what goes on a cover sheet for a resume

What Is a Cover Page?

A cover page, also often called a cover letter, is one of the first things a hiring manager reads when reviewing your application. To make a positive first impression, your cover page should be easy to read and include information about why an employer should hire you. Read this article to learn the basics of cover pages, what details and information should be included and how to format a cover page.

What is a cover page?

A cover page is a one-page letter you send to employers in addition to your resume and any other application materials they ask for. You can describe your skills, experience, education and achievements that make you a good fit for the role. Be sure to include the reason why you applied for the position. A cover page can serve as a way to explain your interest in the role since a resume has limited space. Consider submitting a personalized cover page with each application you send.

What to include in a cover page

Here are the main items you should include in a cover page: 

At the top of your cover page, add a formal business header.

Example of a business header:

• Your name, address, phone number and email address
• The recipient’s name, company and address

If you’re unsure of the name of the person you need to send your cover page to, you can use the company name instead.

After your header, add a salutation that addresses the recipient. A professional salutation will have the recipient’s title and last name. For example, ‘Dear Mr. Wise.’ Reread the job description to see if there’s a specific person you should address, or you can contact the company. Use ‘Dear Hiring Manager,’ or ‘Dear Hiring Committee’ if you don’t know who to address. 

Details about the job and company

In your first paragraph, explain what job you’re applying for and how you found it. Specify which website you found the job advertisement on so hiring managers know which recruitment efforts are working. 

If someone referred you, include their name so the hiring manager can contact that person for more details about you. Including a name can also get the employer’s attention, making it more likely that they’ll invite you in for an interview. 

Skills and experience

Use your second paragraph to describe why you’re the right person for the job. Go into detail about any certain skills you have that the employer may find useful. If possible, relate your skills to some in the job description. Your cover page is a good place to write about how you use your skills in the workplace, so give specific examples. 

If you have any experience that relates to the job, you can also write about that in the second paragraph. Try to incorporate how you used the skills you mentioned to excel in the role. 

Additional items

If education, certifications or licensure are important for the job, list them in the next paragraph. 

Examples of additional information you might want to include:

• Degree title
• Year awarded
• Awarding body
• License number
• Expiration date

You can also add any achievements or accomplishments, such as winning an award. 

Interest in the role

In the next paragraph, tell the employer why you’re interested in the role. Look at the company’s website and the job description, then pick one or two things that make you excited about the job or business. This shows the employer that you did your research and truly want to work for the company. 

The final paragraph of your cover page should have a call to action for the hiring manager to follow up with you. State that you’re looking forward to learning about the next steps in the interview process, and that they can contact you if they have any questions about your resume and qualifications. You can also thank them for taking the time to read your cover page and resume. 

After that, include a professional closing, like ‘Sincerely,’ ‘Best’ or ‘Regards.’

Name and signature

Add a space after your closing to add your signature. If you’re sending your cover page by email, you can add an electronic signature or leave the space out. Below your signature, print your name. 

Cover page tips

Here are some tips to consider when writing your cover page:

• Keep it short.  Cover pages should be less than a page long. This ensures the employer can read it all the way through instead of scanning it. 
• Only include the necessary details. To keep the hiring manager’s interest, add details that are relevant to the role. Keep it focused so it’s easy to read in a short amount of time. 
• Use keywords if possible.  Look at the job description for any keywords you might be able to add. Skills, responsibilities and qualifications are all good areas to check for words you can incorporate in your cover page. 

By following these tips, you can create a cover page that hiring managers read from beginning to end.

Cover page template

You can use this template to write your own cover page:

[Your name] [Your address] [Your phone number] [Your email]

[Recipient’s name] [Recipient’s company] [Recipient’s address]

Dear [Recipient’s name],

[In the first paragraph, describe the role and how you found it.]

[Use the second paragraph to describe your skills and experience.]

[The third paragraph should explain your interest in the job.]

[End your letter with a call to action.]

[Closing], [Signature] [Your name]

Cover page example

This is an example of a basic cover page:

Michael Chang 43 2nd Ave. Franklin, PA 555-555-5555 [email protected]

February 4, 2020

Leandra Hussein Pennsylvania Glass, Inc.  673 Jacobs Ln.  Franklin, PA

Dear Ms. Hussein,

Thank you for considering me for your open transportation coordinator position. Morgan Lee, an accounting clerk at your company, informed me of the role on Monday, and I was excited to apply. 

