does your cover letter have to match your resume

How To Match Your Cover Letter With Your Resume [With Examples]

A well-crafted cover letter and resume are essential for a successful job application, and understanding how these two documents should complement each other can significantly improve your chances of landing an interview. Creating a cohesive application package not only demonstrates your professionalism but also helps you stand out in a competitive job market. In this article, we'll explore:

• The importance of a cohesive application package
• The role of the cover letter in the application process
• The role of the resume in the application process
• Common concerns and questions job seekers have about the relationship between cover letters and resumes
• An overview of the topics covered in the article

Design and Format Consistency

Ensuring your cover letter and resume have a consistent design and format is crucial for presenting a professional, visually appealing application package. A consistent design helps create a sense of control, familiarity, and reliability, as noted in this CareerFoundry article .

To achieve a cohesive design:

• Choose a clean, easy-to-read layout: A well-organized layout makes it easier for hiring managers to quickly scan your documents and find relevant information.
• Use the same font and font size across both documents: Consistency in typography creates a visually harmonious package and demonstrates attention to detail.
• Align color schemes and design elements: Using a coordinated color palette and incorporating similar design elements, such as lines or icons, can make your application appear more polished.
• Consider the impact of consistent design on the reader's perception: A well-designed application package conveys professionalism and can leave a lasting positive impression on the hiring manager.

Showcasing Your Personality

Your cover letter should highlight your unique personality and qualities that are not evident in your resume, setting you apart from other applicants. A resume focuses on your skills and professional experience, which may not convey your character and personal attributes. On the other hand, your cover letter provides an opportunity to showcase your communication style, voice, and relevant personal experiences.

For example:

After completing my degree in environmental science, I spent a year volunteering with a local conservation group to protect our community's natural habitats. This experience deepened my passion for protecting the environment and inspired me to pursue a career in sustainability.

By sharing your passion and enthusiasm for the role, you can demonstrate your genuine interest in the position and create a memorable impression on the hiring manager.

Addressing Red Flags

Your cover letter can serve as a valuable tool for addressing potential concerns or red flags in your resume, providing additional context and explanation. Common resume red flags may include employment gaps, frequent job changes, or unconventional career paths. When addressing these concerns in your cover letter:

• Be honest and transparent about your situation.
• Explain any personal or professional growth that resulted from these experiences.
• Provide context for your career choices and demonstrate how they have contributed to your skill set.

For instance:

While my resume may show a gap in employment, I took that time to care for an ill family member. This experience taught me invaluable skills in time management, empathy, and resilience, which I believe will make me a stronger candidate for this position.

Customizing for the Specific Job Position

Customizing your cover letter for the specific job position and company you are applying for is essential for demonstrating your fit for the role and your genuine interest in the company. To tailor your cover letter:

• Research the company and job position: Familiarize yourself with the company's values, mission, and goals, as well as the skills and qualifications required for the role.
• Identify key skills and qualifications required for the role: As mentioned in this Indeed article , analyze your skill set and match it with the job requirements.
• Address these requirements in your cover letter: Explain how your experience and skills make you an ideal candidate for the position.
• Use company-specific language and terminology: This demonstrates your familiarity with the company and its industry.

Avoid using generic templates and create a customized cover letter for each application to show that you have taken the time to research and understand the specific job opportunity.

Connecting with the Company

Your cover letter should demonstrate your understanding of the company's values, mission, and goals, and how your skills and experience align with these factors. To establish a genuine connection with the company:

• Research the company's values, mission, and goals: Use resources like the company's website, press releases, and social media accounts to gather information.
• Identify your own values and goals that align with the company: Reflect on your personal and professional aspirations and how they relate to the company's mission.
• Demonstrate how your experience and skills will contribute to the company's success: Explain how your background will add value to the organization.
• Express enthusiasm for the company's products or services: Show your genuine interest in what the company does and how it aligns with your passions.

Examples Of How To Match Your Resume With Your Cover Letter

When crafting your job application materials, it's crucial to ensure your cover letter and resume complement each other. They should serve as two parts of a whole, providing a complete and compelling portrait of your skills, experiences, and professional history. Here are a few ways to match your resume with your cover letter effectively:

1. Tailored Skills Highlighting:

In your resume, you've listed down your technical and soft skills, such as team management, Python programming, or business analytics. When you write your cover letter, refer back to these skills and give concrete examples. If your resume states, "Proficient in Python," your cover letter might include a story of how you used Python to streamline a business process, boosting efficiency by 30%.

2. Reinforcing Achievements:

Your cover letter is a chance to flesh out the notable achievements listed in your resume. For instance, if your resume states, "Increased sales by 20% over a fiscal year," your cover letter could detail how you motivated the team, developed a sales strategy, and persevered through market challenges to achieve this.

3. Echoing the Professional Summary:

Your resume's professional summary is a snapshot of your career. In your cover letter, you can echo this summary in a narrative form. For example, if your summary describes you as a "Dedicated financial analyst with a passion for data-driven strategies," you might begin your cover letter with a story that shows this passion in action.

4. Expanding on Key Experiences:

A resume often contains bullet points about job duties and responsibilities. In your cover letter, select a few of these key experiences and describe them in more depth. If your resume says, "Managed a team of 10 sales associates," your cover letter might tell a story about a challenging time when your leadership skills really made a difference.

5. Mirroring Language and Tone:

Your resume and cover letter should not only share content but also style. If your resume is written in a formal, professional tone, maintain this in your cover letter. If your resume uses specific industry jargon or phrases from the job listing, mirror this language in your cover letter.

Remember, while your cover letter and resume should complement each other, they shouldn't be carbon copies. The cover letter allows you to show a bit more of your personality and to highlight your suitability for the role in a story-like format. In contrast, your resume offers a structured, concise overview of your skills, experiences, and achievements. By thoughtfully aligning these two documents, you can present a powerful and consistent professional brand.

Final Tips and Best Practices

By following some final tips and best practices, you can ensure your cover letter and resume are cohesive, professional, and compelling:

• Proofread and edit both documents for grammar, spelling, and formatting errors.
• Seek feedback from trusted friends, mentors, or professional resume services.
• Utilize online resources and templates to guide your cover letter and resume creation, such as Harvard College's guide or HigherEdJobs' resources .
• Continuously update and improve your application materials as you gain experience and skills.
• Stay informed about industry trends and expectations for job applications.

By understanding how your cover letter and resume should complement each other and following the strategies outlined in this article, you can create a polished, professional application package that stands out to potential employers. Investing time and effort in crafting cohesive application materials can significantly improve your chances of landing an interview and advancing your career. We encourage you to continue refining your cover letter and resume skills and wish you success in your job search. If you have any additional tips or experiences with matching cover letters and resumes, please share them with us!

Should Your Cover Letter and Resume Templates Match?

Your Cover Letter and Resume Should Match

How to pick the best cover letter and resume template, cover letter and resume templates and examples, frequently asked questions: cover letter and resume examples and advice.

Writing a matching cover letter to complement your resume can go a long way in strengthening your job application. This is an opportunity to provide unique insights into your brand that may not always fit on a resume.

If you’re sending your cover letter as an attachment, this is a good way to create consistency across both documents. On the other hand, sending your cover letter in the body of an email can sometimes be advantageous to maximize visibility. This guide provides expert tips to help you find the ideal format and approach according to your career goals and individual needs.

A well-written cover letter should complement your resume in style and content. Be sure all of these elements match when you create your cover letter and resume together:

• Font and font size
• Layout, including margins and paragraph spacing
• Contact information

An easy way to make sure your cover letter and resume match is to use the same template for both documents.

Selecting a properly structured template for both types of documents is key. Below, we’ll provide insights to help you pick the best cover letter and resume template for your unique situation.

1. Prioritize structure and readability

When applying for a job, put your qualifications, experience, and achievements front and center. Although resumes and cover letters adhere to different structures, your template should have a format that facilitates both. This means avoiding formats that feature multiple columns or unwieldy headers. Use a simple, basic template that employs a single-column, top-down approach to create a smooth reading experience for the hiring manager.

