you have the drive and ambition to go further than the current position that you're in. You've seen a job opening in another department at your company, and you want to throw your hat in for the position.

Whether you're being promoted or looking for a job that better suits you, your cover letter needs to show that you will excel in the new position that you're applying for.

You have a major leg up on the rest of the competition because you already know the people, vision, and values of the company that you're applying for.

You have your foot in the door, and now all you need to do is pry it open a little more and step in.

We can help you with that.

In this article, you'll learn:

• How to set the tone for a cover letter for an internal position.
• How to connect your experiences and skills to the position that you're applying to.
• How to quantify your achievements at your current job.
• How to show gratitude to your current manager, team members, and the organization for which you work.

While I've got you here, if you're looking to create a cover letter which will wow any hiring manager, Enhancv has over 500 examples of professional cover letters to gain information from.

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Drop your resume here or choose a file . PDF & DOCX only. Max 2MB file size.

Dwayne J. Nicole

Marketing Analyst

312-456-5555

[email protected]

Linkedin.com/in/dwayne-nicole

Chicago, April 18, 2022

Bryanna Bartlett

Senior Marketing Director

Northern Electric, Inc.

450 Pullman Road

Chicago, Illinois

Dear Mrs. Bartlett,

As a loyal employee of Northern Electric, I am excited to be interviewing for the position of Marketing Manager in the North-east region. I have worked under Shawn Tuttle for the last few years as a marketing analyst. Shawn has mentored me in the role of customer relationship management for the last three years, and I have grown leaps and bounds in my understanding of how to properly market and sell the products of Northern Electric. I am truly grateful that Shawn has recommended me for this promotion, and I also feel confident that I can excel in this role and help to provide future growth to the company.

I have been with the company for over 10 years, starting out on the sales team. I pride myself on my ability to learn quickly, and I have developed excellent communication skills, with both customers and team members. As well, I create a great rapport with the customers with whom I spoke, making sure that their needs were covered, which can be easily seen in my customer satisfaction which is 97%.

In the last three years working under Shawn, I've gained experience overseeing sales teams, and as a result of my work I have seen my sales team produce a 5% increase in profits this quarter. In fact, under my leadership, we saw sales of our new line of PLC computers grow by almost 10%. Throughout this time, one of the things that differentiated me from other marketing analyst team leaders was that I promoted a holistic view of customer relationships, utilizing Customer Relationship Management software. I gained a special understanding of how to turn inbound leads into clients, all the while prioritizing the needs of the clients.

I've read the job description for the marketing manager of the North-eastern region, and I believe I will excel in the position because I have already performed many of the requirements found within. I have filled leadership positions, and I excelled because I chose a servant leadership model, one in which I chose to lead from the front and take into consideration the needs of other team members.

Thank you for your time and consideration in reviewing my application. My supervisor will be happy to meet with you to shed light on any of the items that I mentioned in this cover letter. Please reach out to me if you need more information about my work experience and technical skills. I would be happy to help with anything that you need.

Dwayne Nicole

Writing a cover letter for an internal position is like reuniting with an old friend.

You are a known entity within your organization .

Good for you! That first step of networking is already out of the way!

It may be even better if you are applying for a new position within your organization which is overseen by your current manager.

And even if you don't have a relationship with your hiring manager, you will have made a name for yourself within the organization. They will know of you, even before you apply for the job.

But before you jump into writing your cover letter, the tone that you use for your letter is incredibly important. Check out the tips below to help craft a cover letter which hits the mark:

Keep The Tone Professional

One of the most important things to keep in mind when writing a cover letter is that it is a formal letter.

An article in the Atlantic states that a cover letter's main purpose, from when it was first introduced in the US in the 1930's, was "to paint a picture that might not easily emerge from the denser material that was, well, under cover."

What a cover letter does is show the hiring manager that you are the most capable, dependable person for the position.

If you want to show that you are the most capable person for the position, keep the tone fairly professional by using these methods:

Properly Format Your Cover Letter Header

By including a properly formatted cover letter header, you show you view this document as a formal, professional letter. Even if you are simply dropping the letter off in your manager's office, be sure to include information like:

• Personal information: your name, your email address, phone number,
• The date you are writing
• The hiring managers information: their name, position in the company, and the address of your company.

If you'd like to see more examples of how to format your cover letter header, check out this article on Enhancv which provides examples and solutions to create a properly formatted cover letter header.

Keep The Body of The Letter Professional

Remember, a cover letter is a document that is addressed to a specific person, usually the hiring manager. Even if you know the hiring manager from your current position, try to keep informalities out of the writing.

Also, try to avoid negative comments about your current manager.

Use Your Cover Letter To Tell a Story

The dominant tone of your cover letter should be geared towards an exploration of your story , with an emphasis on what makes you exceptional, and the ideal candidate to fill this position.

It's hard to sell ourselves. Even those whose current role is in the sales and marketing field may have a difficult time with sharing about what makes us unique.

Many of us have been told from when we were little we shouldn't brag about ourselves.

But I'll tell you that when writing a cover letter, the most important thing you can do is share about your accomplishments, how you've grown as a leader and gained technical skills and abilities.

It's not bragging to explain where you excelled in your position.

Soft Skills Vs. Hard Skills

Soft skills.

Soft skills involve people skills, like communication, leadership, and any habits which make you work better in a team. When you are applying for a promotion, highlight the soft skills that you've gained through your current position, especially those that involve leadership.

Soft skills to promote in your cover letter include:

• Your ability to collaborate within teams
• Your public speaking ability
• Your ability to problem solve
• How you manage your time
• Leadership skills
• Your ability to adapt

Check out this article if you’d like find descriptive words to describe yourself:

The Best Words to Describe Yourself on a Resume

Hard Skills

Alternatively, hard skills are technical skills which you gain through years of experience working in your field, as well as skills that you've gained through school or other courses. If you're considering transferring to another department, highlight relevant technical skills which would make you the perfect fit for that department.

Although hard skills completely depend on the field within which you work, let's look at one example which can help you understand which hard skills to promote. If you are an IT security manager, some hard skills that you could promote include:

• Your knowledge of cloud computing
• How you visualize and create virtual images or maps
• Your experience with IT Security management software
• Your understanding of enterprise architecture management

Highlight Soft Skills For A Promotion

When you write a cover letter for a promotion, you should highlight your experience in a leadership role. Provide examples from your current job of when you've managed teams of colleagues.

Point to quantitative results that you've shown as a leader of a team. If you’ve seen a major sales profits increase while you were the team leader, mention that you were the one leading, encouraging, and facilitating the growth of your team members throughout the process.

Here are some examples which you can use for your cover letter:

• If you were the team lead for a sales team and you saw sales increase in one quarter 6%, highlight those results in your cover letter.
• If you introduced new software which allowed your team to better collaborate on projects, as well as introducing everyone to that software, mention the percentage of people that adopted the software into their regular, everyday work.

Promote Hard Skills for a Transfer

When you're moving laterally within a company, moving from one department to another, you should consider highlighting hard skills that you've learned in your current position, which are transferable to another department.

Transferring is typical within the IT industry, and many of the skills you gain in one position can be transferred to another department.

For example, if you were working in the IT field and you wanted to get to the cyber security field, there are a lot of skills that you may have gained along the way which could be promoted in a cover letter:

• Mention any courses that you've taken throughout your time working in the IT field. Specifically, if you've learned specialized cyber security software, mention the software by name.
• Highlight the role that you may have played in addressing the company's need for greater security of cloud computing programs.

Show Gratitude (It's Not About Me, Me, Me)

In your cover letter, try to give credit to where credit is due. If you're mentioning your current supervisor, highlight the ways in which they have played a major role in making you into the person you are today.

Every single person on this earth can owe their success to a select number of people in their life.

Show gratitude to those that have helped you.

Also, a cover letter is written to a specific person, and therefore, shows some gratitude to the person who is reading the cover letter. Thank the hiring manager for taking the time to read through your cover letter. Ask them if they need any more information from you.

If you're interested in learning more about how to end your cover letter, check out this article on how to end your cover letter .

• Keep the tone of your cover letter professional by including a properly formatted cover letter header.
• When transferring to a new position in your company, use hard technical skills that you've learned to prove your competency.
• When writing a cover letter for promotion, highlight the soft skills that you've learned, like communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
• Show gratitude to your current manager as well as the hiring manager whose reading the document.

Creating a cover letter from scratch isn’t easy. We totally get it! So why not let us help you? At Enhancv, we have a custom Cover Letter Builder which you can use to create the perfect cover letter for an internal position.

• Cover Letter Guides

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What to include in your cover letter, don't worry, mourinho... enhancv will help you find another club, should you bring a cover letter to an interview, how do i conduct a resume review, when should you include your high school on your resume.