In my three years as a transportation coordinator, I have developed excellent communication, time-management and organization skills. At my current job as a transportation coordinator with Diaz and Associates, I created a new fleet schedule and matrix that increased the number of local deliveries by four per day. I was also awarded Employee of the Month in November 2019.

After researching your company, I believe I would be a perfect fit for the role. I value teamwork and working hard to help others in achieving a common goal.

I would enjoy the opportunity to speak with you more about the job and your company. I have attached my resume for you to review, and I would be happy to answer any questions you have about my qualifications. Thank you for your time and consideration. 

Regards, 

Michael Chang

Resume Cover Page

Ai generator.

In the competitive job market, a well-crafted resume cover page can make all the difference. It’s not just a piece of paper; it’s your chance to showcase your skills, highlight your career goals, and captivate potential employers from the get-go. But what exactly is a resume cover page, and how can you create one that stands out? In this article, we will delve into the world of resume cover pages, providing you with inspiring examples, expert tips, and a step-by-step guide to help you craft a winning document. So, let’s embark on this journey to elevate your professional profile to new heights!

One Page Resume Cover Letter

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What is a Resume Cover Page

A resume cover page, also known as a cover letter, is a one-page document that accompanies your resume when applying for a job. It serves as an introduction to your qualifications, skills, and experiences, allowing you to showcase your unique value proposition to potential employers. Unlike the resume, which provides a concise summary of your work history, a cover page gives you the opportunity to highlight specific achievements, express your enthusiasm for the position, and demonstrate your compatibility with the company’s values and culture. Think of it as your personal marketing tool, designed to make a memorable first impression and entice employers to delve deeper into your application.

How to Create a Resume Cover Page

Before diving into the creation process, it’s essential to understand the purpose and significance of a well-crafted resume cover page. This introductory paragraph will guide you through the key elements and considerations involved in creating an impactful cover page.

Step 1: Understand the Job Requirements

Begin by thoroughly analyzing the job description and understanding the key skills, qualifications, and qualities the employer is seeking. This will help you tailor your cover page to align with their expectations.

Step 2: Research the Company

Conduct research on the company’s values, culture, and mission. This knowledge will allow you to showcase your compatibility and enthusiasm for their organization in your cover page.

Step 3: Personalize Your Introduction

Start your cover page with a strong and engaging introduction. Address the hiring manager by name, if possible, and express your interest in the specific position. Grab their attention and make them eager to read further.

Step 4: Highlight Your Skills

In the body paragraphs, focus on showcasing your skills, both hard and soft, that are relevant to the job. Provide specific examples and quantify your achievements when possible. This will demonstrate your capabilities and differentiate you from other candidates.

Step 5: Connect with Your Career Goals

Clearly state your career goals and explain how the position aligns with your aspirations. Showcase your enthusiasm for the industry and your motivation to contribute to the company’s success.

Step 6: Showcase Your Work Experience

Highlight your relevant work experience and accomplishments. Emphasize how your previous roles have prepared you for the position you are applying for and how your contributions have made a positive impact.

Step 7: Maintain a Professional Tone

Throughout your cover page, maintain a professional and confident tone. Avoid clichés and generic statements. Instead, focus on providing specific, compelling evidence of your qualifications and abilities.

Step 8: Proofread and Edit

Before submitting your cover page, carefully proofread it for any grammatical or spelling errors. Ensure that the formatting is consistent and the content is concise and easy to read.

Step 9: Tailor for Each Application

Customize your cover page for each job application. Highlight the most relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that directly relate to the specific position you’re applying for. This shows the employer that you’ve taken the time to understand their requirements and are genuinely interested in the role.

Step 10: Use an Effective Closing

End your cover page with a strong closing paragraph. Reiterate your interest in the position and express your eagerness for the opportunity to discuss how your qualifications align with the company’s needs in an interview. Thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration.

What are hard skills and soft skills, and why are they important on a resume cover page?

Hard skills refer to specific technical or job-related abilities, such as coding, project management, or language proficiency. Soft skills , on the other hand, encompass interpersonal qualities like communication, leadership, and problem-solving. Both types of skills are crucial to showcase on a cover page as they demonstrate your competence and potential to excel in a given role.

How should I format the paragraphs on my resume cover page?