2. Avoid flashy colors and graphics

You can select an aesthetically pleasing resume template, but be tactful in balancing visual appeal with content organization. Employing flashy colors and graphics can sometimes distract the reader from your professional experience and achievements, so choose a format that won’t overwhelm your qualifications. Avoid photograph templates so you don’t invite bias or potential HR issues.

3. Choose a simple, elegant font

Choosing the right font is incredibly important when selecting your cover letter and resume template. If a hiring manager is struggling to read your documents because your font is too small or hard on the eyes, they won’t be able to engage with your content fully.

Avoid generic and overly decorative fonts such as Futura, Courier, or Comic Sans. Use a sleek, elegant, and easy-to-read font, such as Cambria, Garamond, or Calibri. For font size, opt for 11 points in most instances. This ensures your content is readable without taking up too much page space.

4. Use proper spacing and formatting

Proper spacing and formatting are crucial for any cover letter and resume template.

If your template lacks sufficient white space, your content may appear like an impenetrable wall of text. On the other hand, too much white space may cause your document to look barren or padded. Single spacing is typically recommended for cover letters. Also, have three to four lines of space between your salutation and your opening paragraph.

5. What is the ideal length for a cover letter and resume?

A cover letter should never exceed two pages, but the same can’t be said for the resume. The ideal length for your resume is entirely contingent on your years of experience and individual career goals. If you’ve spent 10 years in the technology industry and can’t list your achievements, don’t restrict yourself to a single page. But if you’re at the entry level or making a career transition, a one-page document is more appropriate. This keeps the focus of your resume on your most relevant qualifications, education, and experience.

• Resume Template and Example #1
• Cover Letter Template and Example #1

Samantha Taylor (123) 456-7890 [email protected] 123 Your Street, San Francisco, CA 12345

A senior user experience (UX) designer with over 10 years of experience, specializing in UX research, design systems, UI prototyping, and user-centered design. A proven track record of managing UX teams to develop design solutions for an unparalleled UX. Adept at leading all aspects of the creative process and collaborating with C-level stakeholders.

Professional Experience

Senior UX Designer, Employee Software Inc., San Francisco, CA May 2015 – present

• Manage a team of over 25 UX designers to develop a new user interface (UI) for an HR software application generating $30 million in revenue, which includes coordinating all phases of design, prototyping, and quality assurance testing
• Conduct UX research to develop user stories and customer personas, including identifying design solutions to build a unified customer experience
• Interfaced with C-level executives to review user interviews and provide recommendations on large-scale enhancements to UI design

UX Designer, LinkedIn, San Francisco, CA May 2011 – May 2015

• Coordinated with a team of web developers, application developers, and UX designers to refine the functionality and UX of a leading website for job seekers, resulting in a 15% in user satisfaction surveys
• Developed visual diagrams and wireframes for new pages and created new interactions using design thinking principles
• Provided design support for the UI development of the LinkedIn mobile application, which garnered over 3 million downloads within six months of launch

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) UX Design  University of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA September 2007 – May 2011

• UX research
• UI prototyping
• Project management
• Design systems

Certifications

• NN/g UX Master Certification, 2015
• Google UX Design Professional Certificate, 2011

Samantha Taylor UX Designer | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | 123 Address St., San Francisco, CA 12345

January 1, 2022

Arthur Jones Hiring Manager Peoplesoft (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Jones,

With over 10 years of experience within the UX design industry, I’ve developed an advanced understanding of web development and user-centered design. As a Senior UX Designer at Employee Software Inc., I led the development of a new UI for an HR software application generating $30 million in revenue. I believe my unique approach to UX design would be a valuable asset to your organization.

Peoplesoft’s reputation for thought leadership within the HR software space draws me to apply for the position. My experience as a UX Designer for both Employee Software Inc. and LinkedIn has allowed me to develop an innovative approach to deliver a holistic experience for users that aligns with your organizational needs. I am confident that I can continue to grow your reputation as an industry leader based on the following achievements from my career:

• Managed a team of more than 25 UX designers for Employee Software Inc. and interfaced with stakeholders and C-level executives to recommend large-scale redesigns for the mobile UI
• Improved the UX for LinkedIn’s website in coordination with a team of web developers and UX designers, which improved user satisfaction by 15%
• Drove UI development and conducted wireframing for the launch of LinkedIn’s mobile app, which generated 3 million in downloads over a six-month period

I look forward to speaking with you further regarding how my strong background as a thought leader in UX design can help Peoplesoft deliver a truly unified experience for users. You may contact me via phone and email at your earliest convenience. I appreciate your time and consideration.

Samantha Taylor

• Resume Template and Example #2
• Cover Letter Template and Example #2

Alicia Jones (123) 456-7890 [email protected] 123 Your Street, Los Angeles, CA 12345

A case manager with over 10 years of professional experience, specializing in treatment planning, mental health services, substance abuse issues, and community outreach. A strong history of providing essential resources to clients to facilitate recovery from addiction. Adept at interfacing with diverse populations and building long-term relationships with clients.

Case Manager, Los Angeles Rehabilitation, Los Angeles, CA May 2014 – present

• Oversee more than 150 cases related to substance abuse and alcoholism and partner with multidisciplinary teams to identify appropriate treatments based on mental health assessments, background, and addiction
• Serve as a client advocate during treatment and court hearings, interface with state agencies and law enforcement, coordinate treatment plans and patient stays
• Improve positive patient outcomes by 30% in coordination with program management teams by implementing new clinical approaches to substance abuse treatment

Case Manager, San Jose Rehab Facility, San Jose, CA May 2011 – May 2014

• Managed over 60 cases of substance addiction involving narcotics and alcohol, created documentation of patient history and medical records, and identified community resources for treatment and rehabilitation
• Enhanced case management procedures and improved communication across the facility by leading the development and implementation of standardized case review processes

Master of Science (M.S.) Social Work University of Los Angeles, Los Angeles September 2014 – May 2016

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Social Work University of Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA September 2007 – May 2011

• Case management
• Substance abuse
• Treatment planning
• Organizational leadership
• Client relations
• Certified Advanced Social Work Case Manager (C-ASWCM), Awarded 2015
• Certified Social Work Case Manager (C-SWCM), Awarded 2013

Alicia Jones Case Manager | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | 123 Address St., Los Angeles, CA

Mark Roberts Hiring Manager Suncoast Health (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Roberts,

As you can see from my attached resume, I have over 10 years of experience serving as an advocate for patients suffering from substance abuse and mental health issues. During my time as a case manager at Los Angeles Rehabilitation, I oversaw more than 150 cases related to alcoholism, gambling addiction, and drug abuse. I believe that my ability to foster positive community relationships will allow me to contribute to the fast-paced clinical environment at Suncoast Health.

Your organization’s reputation for achieving positive rehabilitation outcomes is what draws me to apply for the case manager role. I am confident I can help continue to grow this reputation based on the following accomplishments from my career:

• Oversaw all aspects of case management and coordinated with multidisciplinary teams to provide appropriate rehabilitation treatments for substance abuse patients
• Served as an advocate for patients, interfaced with state agencies and legal entities, and built relationships with patients to coordinate stays, resolve payment issues, and ensure quality care
• Identified opportunities to improve case management processes and resolve communication gaps by implementing a standardized weekly case review process

I look forward to speaking with you further about how my case management expertise can aid Suncoast Health in delivering quality patient care. Please contact me via phone or email at your convenience. Thank you for your consideration.

Alicia Jones

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Should I send my cover letter as an email attachment? -

If you’re sending your application directly to the hiring manager, consider including your cover letter in the body of the email. This maximizes the visibility of your cover letter and allows you to provide a strong introduction. You can also opt to provide your cover letter as a separate PDF attachment in addition to the body of the email. Either choice is fine if the information is easily accessible to the hiring manager. 