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How to Write an Effective Internal Position Cover Letter and Resume

You have probably spent years working for your organization. You deliver outstanding results, meet company goals, and now you feel it’s time to advance into a different department or ask for a promotion. But how do you go about it? It’s easy to assume that you don’t need to submit an internal position cover letter and resume because your track record already speaks volumes.

However, that isn’t always the case. Whether you’re seeking a promotion or applying for a new departmental position, you must submit a cover letter and an internal position resume. Usually, this application centers on your current role and convinces the hiring manager and managerial staff that you are ready for the position. 

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Keep reading to learn several tips and tricks that will guide you in writing a successful internal position cover letter and resume.

Internal Position Cover Letter Guide

Writing a cover letter for an internal position shouldn’t be as challenging because you already know the company dynamics. You only need to express your interest in the job and explain how you intend to transition into the new role. You can list a few of the significant achievements you have accomplished in your current role.

Why Does Your Internal Position Cover Letter Matter?

An internal cover letter is important because it positions you as a strong candidate for the role. Not every department manager knows your achievements and skills. Writing a cover letter to accompany your resume captures the hiring manager’s attention, giving you an upper hand.

Most people who apply for internal positions are highly qualified and deserving. A cover letter allows you to vouch for yourself and explain why you are the right pick for the job. You can showcase your contribution to the company and explain how your current role shaped you for the new position.

Essential Components of Your Internal Position Cover Letter

Internal position cover letters follow the same cover letter format as universal cover letters . However, the letter’s contents will focus more on your current position and not previous job opportunities. Here are the most significant components of an internal position cover letter.

• Contact information. You will include your contact information and the company’s information. In addition, you will add the date of your application. Your information allows the recruiters to give you feedback and the date proves that you submitted your application before the deadline.
• Salutation. You will address the letter to the hiring manager using their name. Luckily, because it is an internal job posting, you can find the hiring manager’s name. Using the official name makes the letter more personable and captures attention.
• Two or three body paragraphs. Start by expressing interest in the open position and highlighting your qualifications. The next paragraph covers how your capabilities align with the job opening. Include hard data to prove your achievements at the company. Finally, explain how you have grown in your current position and how your skills will contribute to your success in the new role.
• Conclusion. This paragraph concludes the letter by expressing gratitude to the hiring manager and prompting them to consider you for the next step of the hiring process. It should be about two to three sentences in length and conclude with a handwritten signature and formal closing, such as “kind regards” or “sincerely.”

5 Tips for Writing a Strong Internal Position Cover Letter

There are hundreds of tips when it comes to writing cover letters. However, writing an internal position cover letter requires more attention and knowledge of the company culture and products. Here are the five top tips to implement in your cover letter.

• Be professional. You may be a seasoned employee, but that doesn’t mean you can rely on your relationships at the company to get ahead. Don’t randomly throw in your boss’s name unless you’re using them for a recommendation. Write a formal letter like you would for an external position.
• Use insider knowledge. As an employee, you already know about the organization. Tailor your achievements to match what the company is looking for in a candidate. Highlight specific contributions and explain why they make you the right fit for the job opening. You can use figures and measurable outcomes to emphasize your point.
• Keep it short. Cover letters should be brief and to the point. Typically, your cover letter should be around 250-350 words, which is under one page. Only focus on meaningful information to make your cover letter captivating. Your resume will contain additional information.
• Speak highly of your boss. Always show gratitude and explain that your boss played a crucial role in preparing you for the new position. Keep in mind, the chances of the hiring managers reaching out to your boss for confirmation on your work are very high.
• Proofread your work. Don’t ever submit your job application before proofreading. Proofreading helps you correct grammatical errors and edit out unnecessary information. Your hiring manager will appreciate a well-crafted cover letter.

Internal Position Cover Letter Example

Now that you’re aware of the components and tips for writing a professional cover letter, you can go ahead and draft a few examples. But if you also need a practical example, here is a sample cover letter for an internal position.

Internal Position Cover Letter Sample

123 Street St., New York, NY

(123) 456 7890

[email protected]

November 20, 2021

Madeleine Woods

XYZ Creatives

321 Manhattan, New York

Dear Ms. Woods,

I am writing to formally express my interest in the Digital Marketing Manager position in the Sales and Marketing Department. I was ecstatic to learn about the role as it allowed me to showcase my leadership skills and long-term experience in digital marketing. I am currently working in the same department as an assistant sales manager.

When I joined XYZ Creatives in 2017 as a Sales Associate, my goal was to learn and contribute to the department and organization at large. Since then, I have gained extensive experience in online sales, digital marketing, and management. I have also risen to become an assistant sales manager, working under the most supportive department head.

My digital marketing expertise led to a 32 percent client growth and improved client satisfaction ratings. In addition, I joined a digital marketing bootcamp in 2020 to learn about analytical marketing skills, digital marketing tools, improving client loyalty online and in person, and more. I can use my knowledge and experience in the sales department to ensure client satisfaction and lay a firm foundation for the long-term success of digital marketing campaigns at XYZ Creatives.

I have attached my resume, which features all my notable achievements and skills. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss further the Digital Marketing Manager position and how to move XYZ Creatives forward. I appreciate your consideration and look forward to hearing from you,

Internal Position Resume Guide

Although you submitted your resume when applying for your current role, you still need to write a new one for the internal position. Remember, you have made more strides in your career path and achieved new goals along the way, so you should update your resume to reflect those accomplishments. Keep reading for tips on how to write a winning resume .

Why Does Your Internal Position Cover Letter and Resume Matter?

An internal position resume allows you to add the new achievements and skills that you developed while in your current position. For example, you may have attended a coding bootcamp or contributed severally to the success of various company initiatives. Adding these achievements to your resume makes you a strong contender for the position.

Whether you’re seeking an opportunity for a promotion or applying for a new position, hiring managers always expect a fresh resume. An official application process places you in the same position as external candidates, meaning all your application materials are necessary.

"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"

Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot

Furthermore, internal resumes allow you to use specific client names, programs, and initiatives that the hiring manager is familiar with. You can include reviews from your colleagues and department manager to prove that you are the ideal candidate. A specific and detailed resume will demonstrate how you’ve made an impact on the company since you were first hired.

Essential Components of Your Internal Position Resume

Unlike typical resumes, resumes for an internal position focus more on your career paths within the company. All you’re doing is adding to an already submitted resume while focusing on relevant achievements, skills, and goals. However, you need to write a new one and include these essential components.

• Contact information: The header features your full name and contact information. You will include your phone number, physical address, email address, and professional profile, such as LinkedIn. This section also allows you to upgrade your information if you have moved within the employment period.
• Professional summary. You must write a new professional summary to demonstrate your growth within the company. This section features your career objectives and an overview of your professional life within the organization.
• Work experience. In an internal resume, this section focuses on your duties and achievements within the company. However, if your previous experience from a different employer is relevant to the position, it is essential to add that to your resume. Alternatively, if you don’t have extensive experience working for the company, you can also rely on previous experience.
• Education. Your education history is significant because it helps the hiring manager determine whether you’re the right candidate for the role. Add relevant education history to this section.
• Skills. This section is where you get to brag a little and showcase your skills. Note down previous skills and all the skills you learned as an employee of the company. These can include technical skills and soft skills that are relevant to the position.
• Additional sections. These sections include the hobbies and interests you picked up, courses, awards, certifications, memberships, and other relevant information. These sections are not mandatory, but they can help boost your resume and place you ahead of other internal candidates.

5 Tips for Writing a Strong Internal Position Resume

Your resume can make or break your application. Generally, hiring managers go through hundreds of resumes, and many lack the patience to understand a poorly written resume. Here are five essential tips to guide you in writing your internal position resume to avoid such instances.

• Write a new resume. When writing a resume for an internal position, it is advisable to write an entirely new resume instead of editing your previous resume. You will need to add new skills, achievements, and promotions. In addition, writing a new resume shows that you are serious about the job application.
• Change your professional summary. Altering your summary is important because, over the years, your career aspirations and goals will change. You will achieve your career objectives and develop new ones, making your previous professional summary irrelevant. In addition, your professional summary must align with the target position.
• Use keywords. Hiring managers seek the services of resume scanning software to select the best resumes. These scanners detect specific keywords set by the managers and separate the resumes accordingly. To ensure your resume is prioritized, go through the job description and include relevant keywords within your application.
• Focus on your internal achievements. Demonstrate your accomplishments as a hard-working employee, team player, and leader. If the hiring manager is impressed by your hard work and commitment as a loyal employee, you will likely become the best candidate for promotion.
• Adapt the company language. As an employee, you already understand the company culture. That means you can use company language in certain sections of your resume. For example, if your employer is focused on client satisfaction and mentoring as the key company goals, ensure you strategically add these words to your resume.