When it comes to paragraph format on a cover page, it’s essential to maintain a clean and organized appearance. Start with an engaging introduction paragraph , followed by two to three body paragraphs highlighting your skills and experiences. Use bullet points, subheadings, or bold text to enhance readability and make important details stand out.

What is the optimal text structure for a resume cover page?

A well-structured cover page typically consists of an introduction that grabs attention, body paragraphs that provide evidence of your qualifications, and a strong conclusion that reiterates your interest in the position and invites further action. Consider using a logical flow that guides the reader’s attention and maintains coherence throughout your cover page.

Crafting an impressive resume cover page is an art that requires careful consideration and attention to detail. By showcasing your skills, aligning your career goals , and highlighting your work experience , you can create a powerful document that sets you apart from the competition. Remember, whether you’re creating an internship resume or a manager resume , the principles remain the same – make it engaging, concise, and tailored to the specific role you’re applying for.

Now armed with examples and a step-by-step guide, go ahead and create your own outstanding resume cover page. This invaluable tool will help you open doors to new opportunities and increase your chances of landing your dream job. Good luck on your journey to professional success!

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How to Write a Cover Letter [Full Guide & Examples for 2024]

After weeks of heavy job searching, you’re almost there!

You’ve perfected your resume.

You’ve short-listed the coolest jobs you want to apply for.

You’ve even had a friend train you for every single interview question out there.

But then, before you can send in your application and call it a day, you remember that you need to write a cover letter too.

So now, you’re stuck staring at a blank page, wondering where to start...

Don’t panic! We’ve got you covered. Writing a cover letter is a lot simpler than you might think. 

In this guide, we’re going to teach you how to write a cover letter that gets you the job you deserve.

We're going to cover:

What Is a Cover Letter?

• How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter, Step by Step
• 15+ Job-Winning Cover Letter Examples

Let’s get started.

A cover letter is a document that you submit as part of your job application, alongside your resume or CV.

The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background. On average, it should be around 250 to 400 words long .

A good cover letter is supposed to impress the hiring manager and convince them you’re worth interviewing as a candidate.

So, how can your cover letter achieve this?

First of all, it should complement your resume, not copy it. Your cover letter is your chance to elaborate on important achievements, skills, or anything else that your resume doesn’t give you the space to cover. 

For example, if you have an employment gap on your resume, the cover letter is a great place to explain why it happened and how it helped you grow as a person. 

If this is your first time writing a cover letter, writing about yourself might seem complicated. But don’t worry—you don’t need to be super creative or even a good writer .

All you have to do is follow this tried and tested cover letter structure:

• Header. Add all the necessary contact information at the top of your cover letter.
• Formal greeting. Choose an appropriate way to greet your target audience.
• Introduction. Introduce yourself in the opening paragraph and explain your interest in the role.
• Body. Elaborate on why you’re the best candidate for the job and a good match for the company. Focus on “selling” your skills, achievements, and relevant professional experiences.
• Conclusion. Summarize your key points and wrap it up professionally.

Now, let’s take a look at an example of a cover letter that follows our structure perfectly:

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

When Should You Write a Cover Letter?

You should always include a cover letter in your job application, even if the hiring manager never reads it. Submitting a cover letter is as important as submitting a resume if you want to look like a serious candidate.

If the employer requests a cover letter as part of the screening process, not sending one is a huge red flag and will probably get your application tossed into the “no” pile immediately.

On the other hand, if the job advertisement doesn’t require a cover letter from the candidates, adding one shows you went the extra mile.

Putting in the effort to write a cover letter can set you apart from other candidates with similar professional experience and skills, and it could even sway the hiring manager to call you for an interview if you do it right.

Need to write a letter to help get you into a good school or volunteer program? Check out our guide to learn how to write a motivation letter !

How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter

Now that you know what a cover letter is, it’s time to learn how to write one!

We’ll go through the process in detail, step by step.

#1. Choose the Right Cover Letter Template

A good cover letter is all about leaving the right first impression.

So, what’s a better way to leave a good impression than a well-formatted, stylish template?

Just choose one of our hand-picked cover letter templates , and you’ll be all set in no time!

As a bonus, our intuitive AI will even give you suggestions on how to improve your cover letter as you write it. You’ll have the perfect cover letter done in minutes!