How do you align your cover letter and resume with a job description? -

Aligning your cover letter and resume with the job description is essential to the job search process. Companies aren’t interested in generic applications that can be sent anywhere; they want to see you’ve customized your documents for their organization. Incorporating key accomplishments that match the posting in both your cover letter and resume will demonstrate that you’re the ideal candidate they’ve been looking for.

When crafting your resume, focus on integrating keywords, qualifications, and experience that align with the job requirements. This will ensure compliance with applicant tracking system (ATS) and show prospective employers you have the qualifications to succeed in the position.

In your cover letter, mention something specific about the organization’s reputation, mission statement, and culture and why this draws you to apply for the role. This will show hiring managers you’re fully engaged and truly interested in the job.

Frank Hackett

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

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Your Quick Guide to Cover Letter Headings

Let’s say you just wrote the best cover letter ever conceived by any mortal being. But no matter how amazing it is, this genius creation is completely and utterly useless if after a hiring manager or recruiter reads it, they can’t reach out and invite you to an interview or find out anything more about you. And hiring managers are busy people, so you want to make that all as easy as possible by including a clear, professional cover letter heading.

Here’s what to include in a cover letter heading, answers to some common questions, a template, and three examples of what your end product should look like.

What should you include in your cover letter heading?

Your cover letter heading should always include your:

• Location : No need to include a street address. City and state alone usually does the trick nowadays. If you’re applying from out of the area (and it’s an in-person role or remote job that requires you to be in specific states, for example) you might add “Relocating to:” or whatever describes your situation so the hiring manager knows you didn’t make a mistake.
• Email address: Keep it professional and don’t use your current work email.
• Phone number: Personal cell or home number, please!

You might also include the following depending on the situation:

• Pronouns : If you’re comfortable sharing.
• LinkedIn URL: If you have a LinkedIn profile (and in most cases you should), add it to your heading so hiring managers can easily learn more about you.
• Other relevant URLs: If you have a personal website or portfolio that’s relevant to the job you’re applying to, go ahead and link it right on your resume. You can also add links to social media profiles if they’re professional and help show you’re qualified for the job.

Traditional business letter formatting dictates that you also include the name and address of the recipient in your heading. Since no one sends cover letters through the mail anymore, you typically don’t need to worry about this. However, Smith says, it “could be relevant if you’re applying to a traditional, formal company.”

Should your cover letter heading match your resume heading?

If you’re submitting your cover letter as an email attachment or uploading it to a job application, “Be sure the cover letter heading matches your resume,” Smith says. That could mean copying the same exact heading or including all the same information if you’d like. But most importantly, make sure there are no discrepancies—for example, the same phone number and email address should appear on both documents. “I’ve seen it all,” Smith says, “and it gets confusing when job seekers include multiple ways to contact them.”

Does your cover letter heading go in the header of the document?

If you’re submitting your cover letter online, chances are both it and your resume will pass through an applicant tracking system (ATS). ATSs are programs used by employers to organize candidates, and while they’re advanced, they’re not perfect. Some ATS software will drop header and footer text when displaying cover letters and resumes to hiring managers. So better to play it safe and put your cover letter header at the top of the main text of the document.

Even if you’re using identical headers between your cover letter and resume in the same document, copy and paste rather than using the header function.

What if you’re sending your cover letter in the body of an email?

If you’re sending your cover letter in the body of an email , an actual heading is unnecessary—and might lead to some confusion on the other side. Instead, Smith recommends that you use the subject line as an opportunity to include your name and the job title you’re applying for upfront, and then “include typical heading info in your email signature,” Smith says. That means sign off with your name, and add your phone number, location, pronouns, and relevant links below that.

Cover letter heading template

If you want a no frills cover letter template, you could copy and paste our template below—we won’t tell anyone. (If your cover letter is going into an email, just paste this at the end rather than the beginning.) Feel free to play with the formatting—for example, by making your name larger, combining some info onto the same lines, adjusting the spacing, or using bold, italics, and—for the links only to avoid confusion—underlines. Just don’t forget to delete any fields you’re not including.

[Full Name] [Pronouns] [City, State] [Email address] [Phone number] [Linkedin URL] | [Personal website, portfolio, or relevant social media profile url]

Cover letter heading examples

Here are a few example cover letter headings:

Thomas Chang he/him Chicago, IL [email protected] 555-555-5555 www.linkedin.com/in/tchang98

Alia Farukh Relocating to: Washington, DC [email protected] | 999-999-9999 | she/her www.linkedin.com/in/art-alia-farukh | alia.art.net

Benjamin Andrew White Phone: 111-111-1111 — Email: [email protected] — Pronouns: he/they LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-andrew-white-writer Portfolio: bennydrewwrites.com — Twitter: @bennydrew

More From Forbes

Cover letter vs resume: here are the key differences.

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As a job seeker you need to be ready with both a resume and a cover letter.

You need both a resume and cover letter in your job search.

Most job applications require a resume right away, and the best resumes are matched to the jobs you are targeting. Some jobs posted on LinkedIn allow you to “Easy Apply” with just your LinkedIn profile (so you should optimize your LinkedIn profile too) but even with these jobs you often have the opportunity to attach a resume in addition to your LinkedIn profile. If your resume has more details (or different details) than your LinkedIn profile, you’ll want your application to include both.

Not every job posting requests or even allows a cover letter, but sometimes it’s required to move forward. Even when it’s optional, submitting a cover letter puts an additional piece of marketing yourself in front of prospective employers, so take that opportunity (and do what you can to maximize the chance that employers will read your cover letter ). The cover letter is not redundant to your resume. Here are the key differences:

1 - Structure of a resume vs cover letter

The most obvious difference is that the cover letter looks different than the resume. The cover letter is a business letter, or even if it’s the shorter, more casual email version, it’s still structured like a letter. On the other hand, the resume is structured like an outline of your career trajectory. Sections include your contact information, a summary of highlights, experience, education and additional information, such as technical skills, volunteer work and interests.

2 - Voice of a resume vs cover letter

Since the cover letter and resume are structured differently, your voice (i.e., how you express yourself) comes across differently with each tool. The resume is written in bullet points, which is sufficient for getting the information across, but not so much your personality. Don’t be cute with your resume in an effort to show your personality – it just looks unprofessional. I once received a resume printed on a page with a banana (yes, the fruit) in the background. The resume header said, “I’m ripening”. Perhaps, the resume writer wanted to different enough to be remembered. I do remember that resume, but not for the right reasons!

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Your personality has more of a chance to shine through in your cover letter. The cover letter is written in prose, so even though it also shares information like the resume, the details unfold in complete sentences – ideally like a story, if you write a compelling cover letter. You are not bound to specific sections like the resume, with experience in one place, education in another, etc. Unlike the resume, you are also not restricted to reverse chronological order. You can decide to group information differently and to jump around in time, depending on what details you want to highlight. The choices you make reflect your voice and message.

3 - How employers use the resume vs cover letter

Given the different ways a cover letter and resume dispense information, employers use these tools differently. Recruiters skim resumes in second, looking at your career chronology – is there a clear progression of increasing responsibility? Are there long employment gaps or short job tenures that need further explanation? Do the skills and experience listed on the resume match what the job requires?

The cover letter showcases your communication skills and style. If the job opening requires writing ability, the cover letter is the first proof point employers see. The cover letter also can highlight things that aren’t obvious from the resume or anticipate and explain potential objections to your candidacy. For example, if you have employment gaps or short job tenures that an employer will see from your resume, you can explain what you accomplished during your unemployed time, or that your short job tenures were because you followed your mentor from job-to-job. If your relevant skills and experience is from school or other non-work activity, your cover letter can highlight these in a way that may get overlooked in the resume.

4 - How you should use your resume vs cover letter

Since the cover letter and resume have such different structures, voice and impact on the employer, you need to differentiate how you are using these tools. Do you thoughtfully choose what to include in your cover letter and not just summarize what’s already in your resume? Does your cover letter highlight the skills and experience that match your dream job? Does your cover letter explain away any red flags from your resume?