Internal Position Resume Examples

If you have a hard time drafting the perfect internal position resume, you can use resume builders, which feature templates and resume samples. We have also outlined two resume examples to guide you during the writing process. One focuses on the skills section and the second one features a full resume template for internal positions.

Internal Position Resume Sample: The Skills Section

While the specific skills included in this section may vary based on the keywords mentioned in the job description, below are some of the typical qualifications professionals tend to have within their documentation.

• Data analysis, content creation, SEO, and CRM, which are requisite skills in digital marketing
• Excellent sales skills to enhance client growth and loyalty
•   Adept leadership skills demonstrated through timely deliveries in the sales department
• Interpersonal skills to maintain solid client relationships and the marketing team
• Project management skills to facilitate professional development opportunities
• Knowledge of Semrush, Google Analytics, Hubspot, WASK, and Act-On

Sample Internal Position Resume Template

Phone Number, Email Address

LinkedIn Profile

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Write a captivating summary that will capture the reader’s attention. In 2-3 sentences, express a bit of your personality, experience level, achievements within the company, and career objectives.

WORK EXPERIENCE

List your work experience using bullet points and in chronological order. Remember to include all your promotions (if any) and responsibilities. You can also list your key achievements below each role.

Company, City, State

Dates Employed

• List responsibilities

Key Achievements

• List relevant achievements

List your education starting with the highest degree. If you advanced your education after receiving employment, state that clearly in this section. You don’t have to add high school information if you have a university degree.

List all the relevant skills using bullet points. Remember to tailor these skills to match the job opening. You can refer to the section above.

CERTIFICATIONS AND AWARDS

List all your certifications and awards. You can skip this section if you don’t have any certifications or awards.

Internal Position Resume Template Resources

• Microsoft . Microsoft offers different resume templates for internal company promotions and transfers. They are downloadable word documents that you can tailor to suit your application.
• Template.net . This site features several resume templates for different career fields. You will find internal position templates for sales managers, audit directors, communication managers, and more.
• Indeed . This popular job search platform also offers resources on writing a strong resume. There are templates, tips, and examples for writing your internal position resume. 

Importance of an Internal Position Cover Letter and Resume

An internal position cover letter and resume are essential for the organization and employees. These application materials make the process more credible because all internal candidates follow the same application process. In addition, you have the opportunity to showcase your demonstratable success and contributions to the company.

Internal Position Cover Letter and Resume FAQ

Your cover letter should focus inward, highlighting your contributions to the current company. You will include measurable outcomes of your work and the relevant experience that makes you the ideal candidate for the position.

Yes. A resume is mandatory when applying for an internal promotion or transfer. Writing a fresh resume allows you to include any relevant achievements, skills, and education certificates you attained after your employment. These additions make a significant difference in your job application.

An internal position cover letter is less detailed compared to a resume. Your cover letter offers a brief introduction of your interest in the position and why you are the right candidate. It also highlights significant achievements and skills, whereas a resume gives a more detailed overview of your work experience and broader career plans.

The best way to apply for an internal position is to submit a well-crafted cover letter and resume, expressing your interest in the position. Leverage your skills, achievements, and contribution to the company to prove that you are the right fit. Once your application is submitted, you can send a follow-up a few days or weeks later, depending on the feedback timeframe.

About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication .

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How To Write A Cover Letter For An Internal Position Or Promotion (with Examples)

• Cover Letter Examples
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• General Cover Letter Templates
• Career Change Cover Letter
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Find a Job You Really Want In

When you find a position you’re interested in, you’ll likely still need to apply just like everyone else, which means you shouldn’t neglect your cover letter. This is why knowing how to write a cover letter for an internal position is important.

Whether you’re going for an internal position or a promotion, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll go over how to write a cover letter for an internal position or promotion, provide a sample cover letter, and give you some tips to keep in mind when writing yours.

Key Takeaways

When writing a cover letter for promotion, you should put just as much effort into it as you would when applying to an external position — don’t assume you’ll automatically get any favor just because you already work at the company.

Be specific about why you’re the right candidate for this role and how you’d help the company by working in that new capacity.

Your cover letter for internal promotion should only be one page long, so include only the necessary details.

How to write a cover letter for an internal position or promotion

Cover letter example for an internal position or promotion, cover letter for an internal position or promotion template, tips for writing a promotion or internal cover letter, how an internal cover letter differs from a standard cover letter, cover letter for internal position faq.

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In order to craft a stand-out cover letter that will stand out among the pile of other applications, it will be crucial to understand the specific elements that should be included. Those include (in order of appearance):

Date and contact formation. This should include your contact information and the date of submission.

Be sure to also include the employer, hiring manager , or recruiter’s name (whoever will be reading the cover letter) and professional information.

Opening paragraph. Explain how your current role prepared you for the new position. Include information regarding the specific role and department that you’re applying for.

Body paragraph. This should be a detailed (but brief) explanation of your current role, previous experience, and notable achievements at your employer’s company. Be sure to highlight both “hard skills” (technical skills) as well as “soft skills” (interpersonal communication skills).

Closing paragraph. This paragraph should show your expression of gratitude to your employer for your previous experience with the company up to this point, and for the opportunity to be considered for the role you’re now applying for.

You can also include information regarding how the recipient – i.e., the hiring manager or your employer – can get in touch with a trusted referral (be sure to confirm with that referral beforehand that he or she is willing to have their information included in your cover letter).

Closing and sign off. End with an appropriate closing and your signature if you’ll be handing in a physical copy of the cover letter.

Keeping in mind all of the themes that we’ve already outlined above, here’s a cover letter sample for an internal position or promotion:

August 10, 2023 Marissa Swarts Human Resources Manager Swarts & Sons Enterprises [email protected] Dear Mrs. Swarts, I’m excited to submit my candidacy for the role of Content Strategist in the company’s Marketing department. I began my employment with Swarts amp; Sons in August 2018 as an Assistant Copywriter. I have spent the last two years honing and broadening my abilities and learning a great deal from my managers within the department. I believe that the job requirements of the Content Strategist role that you’ve outlined on the company website match the skill set I have developed during my tenure with the company. I’ve contributed to a wide range of valuable projects for the company. Beginning in February of 2019, I spearheaded the new blog strategy which has become the primary format for blog post drafting and publishing across the entire Marketing department. Additionally, I helped launch a department-wide training program on basic SEO practices in May 2019. This program has boosted our company’s website traffic by as much as 25%. If you’re interested in learning more about my experience and accomplishments within the company, I encourage you to reach out to my supervisor , Edwin James ([email protected]). I have worked closely with Mr. James over the course of the last two years, and he would be glad to answer any questions that you might have about my suitability for the Content Strategist role. Thank you very much for your time and for the opportunity to be considered for this position. It’s been a great privilege working with Swarts amp; Sons, and I look forward to continuing to grow within the company. Sincerely, Andy Axelrod

Here is a template to help you get started on your cover letter. Be sure you tailor it to your specific needs before sending it to your hiring manager or recuiter.

August 10, 2023 Dear, Mr. Smith, I am writing to express my strong interest in the [position name] within [department name], as advertised on the company’s internal job posting. Having been part of the [current department name] team for [years on the team], I am excited to have the opportunity to contribute my skills to a new role that aligns closely with my career aspirations and the goals of the company. Throughout my time with [company name], I have consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to the company’s success, such as [mention specific achievements, projects, or initiatives you’ve been involved with]. In my current position as [current position title], I have developed a foundation in [mention specific skills, responsibilities, or accomplishments], which I believe puts me in a position for success in [position you’re applying for]. I am particularly excited about [mention specific aspects that intrigue you]. This opportunity aligns perfectly with my long-term career goals, and I am eager to contribute to [department name]’s success. Thank you for your consideration. I welcome the chance to discuss how my experience and enthusiasm align with [position name] in more detail at [your contact information]. Please find my resume attached for your review. Sincerely, [your name]

You should never assume that you will get the position just because you have experience within the company. You should also stick to a professional format when writing your letter. Here are some more tips to keep in mind when writing your cover letter for a promotion or an internal position:

Don’t assume. Don’t expect that you’ll be chosen solely on the basis of the fact that you have experience within the company you’re applying to. If you’re keenly interested in a job opening, there’s a very good chance that a large number of other internal (as well as external) applicants are too. Make the effort to put your best foot forward with a polished application and cover letter.

Be truthfully self-promoting. By drafting and submitting a high-quality cover letter, you have a golden opportunity to communicate the specific reasons why you’re the ideal candidate for the role in a way that doesn’t sound braggy. Talk about your skills and accomplishments without stretching the truth but also without being self-deprecatingly modest.