#2. Put Contact Information in the Header

As with a resume, it’s important to start your cover letter with your contact details at the top. These should be in your cover letter’s header, separated neatly from the bulk of your text.

Here, you want to include all the essential contact information , including:

• Full Name. Your first and last name should stand out at the top.
• Job Title. Match the professional title underneath your name to the exact job title of the position you’re applying for. Hiring managers often hire for several roles at once, so giving them this cue about what role you’re after helps things go smoother.
• Email Address. Always use a professional and easy-to-spell email address. Ideally, it should combine your first and last names.
• Phone Number. Add a number where the hiring manager can easily reach you.
• Location. Add your city and state/country, no need for more details.
• Relevant Links (optional). You can add links to websites or social media profiles that are relevant to your field. Examples include a LinkedIn profile , Github, or an online portfolio.

Then it’s time to add the recipient’s contact details, such as:

• Hiring Manager's Name. If you can find the name of the hiring manager, add it.
• Hiring Manager's Title. While there’s no harm in writing “hiring manager,” if they’re the head of the department, we recommend you use that title accordingly.
• Company Name. Make sure to write the name of the company you're applying to.
• Location. The city and state/country are usually enough information here, too.
• Date of Writing (Optional). You can include the date you wrote your cover letter for an extra professional touch.

#3. Address the Hiring Manager

Once you’ve properly listed all the contact information, it’s time to start writing the content of the cover letter.

The first thing you need to do here is to address your cover letter directly to the hiring manager.

In fact, you want to address the hiring manager personally .

Forget the old “Dear Sir or Madam” or the impersonal “To Whom It May Concern.” You want to give your future boss a good impression and show them that you did your research before sending in your application.

No one wants to hire a job seeker who just spams 20+ companies and hopes something sticks with their generic approach

So, how do you find out who’s the hiring manager?

First, check the job ad. The hiring manager’s name might be listed somewhere in it.

If that doesn’t work, check the company’s LinkedIn page. You just need to look up the head of the relevant department you’re applying to, and you’re all set.

For example, if you’re applying for the position of Communication Specialist at Novorésumé. The hiring manager is probably the Head of Communications or the Chief Communications Officer.

Here’s what you should look for on LinkedIn:

And there you go! You have your hiring manager.

But let’s say you’re applying for a position as a server . In that case, you’d be looking for the “restaurant manager” or “food and beverage manager.”

If the results don’t come up with anything, try checking out the “Team” page on the company website; there’s a good chance you’ll at least find the right person there.

Make sure to address them as Mr. or Ms., followed by their last name. If you’re not sure about their gender or marital status, you can just stick to their full name, like so:

• Dear Mr. Kurtuy,
• Dear Andrei Kurtuy,

But what if you still can’t find the hiring manager’s name, no matter where you look?

No worries. You can direct your cover letter to the company, department, or team as a whole, or just skip the hiring manager’s name.

• Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
• Dear Hiring Manager
• Dear [Department] Team
• Dear [Company Name]

Are you applying for a research position? Learn how to write an academic personal statement .

#4. Write an Eye-Catching Introduction

First impressions matter, especially when it comes to your job search.

Hiring managers get hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of applications. Chances are, they’re not going to be reading every single cover letter end-to-end.

So, it’s essential to catch their attention from the very first paragraph.

The biggest problem with most opening paragraphs is that they’re usually extremely generic. Here’s an example:

• My name is Jonathan, and I’d like to work as a Sales Manager at XYZ Inc. I’ve worked as a Sales Manager at MadeUpCompany Inc. for 5+ years, so I believe that I’d be a good fit for the position.

See the issue here? This opening paragraph doesn’t say anything except the fact that you’ve worked the job before.

And do you know who else has similar work experience? All the other applicants you’re competing with.

Instead, you want to start with some of your top achievements to grab the reader’s attention. And to get the point across, the achievements should be as relevant as possible to the position.

Your opening paragraph should also show the hiring manager a bit about why you want this specific job. For example, mention how the job relates to your plans for the future or how it can help you grow professionally. This will show the hiring manager that you’re not just applying left and right—you’re actually enthusiastic about getting this particular role.

Now, let’s make our previous example shine:

Dear Mr. Smith,

My name’s Michael, and I’d like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed its sales goals as a Sales Manager. I’ve worked as a Sales Representative with Company X, another fin-tech company , for 3+ years, where I generated an average of $30,000+ in sales per month and beat the KPIs by around 40%. I believe that my previous industry experience, passion for finance , and excellence in sales make me the right candidate for the job.