Your resume can serve as an audit of your career. Does your experience section show progress over time? Are the results and responsibilities you elaborate on in each job tangible and translatable to the jobs you are targeting? Does your education reflect continuous learning (or are you at least learning new skills on the job)? Is your Summary right at the top of the resume a reflection of your range of experience and expertise, as well as directly relevant to the level and scope of job you want?

A strong resume and cover letter are just one part of your job search kit

You need both a resume and a cover letter. You also need a strong LinkedIn profile, not just for Easy Apply jobs, but also because, when you network during your job search, people will look you up online. Then, since you’ll be networking, you need a strong networking pitch to introduce yourself. If these marketing tools get you in the door, you’ll need strong interviewing skills (e.g., starting strong , not rambling , answering difficult questions ) to land the job.

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Jobscan > Cover Letter Checker | Scan and Optimize Your Cover Letter

Create the Perfect Cover Letter with Jobcan's Cover Letter Checker

Get personalized feedback on how to optimize your cover letter with Jobscan's ATS-friendly cover letter scanner and get more interviews.

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Improve Your Chances of Getting Hired

Stand out from the competition by optimizing your cover letter for the job you want. Jobcan’s cover letter checker analyzes your cover letter and compares it to the job listing to identify the key skills and qualifications that recruiters are looking for.

You’ll get personalized feedback on how to improve your cover letter and make it more compelling to potential employers.

Save Time and Effort

A job search can be time-consuming, and crafting a personalized cover letter for each job listing can be a daunting task. Our cover letter scanner takes only seconds to assess your text and give you detailed notes on how to improve it.

You’ll be able to submit a tailored cover letter with confidence, knowing that it matches the requirements of the job you want.

ATS-Friendly Cover Letters

Many employers use automated systems to screen job applications, so your cover letter needs to be scannable and ATS-friendly. Otherwise, your information might not even reach the recruiter or hiring manager.

Our cover letter scanner checks your cover letter for ATS compatibility, ensuring that these systems can read it and get your application in front of the right people.

How to optimize your cover letter

From your Jobscan dashboard, upload your cover letter file along with your resume into the scanner.

Paste the text of the job listing into the scanner.

The Match Report will give you tailored advice on which skills or experience to mention in your cover letter. You’ll also receive guidelines for effective cover letter writing.

Update your cover letter document, click on the Upload and rescan button, then paste in the updated text of your cover letter. Your Match Rate will update. Continue this process with your resume and cover letter until you reach a match rate of 75% or higher.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are cover letters scanned by ats.

​We’ve encountered some ATS that search for keywords within cover letters. Basically, if an application asks for a cover letter, they’re likely to scan it through ATS.

How do I scan a cover letter with Jobscan?

You can scan a cover letter with the Jobscan Premium plan . After running a resume scan, locate the Cover Letter portal next to the Resume tab in the Match Report. Click “Add Cover Letter and Rescan” to run a cover letter scan.

What's the difference between hard skills, soft skills, and keywords, and why does it matter?

Hard skills are skills learned through training or hands-on experience and include proficiency with specific software, tools, or other specialized skills. Soft skills are skills that don’t necessarily require training, such as “detail oriented” or “team player.”

Hard skills are what recruiters are most likely to be searching for, where soft skills are hard to quantify and are less likely to be searched by a recruiter.

Keywords are words that appear frequently in the job description, but are not currently classified as skills. They’re company “buzzwords” you can incorporate into your resume, cover letter, or during your interview.

“I was tipped off to this service by a career coach and it made a huge impact on the way I was approaching my application process. I was able to spend time tailoring my resume/ cover letter to better match the job description and the scan feature made it a breeze.”

Jennifer H.

“Anyone seriously looking for a job should sign up for this platform and put every single resume and cover letter through here before applying. The return on investment is unlike anything else!”

“I applied for 3 jobs with the same company. The first application without Jobscan was unsuccessful. The other two with Jobscan’s analysis of my resume and cover letters won me interviews as well as a casual position! Extremely happy!”

Jeanette B.

“My secret weapon to help me optimize my resume / cover letter for each job I applied […] Before jobscan would send out 20 resumes and get responses on 1-2, after using Jobscan my response rate went up 300%. Most importantly thanks in large part to Jobscan I just landed my new job at a 25% raise!”

Explore More Features

Cover Letter Vs. Resume: Which Should You Use?

In This Guide:

Cover letter vs resume: what's the difference?

Three major differences between a cover letter and a resume

Resumes and cover letters go hand in hand, 3 expert tips on writing a cover letter vs. a resume, example resume and cover letter.

Applying for a job can be scary; trust us – we know.

But that doesn’t mean it needs to be confusing, too.

However, there’s this one uneasy thought that puzzles job-seekers, especially first-timers.

“Resumes? Cover letters? Aren’t they the same thing? How am I supposed to know what goes where?”

We get that a lot.

So, to help you cut down on confusion and get your job application right, we’re going to talk about cover letters vs resumes and settle on the difference once and for all.

In this guide, you’ll find out:

• What the difference between a resume and a cover letter is;
• What should be included in each document;
• How to make sure your cover letter makes it to the top of the pile.

Let’s dive right in!

Cover letter vs resume: what's the difference?

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So, how are a resume and a cover letter different?

While the purpose of both is to prove to the hiring manager that you have what it takes to get the job, they do so in two very different ways.

Basically, you can consider your resume to be a summary of your work and education experience, while your cover letter focuses on how this experience relates to this specific job.

Have you heard that saying in the beauty community that says your eyebrows should be sisters, not twins?

You can apply that same logic to your cover letter and resume.

These two documents should complement each other, not copy each other exactly.

One big difference we can name right off the bat is that pretty much every employer requires a resume for a job application, but not a cover letter.

However, including one always boosts your chances of success (unless the posting specifies that you shouldn’t send one, of course).

Now then, to really understand what the difference between a cover letter and a resume is, we will take a quick look at what each of them is at its core.

What is a resume? What does a resume include?

In short, a resume summarizes your work experience and educational background.

It’s a detailed account of the jobs you’ve had, the schools you’ve attended and the degrees you got, any awards and certifications you might have, your skills, etc.

Most commonly, a resume is formatted as a list with bullet points. This makes the document easily scannable and eliminates fluff, which is perfect for a busy hiring manager.

Usually, you should write your resume in the third-person and be as clear and concise as possible, using few words and not going into too much unnecessary detail.

TRY ENHANCV TEMPLATES

So, here’s a list of what your resume should include:

• Contact information
• Summary, or objective
• Work experience
• Dates of employment
• Additional information, such as certificates, spoken languages, etc.

But what about cover letters?

What is a cover letter? What does a cover letter include?

A cover letter adds relevant context to your resume.

It highlights what your qualifications are and how they relate to the particular job you’re applying for.

Basically, what a cover letter does is give the employer all the reasons why you are the best candidate for the position.

It shows off your skills and gives examples from your experiences to back them up.

You write a cover letter in a letter format, unsurprisingly. It consists of a greeting, three or four body paragraphs, and a closing. And, as opposed to the resume, you should use the first-person.

When writing your cover letter, keep in mind that employers are likely to refer to your resume to make the connection between the person and the job applicant.

So, seeing how they’re probably going to be reading them at the same time, don’t make your cover letter a carbon copy of your resume.

Rather, it should expand on the points you’ve made in your resume, giving real-life examples that showcase your skills and letting the employer know just how perfect you are for the job.

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But what should you include in your cover letter ?

• Professional heading
• Address section
• Formal salutation
• Show-stopping introduction
• Your reasons for applying for this particular company and position
• Your skills as they relate to the job
• Closing words on your excitement to join the company
• A call to action

Oh, and don’t forget to read the job offer carefully and include some keywords in your letter!

So, now you know what a cover letter and a resume are, and what they should include.

Let’s move on and cover the main differences between the two.

Knowing what each of these documents does is not always enough.

You need to understand how they differ.