Don’t take your cover letter lightly. In many cases, it (along with resumes ) will be a key factor in a hiring manager’s decision regarding which applicants are qualified to advance to the interview stage .

Stick to a classic, professional format. Adhering closely to a tried-and-true cover letter template (like the one we’ve outlined above) will help you to create a cover letter that will grab the eye of any hiring manager without making them work too hard to figure out how your letter is laid out.

Remember brevity is important. Hiring managers and HR employees tend to be very busy people, and it’s one of their job requirements to review dozens (and sometimes hundreds) of job requirements.

Don’t lie. You should never lie on your cover letter or resume, but this is especially important for a cover letter for an internal position or promotion.

Now, it’s important to understand from the outset that the process of drafting a cover letter for an internal position or promotion will differ in some important respects from that of a cover letter that’s submitted by an external applicant.

Cover letter for internal position. In the case of a cover letter for an internal position or promotion, the hiring manager will very likely already be (at least somewhat) familiar with the applicant’s background and experience, which makes it very important for the applicant to record details as truthfully as possible.

Standard cover letter. In the latter case, an employer will be largely unfamiliar with the applicant’s professional profile, so there’s always the chance that the applicant might risk exaggerating (or fabricating) some of the information that’s included. This leads to an understandable wariness in the minds of many hiring managers when they’re reviewing the qualifications of an external candidate.

It’s also important to bear in mind that internal applicants have some significant advantages over external applicants in the review and hiring process. As an internal applicant, you’ll be able to:

Draw on specific contributions that you’ve already made to the company

Include references who are (ideally) trusted acquaintances of the hiring manager

Understand what the company values and use that to your advantage

These factors make it much more likely that your application will be favored – and ultimately selected – during the hiring process.

Do you write a cover letter for an internal position?

Yes, you should write a cover letter when applying for an internal position. Writing a well-crafted cover letter helps distinguish you as a strong candidate for promotion among your competition and allows you to formally apply for the position.

How do I write a cover letter for a promotion?

When writing a cover letter for a promotion, be sure to explain your interest in the job and what your qualifications are for the position. Although your hiring manager may already know your accomplishments and experience, it’s a good idea to reiterate them all in one document to demonstrate your readiness for a new position.

Additionally, you should include your knowledge of the company’s mission, needs, and the growth you have experienced in your current position thus far.

Including these things reminds your employer that you have a history with the company, that you have directly contributed to its success, and that you are invested in its mission and goals.

Craft your cover letter for promotion exactly as you would a regular cover letter, but be sure to add the prior mentioned specifics to demonstrate the value of promoting an internal employee versus hiring an outside candidate.

The first paragraph should begin with a statement of interest regarding the position. Here you can summarize your career goals and any stand-out qualifications or accomplishments.

Your second paragraph should discuss your qualifications and experience in more detail by including figures and data when possible.

Your third paragraph should expand on your improvements in your current job since joining the company. Be sure to tie these to the open position at hand.

Your final paragraph should remind the hiring manager of your interest and include the next step in the hiring process. Don’t forget to express your gratitude before signing off with a formal closing.

How do you start a promotion cover letter?

Start your promotion cover letter by saying, “I would like to formally apply for the [job title] position in the [department].

When you send a cover letter internally, it’s assumed you have discussed the position at hand with your current or new hiring manager.

They may anticipate you applying, so it’s a great idea to articulate that this is simply your formal application when crafting your cover letter.

How long should your cover letter be for an internal position?

Your cover letter should only be one page for an internal position. You should only include the necessary details that pertain to the position that you are applying to. Your cover letter should be one page single-spaced.

Is a cover letter for a promotion necessary?

Yes, a cover letter for a promotion is necessary if the job requires one. You should never assume that you are going to get a promotion just because you work for the company. You should write your cover letter the same way you would if you were applying as an outside candidate. Make sure you are professional in your letter. Just because you work with the hiring manager doesn’t mean you can slack off.

Harvard University – Resumes and Cover Letters

Broad Institute – Cover Letter for a Job

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Kate is a graduate of Brigham Young University, where she completed a degree in Comparative Literature with a minor in Mathematics. She lives in the Pacific Northwest and enjoys hiking and reading.

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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Top Well-Performed Cover Letter for Internal Positions

A cover letter is crucial if your goal is to convince the employer that you are the right person deserving of a promotion. It is the first thing that attracts management attention. This article will give you the answers to every concerning question:

• What is a Cover Letter for Internal Positions?
• How to compose a decent cover letter?
• Which types of cover letters for internal positions prevail today?
• Potent examples of the best cover letters
• Instruction on writing a cover letter for an internal position recommendations

If you don’t wish to risk your job progress, it is recommended to have your cover letter composed by an expert for the best results. With our assistance, your cover letter will be written diligently and skillfully.

What is a Cover Letter for Internal Positions

A cover letter for internal positions is a document in the form of a letter that is sent along with your resume in response to a job offer. When we talk about promotions within a particular company, an employee will be requested to compose a personal cover letter for an internal position. Indeed, today most companies require writing a cover letter when applying for a higher position. Providing cover letter for internal position is optional, but the manager will be pleasantly surprised by your initiative.

Whether your aim is a vertical shift or a lateral transfer, do not neglect to create an internal job cover letter. It helps to stand out among other candidates and interests the recruiter. Telling in detail about all your achievements in the current company, explaining the motivation to work further - all these are necessary to prove you are a person who deserves better.

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Why are Internal Cover Letters a Step Towards a Dream Job?

Sooner or later an employee can face the problem of stagnation and express an interest in the new role, a more decent one. Even though a strong desire is a good driver of motivation, it is not enough to get a promotion.

A cover letter for an internal position is crucial for describing a candidate’s qualifications in a proper way. It usually turns out to be even more important than the resume as it is a concise announcement of your main document.

The Structure of a Cover Letter for an Internal Job

An appropriate cover letter format must include the following blocks:

It is desirable to address the letter to a specific person.

2. The body of a letter

This part of an internal position cover letter consists of two integral elements. The first is a short explanation of your motivation. The second is a statement relating to your personal qualities.

3. Contact information

4. Signature

Do not forget that a cover letter is only an introductory document to the resume. Thus, it should be a concise statement substantiating your professional and personal qualities for the position for which you are applying.

There is nothing worse than a long, novel-like cover letter that makes the HR manager feel tired at the sight of it. An ideal cover letter length is 250-350 words, which is a one-page maximum. Note, that it is recommended that the text is formatted in 12-point font.

Engaging Introduction to a Cover Letter

Your cover letter for an internal job posting should have an interesting beginning. It is crucial to encourage a company manager to read it to the end. There is nothing more boring than using common phrases and patterns found on the internet. This demonstrates an indifferent attitude to the requirements of the employer. Be yourself, try to catch the attention of a person who will consider your position. Show that it is composed specifically for the company in which you see yourself.

Composing a Cover Letter for Promotion

A cover letter is not a universal document, suitable for any situation. For example, a cover letter for internal promotion stands out for its significance as it must include more compelling statements.  Composing  a cover letter for promotion - describe what new skills you are competent in. Prove you are a reliable person, ready to take up more difficult responsibilities.

Creating a Cover Letter for an Internal Job Transfer

If your goal is creating a cover letter for an internal job transfer within the same company, consider the following recommendations. First, emphasize your gratitude for being a part of the team. Second, indicate how passionate you are about promoting your company in the market. And most importantly - describe your technical skills enabling you to work even better after an internal transfer.

Advertise Yourself: Describing Personal Qualifications and Skills

A professional cover letter does not copy your resume at all! The resume contains information about your skills and experience. In turn, an internal applicant cover letter should describe how you can use them to the company’s advantage.

Do not write too much about your character traits. Anyone can write that he is a hardworking, responsible and inventive laborer. It is better to include a list of courses and programs you’ve completed or objectives you’ve managed to meet. A hiring manager will consider your applicable talents first of all.

Signify Your Achievements in the Current Position

Include only the information that is relevant to your desired position. The employer will definitely assess your contributions if you manage to stand out from the crowd.

Note that the information in this part depends on the overall aim of your internal job posting cover letter. For example, if you want to get a promotion, focus on those results that prove you can be a leader and guide the team. If your desire is a lateral transfer, you should emphasize the progress the company achieved due to your technical capabilities.

Express Gratefulness for Considering Your Candidacy

To correctly conclude your cover letter for internal job transfer, think about expressing gratitude in a polite way. As well as at the beginning of your document, it is essential to include a personalized and thoughtful appeal in the final part. Thank the recruiter for accepting your request and reading the cover letter.