The second candidate starts with what they can do for the company in the future and immediately lists an impressive and relevant achievement. Since they’re experienced in the same industry and interested in finance, the hiring manager can see they’re not just a random applicant.

From this introduction, it’s safe to say that the hiring manager would read the rest of this candidate’s cover letter.

#5. Use the Cover Letter Body for Details

The next part of your cover letter is where you can go into detail about what sets you apart as a qualified candidate for the job.

The main thing you need to remember here is that you shouldn’t make it all about yourself . Your cover letter is supposed to show the hiring manager how you relate to the job and the company you’re applying to.

No matter how cool you make yourself sound in your cover letter, if you don’t tailor it to match what the hiring manager is looking for, you’re not getting an interview.

To get this right, use the job ad as a reference when writing your cover letter. Make sure to highlight skills and achievements that match the job requirements, and you’re good to go.

Since this part of your cover letter is by far the longest, you should split it into at least two paragraphs.

Here’s what each paragraph should cover:

Explain Why You’re the Perfect Candidate for the Role

Before you can show the hiring manager that you’re exactly what they’ve been looking for, you need to know what it is they’re looking for.

Start by doing a bit of research. Learn what the most important skills and responsibilities of the role are according to the job ad, and focus on any relevant experience you have that matches them.

For example, if you’re applying for the position of a Facebook Advertiser. The top requirements on the job ad are:

• Experience managing a Facebook ad budget of $10,000+ / month
• Some skills in advertising on other platforms (Google Search + Twitter)
• Excellent copywriting skills

So, in the body of your cover letter, you need to show how you meet these requirements. Here’s an example of what that can look like:

In my previous role as a Facebook Marketing Expert at XYZ Inc. I handled customer acquisition through ads, managing a monthly Facebook ad budget of $40,000+ . As the sole digital marketer at the company, I managed the ad creation and management process end-to-end. I created the ad copy and images, picked the targeting, ran optimization trials, and so on.

Other than Facebook advertising, I’ve also delved into other online PPC channels, including:

• Google Search

Our example addresses all the necessary requirements and shows off the candidate’s relevant skills.

Are you a student applying for your first internship? Learn how to write an internship cover letter with our dedicated guide.

Explain Why You’re a Good Fit for the Company

As skilled and experienced as you may be, that’s not all the hiring manager is looking for.

They also want someone who’s a good fit for their company and who actually wants to work there.

Employees who don’t fit in with the company culture are likely to quit sooner or later. This ends up costing the company a ton of money, up to 50% of the employee’s annual salary , so hiring managers vet candidates very carefully to avoid this scenario.

So, you have to convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about working with them.

Start by doing some research about the company. You want to know things like:

• What’s the company’s business model?
• What’s the company’s product or service? Have you used it?
• What’s the company’s culture like?

Chances are, you’ll find all the information you need either on the company website or on job-search websites like Jobscan or Glassdoor.

Then, pick your favorite thing about the company and talk about it in your cover letter.

But don’t just describe the company in its own words just to flatter them. Be super specific—the hiring manager can see through any fluff.

For example, if you’re passionate about their product and you like the company’s culture of innovation and independent work model, you can write something like:

I’ve personally used the XYZ Smartphone, and I believe that it’s the most innovative tech I’ve used in years. The features, such as Made-Up-Feature #1 and Made-Up-Feature #2, were real game changers for the device.

I really admire how Company XYZ strives for excellence in all its product lines, creating market-leading tech. As someone who thrives in a self-driven environment, I truly believe that I’ll be a great match for your Product Design team.

So, make sure to do your fair share of research and come up with good reasons why you're applying to that specific company.

Is the company you want to work for not hiring at the moment? Check out our guide to writing a letter of interest .

#6. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Finally, it’s time to conclude your cover letter.

In the final paragraph, you want to:

• Wrap up any points you couldn't make in the previous paragraphs. Do you have anything left to say? If there’s any other information that could help the hiring manager make their decision, mention it here. If not, just recap your key selling points so far, such as key skills and expertise.
• Express gratitude. Politely thanking the hiring manager for their time is always a good idea.
• Finish the cover letter with a call to action. The very last sentence in your cover letter should be a call to action. This means you should ask the hiring manager to do something, like call you and discuss your application or arrange an interview.
• Remember to sign your cover letter. Just add a formal closing line and sign your name at the bottom.