So, in this section, we’ll go over three of the most important distinctions between a cover letter and a resume.

Resumes and cover letters differ in importance

We’ll make a wild guess here and say that you probably haven’t come across a position in your job search that didn’t require a resume.

Now, how many postings have you read that didn’t need a cover letter?

Enough to notice, we’re sure.

That’s because resumes and cover letters aren’t equally important.

The internet is rife with information about which one is more important with various arguments supporting both sides.

However, we think that, unless the job posting specifies that a cover letter is not to be submitted, you should absolutely include one in your application.

You can’t skip out on the resume, though.

Cover letters and resumes use different structures

As you may have already noticed, one of the main differences in the “cover letter vs resume” battle is the structure.

A resume is usually one or two pages long and contains specific sections, bullet points, and other graphs used to represent a candidate’s professional skills.

A cover letter, on the other hand, has 3-4 structured paragraphs, an introduction, and a closing paragraph, and is usually no more than 300-500 words.

The goal of a cover letter vs a resume is different

Another crucial difference between the two documents is their purpose.

A resume’s goal is to provide the hiring manager with lots of varying information, but in a brief format – just a page or two.

They’ll use your resume to quickly decide if you’re qualified for a particular job (at least on paper – the proof comes with your cover letter).

The purpose of a cover letter is to let you tell a story about yourself as a person, not just an employee.

It helps you expand on the points you made in your resume and give some much-needed context to the employer.

So, there you have it – these documents are different in many ways, however…

We already mentioned this above, but cover letters and resumes complement each other well, so they should be used accordingly.

While a resume is quickly scannable, a hiring manager might struggle to make sense of all the data you’re throwing at them, especially if your resume is on the longer side.

That’s why a cover letter is a good addition to a resume, as it helps translate that information into paragraphs, making it easier to read and take in.

But that’s not all – a cover letter and a resume, as different as they are, should stick to the same design .

There’s not a single recruiter out there that wants to spend their valuable time trying to match a resume to a cover letter like it’s a puzzle.

Cover letters are also a great way to make sure your resume doesn’t end up in the trash.

Lots of employers read the cover letter first to help them decide if the resume is worth reading at all.

So, boost your chances and type up that cover letter.

Are you struggling to separate your cover letter from your resume, wondering how to make them complementing, yet different, or you just want some tips on how to write a stellar cover letter?

Well, then read on!

We’ve got three pieces of advice for you, coming straight from the professionals.

Don't make your cover letter repetitive

We already said this before, but we’ll say it again – do not make your cover letter an exact copy of your resume!

Nobody wants to read the same thing twice.

You wouldn’t, so why should your employer?

Don’t be afraid to let loose a little bit and use a more conversational tone than you would on your resume.

Your cover letter should show the hiring manager your qualifications, but also your personality and your passion.

Don’t go into too much job or education detail. Mention them briefly and talk about how they shaped you into the perfect candidate and what you learned from the experience.

Keep it short and sweet

You wouldn’t want the recruiter to fall asleep halfway through your cover letter, would you?

So, keep it short, clear, and straight to the point. Leave all the unnecessary details out, talk about relevant experiences only, and most importantly, make it captivating.

As for the specific length, aim for three or four paragraphs and try not to fill more than 3/4 of a page.

Use a subjective tone

A cover letter allows you to talk about things you wouldn’t mention on a resume.

No resume contains a section about how you found the position, how passionate you are about it, or how each skill you’ve mentioned relates to the job.

Yet, these are all important aspects to a hiring manager.

So, you can afford to use more subjective information when writing a cover letter.

Let them know why you are certain you’d make a good fit. After all, you’re the one that knows what you can bring to the table, right?

And there you go – you’re now ready to craft that perfect resume and throw on a stellar cover letter for good measure.

If you’d like a little extra help, take a look at these great resume and cover letter examples .

Hopefully, they’ll help you get on the right track!

BUILD A MATCHING COVER LETTER

And, if you’re looking for an even easier way out, take our resume builder for a spin and save yourself the headache.

Yes, a resume and a cover letter are two separate worlds. But they really are two sides of the same coin.

To summarize, here are the most important differences in the battle of cover letter vs resume:

• A resume is always required for a job application, while a cover letter can be optional.
• Resumes are formatted as a one or two-page document with bullets and sections, while a cover letter uses a letter format and has the standard introduction, 3-4 body paragraphs, and a closing.
• Cover letters are often what helps resumes get read.
• A resume and a cover letter should complement each other, while still being different.
• A resume is written in the third-person and is more objective; a cover letter uses a subjective tone and is written in the first-person.
• Resumes outline your work and educational background, achievements, certificates, and skills. Cover letters focus on how those skills and experiences relate to the job at hand.

Was this information helpful to you? Do you feel ready to tackle your resume and cover letter? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!

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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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5 Simple Steps to Match Your Cover Letter Format and Resume

Cvjury editorial team.

• Modified On August 11, 2024
• 15 minutes read
• Home | Blog | Cover letter | 5 Simple Steps to Match Your Cover Letter...

Do you need a matching resume and cover letter templates to create a great first impression among recruiters and hiring managers? Read on to get our five proven tips.

When looking for a job, you probably tweak your cover letter and resume to match the position you’re applying for.

And what happens when you submit the documents to your hiring manager for review?

You get no invites for interviews. And what could be the reason? Your cover letter and resume don’t match!

Every time you update or write your cover letter and resume, you must ensure that the format, style, and content match.

When the hiring manager reviews the two documents, he should find that your cover letter complements your resume.

You don’t want to have all other outstanding qualifications but fail to secure an interview due to a simple yet crucial task.

If you want your cover letter and resume to match, review both documents and determine whether they align.

First, check whether you’ve used similar font, font size, and layout.

Also, ensure your headings and subheadings are parallel in both documents.

Next, use bolds and italics sparingly to avoid confusion. Finally, ensure the content in your resume and cover letter match.

Don’t include experiences or skills in your cover letter that you didn’t mention in your resume

Matching Resume and Cover Letter Templates: The How-To

Hiring managers will look for ways to distinguish one job seeker from another. 

If several job seekers have outstanding qualifications, employers must get to the details to look for a tiebreaker. 

One of the ways is by checking whether your cover letter complements your resume. 

The cover letter and resume are documents that give the best first impressions that employers can see. 

For them to help you secure a job interview , you should ensure they match in terms of format, layout, and style. 

Matching your cover letter and resume makes it easy for employers to review them side-by-side.

Often, most job seekers make the mistake of writing resumes and cover letters that don’t match. 

They cram too many details that don’t correspond with what’s in their resumes. 

Also, other job seekers use inconsistent fonts, margins, headers, or colors, making their cover letters and resumes appear as if different people wrote them. 

So, how do you write a matching cover letter and resume that tweaks for the job you’re applying for?

While your resume outlines your educational experience, work history, accomplishments, and relevant skills, your cover letter is its commentary. 

It highlights your personality and goals that support the content in your resume. 

Remember, hiring managers have piles of resumes and cover letters to review. 

If your cover letter and resume fail to catch their attention due to an unsuitable format, they’ll be in the bin. 

For this reason, you shouldn’t ignore writing a cover letter and resume that match each other.

Luckily, if you want to know how to format your cover letter and resume, CVJury has got you covered.

We have CV articles explaining the resume and cover letter format that will land you an interview.

However, if you want to learn how to format a cover letter for a resume, our five top tips will get your going. Keep reading for more insights.

Recommended Access

• Free resume builder
• Cover letter builder
• LinkedIn profile builder
• Free resume scanner
• 10 essential skills for your resume

Your cover letter and resume must have a consistent format, style, and content. 

If any information in your resume applies to your cover letter, ensure everything matches. 

Matching your cover letter to your resume makes you look professional and suitable for the job. 

It’s also a significant way of demonstrating the soft skills you’ve highlighted on your resume.

You don’t have to struggle to explain that you’re attentive to detail and can easily follow through. 

With matched resume and cover letter, you prove you’re what you highlight on your documents.