The final paragraph should not exceed one or two sentences. Still, it is recommended to include the wishes to land the interview and express readiness to come to the discussion or provide further information.

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Common Types of Cover Letters for an Internal Position

There exist several types of cover letters for internal positions. Let us consider the most common ones:

• Promotional cover letter. In this document, an employee must prove in detail to the employer that he is ready for a higher position.
• Letter of interest for internal position. This document includes information relating to the working background within a large company and motivation to get a transfer.

This list is non-exhaustive as some other types can also be included: a cover letter of gratitude; an inquiry; confirmation; or description.

Sample Cover Letter for Promotion

While using ready-made templates for composing a personal promotional cover letter is sometimes risky, it is better to acquaint yourself with some cover letters for internal promotion examples:

Look at cover letter examples by industry you can find at https://skillhub.com/cover-letter-examples

Email Cover Letter for Internal Position Example

Read a sample cover letter for an internal position and learn how to write a cover letter for an internal position properly.

Recommendations for the Cover Letter for Internal Position Improvement

To create a perfect cover letter for promotion and increase your chances, follow some cover letter tips which have already helped many people get their dream job:

• Do not write about personal qualities that are not related to the job.
• Focus on specifics.
• Demonstrate your knowledge of business etiquette.
• Add emotion and personalize your message.
• Write about responsibility and readiness to learn.
• Strive for brevity.
• Use bulleted lists.
• Be careful with spelling and punctuation.
• Do not ask about work schedule, salary, conditions.

Cover Letter Template for Internal Position

To make the hiring process easy for yourself, make sure your cover letter is composed impeccably. For this purpose, analyze applying for an internal position cover letter sample:

Your Contact Information

The Name of a Hiring Manager

The Name of a Company

1. First paragraph:

A specific statement about the position you apply for and a few key benefits that demonstrate suitability for the position.

2. Second paragraph:

Examples of accomplished and achieved results.

3. Third paragraph:

How you can contribute to the business's mission.

4. Conclusion:

Requesting a meeting and expressing gratitude.

5. Your Signature.

Application of Knowledge in Practice

There is no doubt that reading this article has increased your chances of getting hired. Having all the answers in hand you can start moving forward to creating your perfect cover letter. But how not to forget all the essential information and structure it in the head? Here is a digest of all tips as to what makes a good cover letter:

• An attractive and well-planned cover letter will help you stand out and land an interview.
• The cover letter should show the employer what the company will get from you.
• It is crucial to be attentive to the format of your cover letter, avoid large volumes and be careful with the style.
• Use sample cover letters for internal positions to make sure your document does not contain any errors.

After reading, you are still not sure how to write a cover letter for internal positions and maybe you need a professional content writer help? Try our Skillhub's cover letter writing service . You'll get an adjusted cover letter for your potential job position. In case you a need a perfect resume to stand over other candidates, our executive resume writing service is over there. Our professional experts are always happy to have your back and consult you about career writing !

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How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internal Position

A cover letter can help give you a competitive edge as a candidate, even when you're applying for an internal position.

Whether you are vying for a promotion on your team or angling to move into an entirely different role within your company, writing a cover letter reminding internal stakeholders of your contributions can help secure the support you’ll need to transition into a new position.

What to include in your cover letter

Your internal cover letter will be structurally similar to one you’d write for any job application. It should include an introduction, one or two paragraphs detailing your experience, and a conclusion.

However, you’ll have a few distinct advantages over external applicants because you are already employed within the company. As a current employee, you have first-hand knowledge of the company culture, experience embodying the company values, and access to specific company goals and data that may not be public information. Additionally—and perhaps most crucially—you have direct contacts within your company who can speak to the quality of your work.

Let’s examine how you can infuse your cover letter with each advantage.

Part 1: Introduction

Like a typical cover letter, you’ll want to open it by formally greeting the hiring manager for the position and introducing yourself. However, your introduction should reflect your familiarity with the hiring manager. For example, if you’re writing to your current manager about a promotion, you wouldn’t need to introduce the position you already have.

Instead, use your introduction to position how you envision your journey within the company. Set yourself up to tell the story of your growth throughout your time with the company so far and into the future, and align your narrative with company culture and values.

Tip: Because you are already working within the company, you can likely find an opportunity to personally connect with the hiring manager for this position before you introduce yourself in your cover letter. Whether it’s your current manager or another team lead, preview your interest in this new role before submitting your cover letter. Request a meeting or an informational interview with the hiring manager to better understand their needs and further tailor your cover letter.

Part 2: Relevant experience

In the body of your letter, highlight how your efforts have directly impacted key company results. Recall the goals and metrics that your organization’s leaders have pointed to as measures of success throughout your time with the company, and connect those to your responsibilities and contributions.

There are three main points to include in the body of your letter:

Share your accomplishments as they relate to larger company goals, using data to support your claims as much as possible.

Demonstrate growth throughout your time with the company, pointing to role expansions or added responsibilities.

Express how you hope to help continue company progress in this new role, specifically establishing how you’ll use your skills to fulfill the department’s needs to achieve greater company goals.

With these three points, you can establish the narrative of your growth from when you started at the company to the present.

Part 3: Closing

As with any cover letter, conclude by restating your request for consideration and asking for the next steps you hope to achieve.

If you haven’t been in direct contact with the person you’re submitting this letter to, you can also include an invitation to contact a reference within the company who can speak to the quality of your work, such as your direct manager. Alternatively, you can ask your reference to proactively reach out to the hiring manager on your behalf, letting them know to expect your application and that they support it.

Cover letter for internal position example

To help you think about your internal cover letter, here is an example:

Dear Ms. Moore,

Thank you for discussing your team's open project manager position with me. I’ve enjoyed watching your team’s collaborative approach from my viewpoint as an executive assistant this past year. I am excited about the potential to merge my administrative experience with the forward-moving project management perspective here at Company A.

As the Executive Assistant to Mr. Curtis, Chief Marketing Officer, I’ve had the opportunity to support logistics on key launches, such as our national commercial campaign for Product X. After zero missed deadlines, consistent and clear communication, and a successful launch, I was able to continue that momentum by coordinating with our social media team on Instagram and Facebook campaigns. The social media campaigns amplified our reach to a global market and resulted in a 20 per cent increase in website traffic on the days of the posts and a 50 per cent increase in Product X sales.

Throughout my time at Company A, I’ve enjoyed working with various internal and external stakeholders and witnessing the impact of our organized collaborative approach. This experience has inspired me to earn a Professional Certificate in Project Management from Google.

I would love to continue growing in the project management role on your team. If you have any questions about my work, Mr. Curtis will affirm my commitment to the company. Otherwise, I look forward to hearing about the next steps from you in the process.

Orly Sanchez

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What Should You Include in Your Cover Letter? [w/ Tips for 2024]

You’ve spent weeks job hunting, and you’ve found the perfect job.

Your resume is all set, and you’re almost ready to send your application.

There’s just one thing left—you’re writing a cover letter to create a flawless job application.

The only issue? You're not sure what exactly to include in your cover letter.

There’s no need to worry! We’re here to help

In this article, we’re going to cover:

• What Is a Cover Letter
• What Elements Should Your Cover Letter Include
• What You Shouldn’t Include in Your Cover Letter

Let’s get started.

What is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a document that you send as part of your job application, along with your resume or CV .

The cover letter’s purpose is to introduce you and briefly summarize why your professional background makes you the right person for the job.

On average, a cover letter should be between 250 and 400 words long and fit neatly on one page.

A cover letter is one of your first forms of communication with a hiring manager. It’s your opportunity to present yourself in your own words, stand out from other candidates, and get the hiring manager interested in learning more about you.

Let’s take a look at an example of what a cover letter looks like:

Why Do Cover Letters Matter?

After you’ve spent so long making the perfect resume , you might be wondering why you should even write a cover letter.

The truth is that while not all employers request a cover letter, you should always include one with your job application.

Adding a cover letter to your job application shows the hiring manager you’re willing to go the extra mile for the job, and you’re not just randomly applying and hoping your application sticks.

A cover letter is your opportunity to give the hiring manager more information about you as a candidate. This is your chance to personalize your application and provide additional information on your skills and experiences that align with what the employer is looking for and that you didn’t have space on your resume for.

But your cover letter is also your chance to go beyond your most important skills and experience. You can use it to talk about your passion for the industry or your enthusiasm to join this specific company’s team and show the hiring manager that you’re serious about the role.

If your cover letter is good, it can complement your resume and get you that much closer to an interview.

A badly written cover letter, on the other hand, could undermine even the best resume and lead to your application getting tossed in the ‘no’ pile, so it’s crucial to get this document right.

Need help preparing for an interview? Check out our guide to the most common interview questions and how to answer them!