Here’s an example of how to end your cover letter :

I hope to help Company X make the most of their Facebook marketing initiatives. I'd love to further discuss how my previous success at XYZ Inc. can help you achieve your Facebook marketing goals. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at the provided email address or phone number so that we may arrange an interview.

Thank you for your consideration,

Alice Richards

Feel free to use one of these other popular closing lines for your cover letter:

• Best Regards,
• Kind Regards,

Cover Letter Writing Checklist

Once you’re done with your cover letter, it’s time to check if it meets all industry requirements. 

Give our handy cover letter writing checklist a look to make sure:

Does your cover letter heading include all essential information?

• Professional Email
• Phone Number
• Relevant Links

Do you address the right person? 

• The hiring manager in the company
• Your future direct supervisor
• The company/department in general

Does your introductory paragraph grab the reader's attention?

• Did you mention some of your top achievements?
• Did you use numbers and facts to back up your experience?
• Did you convey enthusiasm for the specific role?

Do you show that you’re the right candidate for the job?

• Did you identify the core requirements for the role?
• Did you show how your experiences helped you fit the requirements perfectly?

Do you convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about the company you’re applying to?

• Did you identify the top 3 things that you like about the company?
• Did you avoid generic reasons for explaining your interest in the company?

Did you conclude your cover letter properly?

• Did you recap your key selling points in the conclusion?
• Did you end your cover letter with a call to action?
• Did you use the right formal closing line and sign your name?

15 Cover Letter Tips

Now you’re all set to write your cover letter! 

Before you start typing, here are some cover letter tips to help take your cover letter to the next level:

• Customize Your Cover Letter for Each Job. Make sure your cover letter is tailored to the job you're applying for. This shows you're not just sending generic applications left and right, and it tells the hiring manager you’re the right person for the job.
• Showcase Your Skills. Talk about how your skills meet the company’s needs. And while your hard skills should be front and center, you shouldn’t underestimate your soft skills in your cover letter either.
• Avoid Fluff. Don’t make any generic statements you can’t back up. The hiring manager can tell when you’re just throwing words around, and it doesn’t make your cover letter look good.
• Use Specific Examples. Instead of saying you're great at something, give an actual example to back up your claim. Any data you can provide makes you sound more credible, so quantify your achievements. For example, give numbers such as percentages related to your performance and the timeframe it took to accomplish certain achievements.
• Research the Company. Always take time to learn about the company you're applying to. Make sure to mention something about them in your cover letter to show the hiring manager that you're interested.
• Follow the Application Instructions. If the job posting asks for something specific in your cover letter or requires a certain format, make sure you include it. Not following instructions can come off as unattentive or signal to the hiring manager that you’re not taking the job seriously.
• Use the Right Template and Format. Choose the right cover letter format and adapt your cover letter’s look to the industry you’re applying for. For example, if you’re aiming for a job in Law or Finance, you should go for a cleaner, more professional look. But if you’re applying for a field that values innovation, like IT or Design, you have more room for creativity.
• Express Your Enthusiasm. Let the hiring manager know why you're excited about the job. Your passion for the specific role or the field in general can be a big selling point, and show them that you’re genuinely interested, not just applying left and right.
• Address Any Gaps. If there are any employment gaps in your resume , your cover letter is a great place to mention why. Your resume doesn’t give you enough space to elaborate on an employment gap, so addressing it here can set hiring managers at ease—life happens, and employers understand.
• Avoid Quirky Emails. Your email address should be presentable. It’s hard for a hiring manager to take you seriously if your email address is “[email protected].” Just use a [email protected] format.
• Check Your Contact Information. Typos in your email address or phone number can mean a missed opportunity. Double-check these before sending your application.
• Mention if You Want to Relocate. If you’re looking for a job that lets you move somewhere else, specify this in your cover letter.
• Keep It Brief. You want to keep your cover letter short and sweet. Hiring managers don’t have time to read a novel, so if you go over one page, they simply won’t read it at all.
• Use a Professional Tone. Even though a conversational tone isn’t a bad thing, remember that it's still a formal document. Show professionalism in your cover letter by keeping slang, jargon, and emojis out of it.
• Proofread Carefully. Typos and grammar mistakes are a huge deal-breaker. Use a tool like Grammarly or QuillBot to double-check your spelling and grammar, or even get a friend to check it for you.