How are Your Resume and Cover Letter Related?

While these documents have different purposes, they work towards one goal; to help you secure an interview and land a dream job.

A resume briefly summarises your educational history, professional experience, relevant skills , and outstanding accomplishments. 

On the other hand, a cover letter will provide detailed information about you and demonstrate your personality. 

In a cover letter, you can further discuss how your hard and soft skills and experiences make you the best candidate for the job.

However, both documents should prove to the hiring managers that you have all it takes to land the job. 

Sending a resume with a cover letter makes you look more professional and eager for the job. 

The information in both documents will market your expertise and make you stand out from other job seekers. 

So, ensure they match the format, style, and content. 

Here are the five tips to help you match your cover letter and resume format.

 Use the Same Font

Your cover letter and resume show professionalism and can dictate whether you’re a serious job seeker. 

When writing a cover letter, you should review the design elements of your resume to ensure you use a consistent font. 

Your resume’s font style and size should be similar to your cover letter’s. 

And you don’t have to use fancy fonts to look smart. 

The idea is to use a font style and size that your potential employer will find impressive, professional, and legible.

We’ve got you covered if you’re wondering which are the best fonts for your cover letter and resume. 

You can opt for the Arial, Calibri, Cambria and Verdana. 

These fonts are ideal and reader-friendly, whether in print or electronically.

In addition, using a similar font size for both the resume and cover letter can go a long way. 

Most hiring managers prefer scheming through cover letters and resumes. 

If you want them to catch your most outstanding abilities, experiences, and talents, you must use a font size that visually appears better. 

For example, you can use 11pt-12pt for your resume and cover letter. 

Using different font sizes for your cover letter and resume will make them inconsistent. 

As a result, your hiring manager might assume you’re not attentive to detail and are unprofessional.

Further Reading

• How to use the best resume format
• Cover letter best tips
• ATS friendly resume best practices
• Strong action verbs for resumes
• 15 high-paying jobs that are great for career changers

Use a Similar Layout

Like font style and size, your resume and cover letter should have a similar layout. 

A good layout adds professional aesthetics to your resume and cover letter. 

And when discussing aesthetics, we don’t mean adding fancy colors and images. 

Employers expect to find resumes and cover letters with black or blue borders regarding colors. 

However, if you use black for your text and borders for your resume, ensure to use the same for your cover letter. 

Also, you should avoid using images and flashy graphics on resumes and cover letters.

While using them may be creative, your resume and cover letter may come off as unprofessional.

Using a similar layout means aligning your margins and line spacing. 

You have heard that cover letters and resumes should be short, not more than two pages. 

In some cases, job seekers try to squeeze all the information they want to make it fit within a page or two pages. 

As a result, they use tiny margins, leaving no white spaces around their cover letters and resumes. 

To avoid this, ensure the margin stays around one or 1.5 inches. 

Also, use single spacing and space out your paragraphs to leave enough white spaces at the top, bottom, left, and right of your resume and cover letter.

If you find it challenging to keep your resume and cover letter in an ideal font and layout, you use the help of our free resume builder and cover letter builder . 

And to establish cohesiveness, use one builder or template maker. 

Luckily, here at CVJury, we have a qualified resume and a cover letter builder to make your work easier. 

With a perfect builder, you’ll ensure the font and layout of your documents match.

Make Sure Headings Are Parallel

The information contained in your headings should remain consistent in your resume and cover letter. 

This will help avoid confusion. Using uniform headers where applicable will make it easier for hiring managers to find the information they seek. 

For example, if you used the header “Objective” in your resume, it should remain the same if you mention it in your cover letter. 

Avoid using other variations such as “Career Objective.”

Similarly, if you write your name as Kevin J. Duncan in your resume, don’t change it to Kevin Duncan or Kevin John Duncan. 

Uniformity on your resume and cover letter will make you appear professional and help the hiring manager conduct a successful online search about you. 

Likewise, you should use the same email address and phone number on your resume and cover letter.

Hiring managers should not guess which contact information to reach out to you. 

The best way to ensure you’ve used the same headings is by double-checking both documents’ names, email addresses, phone numbers, and addresses.

Be Careful with Bold and Italics

It’s OK to use bold and italics when emphasizing words within sentences. 

Perhaps you want to emphasize accomplishments you acquired in your education or professional life.

For example, you can use italics when highlighting Latin honors and awards. 

For example, you can italicize honors like cum laude,   magna cum laude , and  summa cum laude . 

Similarly, you may want to emphasize industry-specific keywords you wish your hiring manager could easily see.

Bolding and italicizing ensure that your prospective recruiter sees the most crucial information in your resume within the first five seconds of staring at your documents. 

To ensure cohesiveness between your resume and cover letter, use bolds and italics sparingly to emphasize words within sentences.

On the other hand, you can bold your job titles and subheadings on your resume. 

Bolding will help separate your titles and subheadings from the regular text. 

This will make reading easy between various sections of your resume. 

So, incorporate bolds and italics where appropriate on your resume and cover letter to make them look uniform and professional.

Match Your Content

Besides matching the appearance of your resume and cover letter, the content must also align.

Before submitting the documents, read them to determine whether they discuss the same things.

If any information in your cover letter doesn’t appear in your resume, your hiring manager will treat your documents with suspicion. 

Your cover letter should highlight your resume’s outstanding experiences, skills, and accomplishments.

However, ensure not to copy everything in your resume and paste it into your cover letter. 

The idea is to include what sells your expertise in the cover letter. 

Also, the same should apply to your cover letter if you use short sentences and paragraphs in your resume.

In addition, if you highlight your skills and accomplishments using bullets, you can pick the most important ones and create a bullet list on your cover letter. 

In other words, a cover letter should bring life and personality to your resume. 

If you want to highlight any outstanding skills or abilities, the cover letter will make it easier for your hiring manager to see them.

Closing Thoughts

A cover letter and resume should be as similar in format/layout as possible to ensure the employer can quickly review both documents. 

Also, the content in both documents should match to avoid confusion and appearing unprofessional. 

If hiring managers use matching resumes and cover letters as a tiebreaker, you can be rest assured to secure an interview. 

Review your resume and cover letter before submitting them to ensure everything is in place and the best order.

However, if you’ve been struggling with creating cover letters, we can help. 

Our professional writers know what it takes to write a compelling cover letter for any industry or job type. 

Get more tips on cover letter writing and try our cover letter builder ! Click on our must-read article on writing a resume like a pro to get more interviews and a job.

• Putting work experience section in CV rightly
• Dealing better with hiring managers
• Putting key achievements examples in your resume
• Tips for resume education section
• How to get an error-free resume

Written By: 

The CVJury Team includes hiring managers, employability consultants, and independent career counselors. Our purpose is to make creating a CV or resume easy. We have 15 years of experience supporting professionals, job seekers, and students worldwide.

Read  our story  and discover how we can help you.

• Posted by CVJury Editorial Team

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• INNOVATION FESTIVAL
• Capital One

08-08-2024 CAREER EVOLUTION

Forget your résumé and cover letter. This is what actually gets you a job

Instead of polishing your résumé, here’s what you should be focusing on to advance your career.

[Photo:/ Olia Danilevich /Pexels]

BY  Stephanie Vozza 4 minute read

Ever do something because you thought it would look good on your résumé? You may have taken a job because you wanted to work at a specific company. Perhaps you agreed to serve on the board of a charitable organization or signed up for a class or pursued a certification. 

While experience is essential, don’t underestimate the impact building relationships can have on your career.

“I’m not saying that résumés don’t have a place and a seat at the table, but they’re in the cheaper seats—more than people have been led to believe,” says Thom Mayer, author of Leadership Is Worthless…But Leading is Priceless: What I Learned from 9/11, the NFL, and Ukraine . “It’s the relationships that matter.” 

Every Relationship Matters

Résumés may provide someone’s background , but they don’t reveal the person behind the titles. You can only understand someone’s character by having a relationship with them. As NFL Players Association medical director, Mayer visits team training camps. He refers to a sign in the Denver Broncos locker room that says, “You can easily judge the character of a man by how he treats those who can do nothing for him.”