What Elements Should You Include in a Cover Letter?

There are a few key elements you need to include to write a successful cover letter .

Let’s take a look at them one by one:

#1. A Professional Template

Your cover letter should be easy on the eyes and even easier to navigate.

This means you have to set the right page margins, adjust the line spacing, choose an appropriate font , and set it to the correct size, all while making sure your text never spills onto page two.

But what if there’s an easier way? 

Just use one of our cover letter templates instead.

Our free resume builder comes with built-in resume templates that you can match with a cover letter template for a stylish application.

You can automatically set your font style, size, and even the dimensions of the paper you intend to print it on - standard A4 or US letter format.

#2. Neatly-Split Paragraphs

A cover letter should be easy to navigate at a glance.

If your cover letter is a huge chunk of text that fully covers the entire page, without paragraphs or ample white space, it’s going to look cramped and leave a bad impression on the hiring manager.

This is where your cover letter’s formatting comes in. You should divide the contents of your cover letter into a header with contact information, and then split the actual text into an opening paragraph, a main body, a conclusion, and a formal closing line.

Be sure to also use line breaks and bullet points to break up your paragraphs to increase your cover letter’s readability.

This can make it seem less of an overwhelming read to the hiring manager and easier for them to skim through it all to find what they’re looking for.

#3. The Date of Writing

The exact date you write your cover letter may seem like a small detail, but it can actually add an extra touch of professionalism to your job application.

This can help the hiring manager keep track of when you’ve applied for the role, and it reflects your attention to detail .

Just keep in mind that the format of the date should align with the standard in the country where you're applying. For example, in the US , the mm-dd-yyyy format (e.g., May 22, 2024 ) is the go-to, whereas most other countries prefer the dd-mm-yyyy format (e.g., 22 January 2024 ).

#4. Your Interest in the Company

It’s important to tailor your cover letter for the specific job you’re applying for to show the hiring manager that you’re a serious candidate who’s done their homework about the position.

This is why the body of your letter should always include a paragraph where you clearly explain why you’re interested in the specific company.

Start by doing some research on the employer . You have to show the hiring manager that you understand what makes the company unique and how you align with their values and needs.

Think about what you genuinely like about the company you’re applying for. Whether it’s their remote working conditions, their focus on diversity or sustainability, or something else entirely, be sure to mention it in your cover letter.

If you’ve used a product or service that the company provides, say so in your cover letter. On top of that, highlight what specific aspects of the company resonate with your career goals , such as their innovative methods or cutting-edge market strategy, that you want to be a part of.

You can also take the time to explain why you’re excited about the job itself. Talk about how your unique experience and skills make you a suitable candidate and how you’re confident you can contribute to the company’s goals.

Looking to write a cover letter for an internship ? Check out our detailed guide!

#5. A Call to Action

Every cover letter should end with a strategic call to action.

Your call to action can be a polite statement prompting the hiring manager to get in touch with you to go over your application or to discuss how you could contribute to their team.

Adding a call to action at the end of your cover letter shows that you’re proactive and eager to move forward with the hiring process. This highlights your enthusiasm for the role and makes it more likely for the hiring manager to get in touch with you after putting down your cover letter.

Here’s an example of a call to action at the end of a cover letter :

I am very enthusiastic about the opportunity to discuss how my artwork can contribute to Happy Hippo Book Publisher’s track record as the best children’s storybook provider on the market. Please feel free to contact me at the provided phone number so that we can discuss my application further.

Want to give your cover letter an extra kick? Use these tried and tested cover letter tips !

What Sections Should You Include in a Cover Letter?

When writing your cover letter, you can easily split the process into several key sections.

Let’s break them down:

• Header with contact details. The top of your cover letter should include a designated header where you can input your contact information, such as your full name, email address, phone number, address, and links to any relevant social media. Make sure these details match your resume and double-check for any typos.
• Company details. Do your research so you know exactly who to address your cover letter to. Add the hiring manager’s name, department, the company’s name, and the company’s address.
• Personalized greeting. Skip the cliche and impersonal “To Whom It May Concern” and use a more memorable greeting instead. We recommend using “Ms.” or “Mr.” followed by the hiring manager’s last name.
• Opening paragraph. Your cover letter should start with a brief and attention-grabbing paragraph . This should include a couple of your top skills, an impressive achievement, or a relevant qualification.
• Main body. Take the time to explain some of your top achievements or skills in more detail, and cover anything you didn’t have the space to address in your resume.
• Conclusion. Recap the main points in your cover letter so far, then wrap it up with a polite call to action.
• Closing line. Choose an appropriate closing line to finish your cover letter with and sign your name underneath.

What Should You Never Include in a Cover Letter?

A cover letter allows you to personalize your application and provide more details about you to the hiring manager.

But that doesn’t mean everything should make the cut.

Let’s look at what you should never include in your cover letter:

#1. Irrelevant information

Your cover letter should be concise and focus on the most relevant details that make you the right candidate for the job.

Hiring managers don’t have all day to spend on your application, and when they’re reading your cover letter, they want to get to the point quickly. If your cover letter includes too many personal anecdotes or irrelevant experiences, like how you worked as a dog walker at 15, they might get bored and stop reading it altogether.

A cover letter is, first and foremost, a professional document, not a personal essay. This means that focusing too much on yourself, as well as your wants, needs, and opinions, is not a good idea.

Your cover letter should focus on what you can do for the employer, not what they can do for you. If you miss the mark here, you’ll come off as an inattentive candidate and won’t be getting an interview.

#2. Overly Long Paragraphs

A dense, difficult-to-read text can discourage a hiring manager from going through your cover letter.

For example, if the body of your cover letter is contained in a single, thick paragraph, the hiring manager might skim over it and miss your main points.

Long paragraphs can also make your cover letter look poorly organized and make you come across as someone with bad written communication skills . Your essential qualifications and skills can get lost in that sea of words and hide the most important information you want to convey.

Overly long paragraphs also imply a lack of consideration for the hiring manager’s time. Keeping your text concise and easy to follow is just as important as the content itself. Otherwise, your cover letter might not catch the hiring manager’s attention at all.

#3. Salary Expectations

Unless the employer specifically asks you to, it’s considered taboo to include salary expectations in your cover letter, and it can even leave a bad impression on the hiring manager.

Talking about money in your cover letter can make it seem like your primary interest in the job is the paycheck. And, while there’s nothing wrong with wanting a specific salary, this can seriously undermine what you want to convey to the hiring manager about your enthusiasm for joining the company and your professionalism.

You should also keep in mind that talking about salary expectations so early on can even put you at a disadvantage in potential salary negotiations . If you mention a high number too early on, the hiring manager might reject your application before you even make it past the initial screening. But if you go too low, you could undervalue yourself.

This is why it’s recommended that you discuss salary expectations during an interview once you already understand the full scope of the role and have more context.

Are you just getting started on the job market? Check out our guide to writing an entry-level cover letter !

#4. Excessive Flattery

Writing a cover letter doesn’t mean writing a love letter to the company you’re applying for.

You don’t need to shower the employer with compliments to get the hiring manager to like you. In fact, if you use too many compliments or describe the company in the exact words they use on its website, you’re going to be severely disappointed.

For example, most companies you apply to may describe themselves as “innovative” or “ team-focused .” If that’s all you can say about them in your cover letter, it tells the hiring manager that you never researched the employer or paid much attention to what they do.

If you genuinely hold the company’s values, mission, or culture close to your heart, there’s no harm in mentioning how they inspire you. Just remember to keep it professional and related to how you can enthusiastically contribute to their work.

#5. False Information

This should go without saying but lying on your cover letter is just as bad as lying on your resume – very bad.

We get it; you want to impress the hiring manager. But exaggerating or falsifying information to make yourself look like the coolest candidate ever can easily backfire.

On one hand, the hiring manager is probably going to catch onto you while reading your cover letter. They’re going to notice the inconsistencies you didn’t pay attention to, and they simply won’t call you.

But it could be even worse. You could land an interview, only to have the hiring manager discover the truth face to face. Your professional reputation could suffer some serious damage, beyond just an awkward interaction during the interview.

Trust us – lying isn’t worth it. You’re capable of writing a standout cover letter without exaggerating anything you can’t back up.

#6. Grammatical Mistakes

You should always proofread your cover letter before submitting it with your job application.

Even when you’re absolutely sure there are no mistakes, sometimes you might miss something that the hiring manager will notice immediately.

This is why we always recommend you do several rounds of proofreading and editing before finalizing your job application.

Start by carefully reading your cover letter out loud. It might sound a little weird, but it helps you notice any awkward phrases or words that are out of place.