“You cannot get out of that locker room without passing through there,” says Mayer. “The quote came from German philosopher Wolfgang Goethe. Coach Gary Kubiak, who was [Broncos] head coach, hung it because it was something his dad used to tell him.”

The quote underscores an important element of relationships: There is no unimportant member of a team, and anyone you come into contact with deserves your attention. This is a philosophy Mayer has held since he was a student and football player in college. Originally a theology major, he switched to pre-med after an advisor suggested that he could have a more significant impact as a doctor instead of a theologian. However, Mayer began to doubt the decision during his first Chemistry 101 test. Not knowing the answers, he filled the boxes with the pattern ABCDE, EDCBA, back and forth. 

A bonus question at the end of the test said, “If you get this question right, you get an A on this test, no matter how well you did on the first 100 questions.” The question was, “What is the name of the man who cleans this room every night so you can have a great place to learn?” Mayer approached the professor and asked, “Do you want his first or last name?”

“He was stunned and said, ‘If you can give me his first name and his last name, I’ll not only give you an A in this test, I’ll give you an A in this course, as long as you show up and work hard,’” says Mayer. “I said, ‘What if I can give his wife’s name and the names and ages of his six children?’ He stood up and he said, ‘Thom, if you can do that, I’ll not only give you an A in this course, I’ll give you an A in every chemistry course you take, as long as you show up and work hard.’” 

Mayer had gotten to know the janitor, Roosevelt Richmond, because he could only get to the chemistry lab after football practice when Richmond started his shift. “When people ask, ‘How did you become a doctor?’ I worked hard, but I became a doctor because I built relationships,” he says.

When Mayer interviews someone for a job, he asks two questions : What is the nurse’s facial expression when they see your name on the schedule? What is the name of the Environmental Services person in charge of your emergency departments? 

“If they can’t handle both of those questions, then I don’t want them taking care of me or my family when they desperately need it,” he says.

Relationships Build Trust 

Relationships also open doors . For example, Mayer says he wasn’t chosen to become the first medical director for the NFL Players Association because he was an accomplished ER doctor. Mayer got the call because of his relationship with Gene Upshaw, then executive director for the NFLPA. He called Mayer after Korey Stringer, an offensive tackle for the Vikings, died of heat stroke during practice in 2001.

“He said, ‘Doc, you’ve got to step up to the plate and become our medical director,’” says Mayer. They’d never had one before. Gene didn’t call me because of my résumé. He could have pulled up a bunch of doctors and looked at their résumés. [Upshaw] called me because we were best friends—because his youngest and my youngest were best friends. He called me because he trusted me .” 

Relationships begin with everyday actions . It’s as simple as greeting people you encounter. Relationships are also cultivated with positive dialogue. For example, instead of walking up to a teammate or employee and saying, “Hey, did you get that assignment done?” Mayer recommends saying, “Hey, how are you doing? Anything I can do to help you?” 

At the end of the day, relationships impact the opportunities you’re offered, the help you get at work, and the way you’re treated by those around you. 

“See how long somebody wants to stay in an environment when it’s all transactional and not about the person behind the transaction,” says Mayer. “When times are hard, you want to know who you can depend on. The type of person you prove that you are, such as being loyal or having integrity, shows up in your relationships.”

Apply to the Most Innovative Companies Awards and be recognized as an organization driving the world forward through innovation. Early-rate deadline: Friday, August 23.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Stephanie Vozza is a freelance writer who covers productivity, careers, and leadership. She's written for Fast Company since 2014 and has penned nearly 1,000 articles for the site’s Work Life vertical   More

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Best Color for Resumes

Like every job applicant, you want to make your resume stand out. As you optimize your application documents, you might wonder, “Should I add color to my resume?” Adding a touch of resume color might just differentiate you from the competition. However, it’s vital that you choose good resume colors. Learn more about putting color on resumes so you can identify the best shades for your application.

Should you add color to your resume?

First impressions matter immensely in job applications. When a hiring manager reviews your resume, the design and color scheme will have an immediate impact on their perception of you. Color psychology plays a vital role here. 

Resume color psychology is the study of how various colors can affect someone’s behavior and mood. This exciting field explores how a colorful resume can influence emotional responses and make certain aspects of your document more memorable. (1)  

Research has shown that colors will influence how readers perceive and interpret the information they are presented with. Different colors evoke various emotions and responses. Color can either help you stand out or make the wrong impression. (2)

Color can be a good addition to your resume. However, it’s important to consider industry norms and trends so you can create an application that aligns with the hiring team’s expectations and preferences. 

Even if color on resumes isn’t the norm in your field, there are still ways to make your application documents stand out. For example, you can add resume icons next to your email address and LinkedIn profile to break up the text. 

Best colors for resumes

When it comes to putting color on resumes, five options stand out as the most versatile and useful. 

Black is timeless and conveys a sense of professionalism and authority. It’s ideal if you are applying for corporate roles or you work in an industry where a formal and traditional appearance is preferred. Black text on a white background makes your documents easy to read. 

However, just because you use black doesn’t mean your resume has to be boring. Use bold headers with a slightly larger font than your body text to make your documents easier to skim through. You can also use borders and other subtle design elements to make your resume look clean and crisp. 

Navy blue is another excellent choice for a resume color. It suggests reliability and trustworthiness. These qualities are highly valued in most professional settings. 

Navy blue can make your resume look polished and serious. Consider weaving the color into your headers and borders. You can also use it to draw attention to key sections of your documents, including your experience and education headers. 

Gray can convey a modern and sophisticated vibe. It exudes neutrality and quiet professionalism. Gray can be a great choice for adding a modern touch to your resume without being overpowering. You might want to use gray if you work in a formal, tradition-minded sector but want to subtly differentiate yourself from other applicants. 

You can use gray in the headings, on the borders, or as an accent color. It pairs well with other colors, including black and navy blue. Don’t use it as your font color, as it may make your resume harder to read. 

White is essential for creating a clean and uncluttered resume. Obviously, you don’t want to use white font or accents, as they will get lost in the paper. However, you shouldn’t try to fill every square inch of your resume with colors and accents either. 

It’s vital to let your application documents breathe. Strategically using white in your resume can highlight key sections and prevent readers from getting lost in overcomplicated designs or huge blocks of text. 

Dark green is best suited for creative fields or industries that value innovation. It suggests growth and stability. Using this color in moderation can make your resume stand out without appearing too flashy. 

Avoid brighter greens, as they can come off as noisy, brash, and unprofessional. Stick with darker options, like forest or hunter green.

Expert Tip:

When incorporating color into your resume, ensure it compliments your overall design and does not distract from the content. Use colors to strategically highlight key sections, such as headings or achievements. Remember that content is the most important aspect of your resume, and colors are simply meant to magnify your text.

Colors to avoid on resumes

You can’t just slap any color on resumes and expect it to go over well with hiring managers. Even if you work in an industry where creative resumes are the norm, there are a few colors you should avoid. 

Bright red is associated with urgency and aggression. While it can attract attention, hiring teams may also perceive the use of red as overly bold or even cocky. It’s best to avoid using bright red altogether, even in small amounts.

Generally, you should avoid any bright or loud colors. If you are going to brighten up your resume, stay away from red and be sparing in your application of color. 

Neon colors

Neon colors are highly vibrant and can make your resume look unprofessional. They can be hard on the eyes and may distract from your text.

Stick to more subdued and professional colors to maintain a polished look. Focus on complementary colors like those discussed in the previous section. 

Pastel colors aren’t in your face like neon or bright red. However, they can make text difficult to read and may come across as too casual. 

If you choose to use pastels, ensure they are used sparingly and with high-contrast text. Make sure your copy is easy to read and that there is plenty of white background between the pastel accents and your text. 

For more do’s and don’ts, check out some resume examples . 