Then, run it through a spell-checking tool like QuillBot or Grammarly . They can help you spot any errors you might have missed.

Finally, ask a friend or family member for help. A fresh pair of eyes can read your cover letter and notice mistakes that both you and your robot sidekick might have skipped over.

#7. Complaints About Employers

As a general rule, you should never badmouth your previous place of employment.

If you were unjustly fired or passed over for a promotion for personal reasons, these are best explained during an interview.

It’s important to always maintain professionalism when your past employer or coworkers are brought up, especially in your cover letter.

For example, instead of saying you had enough of a chaotic work environment, you could say you’re “looking forward to joining a team that values structure and accountability.”

Check out these more common cover letter mistakes and keep an eye out while writing your cover letter!

29 Cover Letter Examples

Looking for inspiration? Check out these perfect cover letter examples for different professions.

#1. Customer Service Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a customer service cover letter here.

#2. Marketing Executive Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a marketing executive cover letter here.

#3. Medical Assistant Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a medical assistant cover letter here.

#4. Consultant Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a consultant cover letter here.

#5. College Student Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a college student cover letter here.

#6. Retail Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a retail cover letter here.

#7. Team Leader Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a team leader cover letter here.

#8. Actor Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing an actor cover letter here.

#9. Digital Marketing Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a digital marketing cover letter here.

#10. Executive Assistant Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing an executive assistant cover letter here.

#11. Finance Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a finance cover letter here.

#12. Graphic Designer Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a graphic designer cover letter here.

#13. IT Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing an IT cover letter here.

#14. Project Manager Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a project manager cover letter here.

#15. Sales Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a sales cover letter here.

#16. Accounting Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing an accounting cover letter here.

#17. Business Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a business cover letter here.

#18. Dental Assistant Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a dental assistant cover letter here.

#19. Human Resources Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a human resources cover letter here.

#20. Nurse Practitioner Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a nurse practitioner cover letter here.

#21. Receptionist Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a receptionist cover letter here.

#22. Architect Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing an architect cover letter here.

#23. Management Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a management cover letter here.

#24. Physician Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a physician cover letter here.

#25. Substitute Teacher Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a substitute teacher cover letter here.

#26. Software Engineer Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a software engineer cover letter here.

#27. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing an administrative assistant cover letter here.

#28. Mechanical Engineering Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a mechanical engineering cover letter here.

#29. Attorney Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing an attorney cover letter here.

FAQs About What to Include in a Cover Letter

Do you still have some questions about what to include in a cover letter? Check out the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions on the topic!

#1. What is a good example of a cover letter?

There are plenty of great cover letter examples for different professions that you can look at.

Overall, a cover letter that’s well done starts with your contact information in a designated header at the top. Next, you have to add the hiring manager’s contact details and include a personalized greeting.

Write a strong opening paragraph that references the job you're applying for and includes a standout achievement or relevant experience that makes you a strong candidate.

Use the body of your cover letter to expand on your key skills and experiences that match what the employer is looking for. Give specific examples to illustrate your greatest accomplishments and how you gained your most impressive skills.

Wrap up your cover letter by recapping your key selling points and including a call to action that invites the hiring manager to reach out to you. Lastly, add a professional closing line and sign your name underneath.

#2. How do you start a cover letter?

The opening to your cover letter should be brief and attention-grabbing.

Your first few sentences should be something that makes the hiring manager want to learn more about you. You don’t want to give them too many details—just enough to pique their interest.

Explain why you’re writing and why you’re interested in the specific role. We recommend including keywords from the job ad , especially ones that match your most relevant skills, experiences, or impressive achievements.

#3. How do you write a unique cover letter?

Your cover letter is your chance to give the hiring manager a unique insight into you as a candidate. It’s your opportunity to stand out from the crowd using your own words.

The best way to write a unique cover letter is to start by researching the company and referencing anything you find attention-grabbing about it. You should be able to easily identify what you like about the specific employer, such as their contributions to the industry, their values, and reputation, and mention it in your cover letter.

Use a polite but conversational tone to convey both your professionalism and personality. Instead of using passive language to explain that you “managed” this or were “responsible for” that, take advantage of action verbs and power words to make your experiences stand out.

Avoid using generic phrases like how you’re a “team player” or have “ leadership skills ” alone, and instead provide concrete examples that back up the skills and experience that make you the right candidate for the job.

#4. Should a cover letter be fancy?

Since a cover letter is a formal document, you might be tempted to make it fancy.

There’s no need to go over the top with your cover letter. Adding too much decoration or creative flair can detract from the information you want to convey to the hiring manager.

Your focus should always be on writing a clear, concise, and well-organized text that gets your point across.

More traditional industries, like law or finance, should stick to minimalistic cover letter templates with a clean and simple layout.

For professionals aiming for creative industries like illustration or graphic design, a bit of color can make your application pop. Even then, it’s important to strike a balance between creativity and professionalism, so your cover letter’s text remains the hiring manager’s primary focus.

Key Takeaways

And that’s all there is to what you should include in your cover letter!

Hopefully, after reaching the end of our article, you feel confident that your cover letter covers all the necessary bases. Good luck on your job hunt!

But before we say goodbye, let’s briefly recap what we've covered so far:

• Your cover letter should be concise and avoid any irrelevant information. The hiring manager is interested in what you can do for the company, not in any personal information that doesn’t relate to the job.
• Overly long paragraphs and a messy layout can leave a bad impression. Instead of trying to format everything yourself, use an online cover letter builder.
• Our online resume builder offers resume templates and matching cover letter templates that you can use to create a stylish and professional job application in minutes.
• Dedicate a portion of your cover letter’s main body to express your genuine interest in the company and the specific role. Do some research beforehand so you can identify several things you genuinely like about the company and position you’re applying for.
• End your cover letter with a strategic call to action. This shows the hiring manager you’re eager to make it to the next step of the hiring process, and it makes it more likely for them to reach out to you.

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How to Write a Letter of Application with Examples

Write a compelling letter of application with our step-by-step guide and job-specific examples that improve your chances of being considered for your desired job.

As seen in:

Are you embarking on the journey of job hunting? A letter of application can help you go the distance in your job search!

Often synonymous with a cover letter , this invaluable document is your introduction to potential employers. It’s not just a piece of paper; it’s your narrative, your first handshake in the professional realm.

In this article, we’ll provide clear steps, expert tips and job-specific letter of application examples to help you write a compelling cover letter — your key to unlocking fantastic professional opportunities. Ready to make your words work wonders? Let’s dive in!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Letter of application example

How to write a letter of application.

• Formatting tips for a letter of application

Job-specific application letter examples

Do’s and don’ts for your letter of application, key takeaways.

First, this is how a letter of application should look like. You can use this example of an application letter as a starting point for your own.

Build my cover letter

There are so many job applications, yet so little time. We understand that writing new application letters for each role can be time-consuming, so we created our Cover Letter Builder ! By typing your job title and answering simple questions, our builder can generate a personalized application letter in minutes.

You can write a compelling letter of application that has recruiters calling you for an interview by following a few easy steps and some not-so-secret tips and tricks.

Before you dive into writing, let’s start with a crucial step:

Research the company you’re applying to.

It sounds redundant, but a big part of your letter of application is showing recruiters you’re genuinely excited about the role.

Doing some homework to browse the company website or LinkedIn will help you identify a pattern of values that create the company’s “ corporate culture .”

Many companies will also publicly share awards they’ve won or projects they’re embarking on. With this information, you can write an application letter showing recruiters you know what the company is working toward.

You can even demonstrate you’re ready to hit the ground running if you get the job by sharing ideas or potential solutions that align with the company’s goals.

Structure your header correctly.

Now that you have some background on what the company is looking for in a candidate, you can begin writing your letter of application.

The first section of your application is the header or letterhead. Formatting your letterhead in a business-letter style is crucial for professionalism. Ensure your header includes your contact information and the date, aligning with conventional business letter formats.

Application letterhead template

[Your Name] [City, State, ZIP Code] [Your Email Address] [Your Phone Number]

[Today’s Date]

[Recipient’s Name, Job Title] [Company Name] [Company’s Address] [City, State and ZIP Code]

Good example:

Alyssa Guadigino Newark, New Jersey 07106 [email protected] 555-555-5555

February 18, 2024

Carla Rivera, HR Manager Turin & Co., LLC 77 E 4th St New York, NY 10014

Bad Example:

Alyssa Guadigino [email protected] 555-555-5555

Greet the hiring manager.

When addressing your letter, strive to find the hiring manager’s name since this personalizes your letter and shows your attention to detail.

However, if the hiring manager’s name is unavailable, what can you do to address a cover letter without a name ?

The best option is to use a generic but appropriate greeting, such as “Dear Hiring Manager” or “To the Growth Marketing Department.”