"Research has shown that colors will influence how readers perceive and interpret the information they are presented with."

Tailoring resume colors to industry

Different industries have varying preferences when it comes to resume colors. Tailoring your choices to match industry norms will make your resume more effective. 

For instance, hiring teams expect bright colors on resumes for UX designers . However, more traditional industries like finance or law might prefer a more professional and concise cover letter and resume. Here’s a closer look at three main industries and their color preferences:

• Corporate/Finance: Conservative colors like black, navy, and gray are preferred
• Creative Industries: More flexibility is allowed; dark green, muted tones, or even color combinations may be acceptable
• Tech: Modern and sleek colors like navy or gray are often favored

Keep in mind that these are general rules and don’t apply to every industry or business. Get to know the company you are applying to and adjust your resume to appeal to that hiring team’s sensibilities. 

How to implement colors in your resume

After you’ve identified the best color for resumes in your industry, it’s time to implement your chosen color palette into your application documents. Start by choosing a resume template that can accommodate colors. 

Once you’ve selected the right cover letter and resume templates, use the following tips to strategically integrate color into your documents:

• Use color for headings, borders, and subtle accents
• Ensure text remains readable with high contrast
• Explore examples of well-designed resumes

Check out Jobseeker and our collection of resume and job letter templates . These resources showcase well-designed resumes with tasteful color usage and provide inspiration for your own documents. 

Take care when using color on your resume 

Selecting the right colors for your resume is an important design choice and can help you position yourself as a strong candidate. Thoughtful color choices can also influence the hiring team’s decision-making process and may even make your documents more memorable. However, it’s vital that you do your homework and choose colors consistent with industry norms and hiring manager preferences. 

Need more insights about putting color on resumes? Check out Jobseeker and our library of resume articles . Our resources also include cover letter examples and templates you can use to make your application stand out. 

(1) Very Well Mind: Color Psychology: Does It Affect How You Feel?

(2) Britannica: The Psychology of Colour

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How to Showcase Soft Skills on Your Resume

Find your new job.

Look for your perfect career match with the Jobillico job search!

Make sure hiring managers know you’ll be ready on the first day of work by knowing how to showcase soft skills on your resume.

Soft skills can set you apart from other job candidates. By adding soft skills to your resume, you demonstrate that you can work well with others, remain agile, and contribute positively to the workplace. 

Let’s take a closer look at what soft skills are and why they matter to employers and hiring managers. We’ll also share three ways you can include them on your resume. 

What are soft skills? 

Soft skills are non-technical skills related to how you work, communicate, and interact with others. Soft skills are different from hard skills , which are specific technical abilities required for particular jobs. Some valued soft skills include communication , teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving.

Types of skills you might include on your resume 

• Sound decision-making
• Emotional intelligence
• Stress management 
• Time management
• Interpersonal skills
• Conflict resolution
• Attention to detail
• Problem-solving
• Communication
• Critical thinking
• Active listening 
• Collaboration
• Adaptability
• Negotiation
• Flexibility

Why do soft skills matter on your resume? 

Soft skills matter on your resume because they reveal your personality, work ethic, and team compatibility. Employers value strong soft skills because they foster a positive work culture, better collaboration, and increased productivity. 

Including soft skills on your resume shows recruiters your potential beyond technical abilities.

4 benefits of soft skills in the workplace 

Here are some of the top soft-skill benefits employers value:

1. Empathetic workforce 

Empathy and interpersonal skills help form positive workplace relationships and a supportive organizational culture. 

Empathetic leaders and colleagues create an environment where individuals feel valued, understood, and respected. This fosters trust, collaboration, and psychological safety , supporting teams to thrive and innovate together.

2. Improved collaboration

Teamwork skills and collaboration promote synergy within teams. This encourages camaraderie and shared responsibility. 

It may also enhance creativity, problem-solving, and team performance. 

3. Better communication

Strong soft skills, like communication, reduce misunderstandings, streamline workflows, and help align teams toward common objectives. 

Effective communication cultivates a positive work environment where employees can freely share and exchange ideas.

4. Adaptability 

Employees with soft skills, like problem-solving, can navigate challenges and uncertainties in the workplace. They analyze situations, identify solutions, and adapt quickly to changing circumstances. 

This agility helps teams address complex problems and remain resilient in dynamic environments.

4 ways to showcase soft skills on your resume 

Here’s how to include your soft skills throughout your resume:

1. In your bio 

Include a brief bio or summary statement at the top of your resume highlighting relevant skills for the job you’re applying for. 

For example, if you’re applying for a leadership role, you might write: “Adaptable team leader with excellent communication skills and a knack for problem-solving .”

Or if you’re applying for a product design role, you might write: “Product designer with creative thinking skills and pristine time management.” 

Be sure to also add the following near your bio:

• A professional headshot
• Contact information, such as your email address and phone number 
• Relevant URLs, such as your website address or portfolio URL

2. In job descriptions 

Incorporate soft skills into your job descriptions by highlighting experiences where you demonstrated these abilities. 

Here are some specific examples to help inspire you: 

• “Collaborated effectively with cross-functional teams to achieve project milestones, showcasing strong teamwork and interpersonal skills.”
• “Resolved customer inquiries promptly and effectively, demonstrating exceptional communication and problem-solving skills.”
• “Led team meetings and facilitated productive discussions to brainstorm solutions, showcasing strong leadership abilities.”
• “Adapted quickly to new software systems and trained team members on usage, highlighting flexibility and teaching skills.”
• “Negotiated contracts with vendors to secure favorable terms, showcasing strong negotiation and interpersonal skills.”
• “Managed multiple competing priorities and deadlines with ease, demonstrating excellent time management and organizational abilities.”
• “Mentored junior team members, providing guidance and support to foster their professional development, highlighting leadership and mentoring capabilities.”
• “Identified inefficiencies in existing processes and implemented improvements, demonstrating critical thinking and problem-solving skills.”
• “Acted as a liaison between departments to guarantee effective communication and coordination, highlighting strong interpersonal and communication skills.”

3. In the skills section 

Dedicate a section of your resume to listing specific soft skills, providing concrete examples whenever possible. 

Here’s an example: 

Soft skills 

Communication: Effectively communicate project updates to stakeholders through clear, concise emails and presentations.

Leadership: Led a team of five in implementing a new process, demonstrating strong leadership and decision-making skills.

Teamwork: Collaborated closely with cross-functional teams to develop and launch a new product. This led to successful project completion that was ahead of schedule.

Adaptability: Adapted quickly to changes in project scope and priorities. Remained flexible and resilient during tight deadlines and shifting project requirements.

Problem-solving: Identified and resolved technical issues during software implementation. This led to a seamless transition and better system performance.

*Pro-Tip: Ask previous employers for testimonials that highlight your top soft skills. Add these to a “Testimonials” section at the end of your resume.

4. In resume attachments 

Consider attaching a cover page to your resume that includes more about your soft skills — or go the extra mile and provide case studies. 

For example, if you helped a client generate more website traffic and conversions, create a case study that explains the problem, how you solved it, and the end result. Include pie charts , charts, graphs, and screenshots as visual proof to build trust and crystallize your process.

Wrap up 

Soft skills help teams communicate, problem-solve, and collaborate. Think of them as people skills (or social skills).

You can showcase your soft skills on your resume by including them…

• In your bio or summary statement: Highlight key soft skills relevant to the job you’re applying for, such as teamwork, communication, and adaptability.
• In job descriptions: Incorporate examples of how you’ve demonstrated soft skills in previous roles, such as leading teams, resolving conflicts, or adapting to changes.
• In the skills section: Dedicate a section of your resume to list specific soft skills, providing concrete examples whenever possible.
• In resume attachments: Include additional materials like case studies or cover letters that demonstrate your soft skills in action, such as successful project outcomes, leadership initiatives, or collaborative efforts.

PS: Need help finding your next Canadian job? Use our finder now to get matched with the perfect employer for your skill set and goals.

That’s it for now. Here’s to your success!

Ryan Robinson

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