Dear Ms. Johnson,

Bad example:

To whom it may concern,

Grab recruiters’ attention in the opening paragraph.

The opening paragraph is your chance to show recruiters those essential qualifications that make you a desirable candidate.

Highlight essential soft skills , mention required qualifications or even add a bit of personal branding to make a memorable first impression.

As an enthusiastic and adaptable marketing coordinator with six years of experience and a passion for fostering collaborative environments, I bring a unique blend of creativity and strategic thinking to your team at XYZ Corporation.

I am writing to express my interest in the position at your company. I am a hard worker and a fast learner.

A weak opening paragraph is vague and sparse. In contrast, a solid opening paragraph features the skills and qualifications the employer seeks in a candidate.

Looking for more examples and tips for nailing this part of your application letter? Check out our in-depth guide on How to Write the First Paragraph of Your Cover Letter .

Share your best qualifications in the body paragraph.

In the body of your letter, you have a golden opportunity to present a compelling case for why you are the ideal candidate for the position.

The body paragraph is the most flexible section of your letter of application because you can employ different approaches.

If you’re an applicant with a lot of relevant experience, you can focus on sharing more relevant quantifiable achievements that showcase your expertise.

Suppose you’re a job seeker with little to no experience. In that case, you should use the letter of application to target potential concerns an employer may have, such as being a recent graduate, having an employment gap or changing careers . You must face these limitations head-on and quickly pivot to the qualifications you can offer the employer, especially transferable skills from previous experiences that you can employ in the role.

Check out these body paragraph examples to identify what works and what doesn’t:

With four years in accounting, I excel in financial analysis, reporting and strategic decision-making. In my current role, I streamlined expense tracking, reducing reconciliation times by 30%, which enhaced accuracy and enabled timely decision-making. Proficient in QuickBooks and Excel, I bring efficiency, precision and a proven track record of process improvement to elevate Enco Accounting’s financial operations.

I’ve done various tasks and used different accounting software as an accountant. I’m good at financial analysis and reporting. I hope to bring my skills to your company.

Notice how the bad example looks like the applicant wrote the basics and didn’t put much effort into personalizing it for the job? In a good example, the applicant does the opposite; they choose their skills carefully and provide many details to communicate their achievements to employers effectively.

Finish your letter by encouraging next steps.

Conclude your letter by expressing eagerness for the next steps. Use a compelling closing paragraph that leaves a positive impression.

I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to ABC Company’s continued success and would welcome the chance to discuss in an interview how my skills align with your needs. Thank you for considering my application.

Thanks for reading, and I hope to hear from you soon.

A strong closing paragraph is direct yet polite and invites the reader to reach out to you with the next steps for interviewing. You can even include a summary of your primary qualifications if you’ve written a longer letter; just ensure you don’t repeat the same things.

For additional inspiration, you can explore 8 Brilliant Cover Letter Closing Paragraphs & Conclusion Examples .

Formatting tips for a great letter of application

Crafting an impressive letter of application extends beyond the content — it’s equally vital to present it professionally. Follow these essential formatting tips to ensure your letter not only captures attention but also reflects your attention to detail:

Length matters.

Mind the line spacing., choose an appropriate font., be consistent with text alignment., pick an appropriate file format and name., use an ats-friendly template..

Customer Service Representative

Assistant Manager

Administrative Assistant

Sales Representative

Software Engineer

Project Manager

Registered Nurse

Internship Student

Operations Manager

Medical Assistant

Don’t use a one-size-fits-all approach.

Tailor your letter for each job application. A generic letter won’t showcase your genuine interest in the role, nor will it pinpoint the critical skills and qualifications the employer wants to see.

Don’t focus solely on your needs.

While expressing your career goals is essential to your application letter, remember to emphasize what you bring to the table. Shift the focus from what the job can do for you to how you can contribute to the company.

Don’t repeat what’s on your resume.

Your letter is an opportunity to delve into specific experiences and achievements. Avoid duplicating your resume; instead, offer insights into your career progression.

Don’t exaggerate or falsify information.

Honesty is key. Exaggerating or providing false information can jeopardize your credibility and harm your chances of securing the position.

Don’t overuse jargon.

While industry-specific language is essential, avoid overloading your letter with jargon. Aim for clarity to ensure your message resonates with a broad audience of recruiters.

Do follow application guidelines.

Adhere to the specified format, submission method or additional requirements outlined in the job posting. Even a fantastic cover letter won’t help if you don’t follow the employer’s application instructions to a T.

Do keep your letter to the point.

Be concise and efficient with your letter of application. Hiring managers appreciate brevity, so focus on key achievements and qualifications to maintain their interest from start to finish.

Do proofread your letter.

Typos and grammatical errors are big red flags for recruiters. Before submitting, thoroughly proofread your letter to ensure clarity, accuracy and an error-free presentation.

• Tailor your approach and avoid a one-size-fits-all approach. Customize each letter to the specific job and company.
• Demonstrate genuine excitement about the role and align your values with the company’s culture.
• Emphasize transferable skills and achievements that are relevant to the job you’re applying for.
• Address employment gaps and career changes transparently, showcasing how these experiences contribute to your versatility.
• Provide specific examples and quantifiable achievements that showcase the real impact of your efforts.
• Adhere to essential formatting tips, including keeping your letter of application one page long, using a 1.15-1.5 line spacing, a professional font and consistent text alignment.
• Craft a letter that will pass applicant tracking systems (ATS) by avoiding complex formatting.
• Steer clear of common mistakes like focusing solely on your needs, repeating resume content, exaggerating information and overusing jargon in your application letter.
• Follow the application guidelines specified in the job posting to showcase your ability to follow instructions.
• Maintain a concise and focused letter, ensuring it captures the reader’s interest without unnecessary details.
• Avoid typos and grammatical errors by thoroughly proofreading your letter before submission.

What is a letter of application? Is it the same as a cover letter?

A letter of application is a document you submit alongside your resume when applying for a particular job. An application letter lets you introduce yourself professionally to employers and compel them to hire you by showcasing your qualifications. A letter of application is the same as a cover letter. This document goes by many names, such as motivation or presentation letters.

Why do you need a letter of application?

You need a letter of application if you want to be a competitive candidate and have the potential to land the job. A resume will show employers you possess all the job requirements, but a cover letter showcases more intangible qualities such as passion, motivation, work ethic and career progression.

Can you use the same letter of application for multiple jobs?

Technically, you shouldn’t. If you wanted to use the same letter of application for multiple jobs, you’d end up submitting a generic application letter. Although you might think a generic letter is “good enough,” it can severely hurt your hiring chances. Recruiters don’t want to read a letter not tailored to the employer’s unique needs.

How do I write a letter of application that stands out?

Besides tailoring the content of your letter of application to fit a specific job’s requirements, you can add a few other things to make your letter stand out. For example, use keywords from the job description, showcase how you’ve grown throughout your career or communicate ideas you’re eager to implement in the new role.

What should I avoid writing in an application letter?

Some topics you should avoid writing about in your application letter are:

• Personal issues regarding health or finances.
• Salary expectations (unless expressly required in the job application).
• Negative opinions about previous employers.
• Irrelevant hobbies or interests.

How do you format a letter of application in email?

When formatting a letter of application in an email, here are a few steps you should take:

• Write a subject line that mentions the role you are applying for. For example: Application for [Job Title] Position – [Your Full Name].
• Start with a professional salutation. If you have the recipient’s name, use it (e.g., “Dear Mr. Smith”) or “Dear Hiring Manager” if the name is unknown.
• Begin the application letter’s content with a brief introduction expressing your interest in the position. Mention where you found the job posting and any mutual connections if you have them.
• Keep your letter concise, typically within three to four paragraphs. Address your qualifications and critical skills relevant to the job.
• Finalize the letter with a strong closing statement expressing your eagerness to discuss your application further.
• Include a professional closing (e.g., “Sincerely,” “Best Regards”) followed by your full name.
• Bonus: If you include attachments, mention them in the email. Example: “Attached, please find my resume and cover letter for your consideration.”

What is a letter of interest for a job application?

A letter of interest, or a letter of inquiry, is a document you send to a prospective employer to express your interest in working for their organization, even if they have yet to advertise a specific job opening. This letter serves as a way to introduce yourself, highlight your qualifications and inquire about potential job opportunities within the company.

See more on our FAQ page

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Cover Letter Formats: Tips for 2024

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About the Author

Gabriela Hernandez • CPRW, Career Advice Expert

Gabriela Hernandez is one of LiveCareer's resident writers. She graduated from the University of Puerto Rico with a degree in Journalism. Throughout her career, she has tackled copywriting, blog articles, journalistic writing, academic writing, resume writing, and even prose and verse.

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