15+ Cover Letter Examples

Need some inspiration? Check out some perfect cover letter examples for different experience levels and various professions.

5+ Cover Letter Examples by Experience

#1. college student cover letter example.

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

#2. Middle Management Cover Letter Example

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

#3. Team Leader Cover Letter Example

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

#4. Career Change Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to a career change resume and cover letter here.

#5. Management Cover Letter Example

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

#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing an executive resume here.

9+ Cover Letter Examples by Profession

#1. it cover letter example.

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

#2. Consultant Cover Letter Example

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

#3. Human Resources Cover Letter

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

#4. Business Cover Letter Example

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

#5. Sales Cover Letter Example

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

#6. Social Worker Cover Letter

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

#7. Lawyer Cover Letter

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

#8. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter

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

#9. Engineering Cover Letter Example

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

#10. Receptionist Cover Letter Example

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

Need more inspiration? Check out these cover letter examples to learn what makes them stand out.

Plug & Play Cover Letter Template

Not sure how to start your cover letter? Don’t worry!

Just copy and paste our free cover letter template into the cover letter builder, and swap out the blanks for your details.

[Your Full Name]

[Your Profession]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Location]

[Your LinkedIn Profile URL (optional)]

[Your Personal Website URL (optional)]

[Recipient's Name, e.g., Jane Doe],

[Recipient's Position, e.g., Hiring Manager]

[Company Name, e.g., ABC Corporation]

[Company Address]

[City, State/Country]

Dear [Recipient's Name],

As a seasoned [Your Profession] with [Number of Years of Experience] years of industry experience, I am eager to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. With my experience in [Your Industry/Sector] and the successes I've achieved throughout my education and career, I believe I can bring unique value and creativity to your team.

In my current role as [Your Current Job Title], I've taken the lead on more than [Number of Projects/Assignments] projects, some valued up to $[Highest Project Value]. I pride myself on consistently exceeding client expectations and have successfully [Mention a Key Achievement] in just a [Amount of Time] through [Skill] and [Skill].

I've collaborated with various professionals, such as [List Roles], ensuring that all [projects/tasks] meet [relevant standards or objectives]. This hands-on experience, coupled with my dedication to understanding each [client's/customer's] vision, has equipped me to navigate and deliver on complex projects.

My key strengths include:

• Improving [Achievement] by [%] over [Amount of Time] which resulted in [Quantified Result].
• Optimizing [Work Process/Responsibility] which saved [Previous Employer] [Amount of Time/Budget/Other Metric] over [Weeks/Months/Years]
• Spearheading team of [Number of People] to [Task] and achieving [Quantified Result].

Alongside this letter, I've attached my resume. My educational background, a [Your Degree] with a concentration in [Your Specialization], complements the practical skills that I'm particularly eager to share with [Company Name].

I'm excited about the possibility of contributing to [Something Notable About the Company or Its Mission]. I'd be grateful for the chance to delve deeper into how my expertise aligns with your needs.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

The Heart of Your Job Search - Creating a Killer Resume

Your cover letter is only as good as your resume. If either one is weak, your entire application falls through.

After all, your cover letter is meant to complement your resume. Imagine going through all this effort to leave an amazing first impression in your cover letter, only for the hiring manager to never read it because your resume was mediocre.

But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered here, too.

Check out our dedicated guide on how to make a resume and learn everything you need to know to land your dream job!

Just pick one of our resume templates and start writing your own job-winning resume.

Key Takeaways

Now that we’ve walked you through all the steps of writing a cover letter, let’s summarize everything we’ve learned:

• A cover letter is a 250 - 400 word document that’s meant to convince the hiring manager that you’re the best candidate for the job.
• Your job application should always include a cover letter alongside your resume.
• To grab the hiring manager’s attention, write a strong opening paragraph. Mention who you are, why you’re applying, and a standout achievement to pique their interest.
• Your cover letter should focus on why you’re the perfect candidate for the job and why you’re passionate about working in this specific company.
• Use the body of your cover letter to provide details on your skills, achievements, and qualifications, as well as make sure to convey your enthusiasm throughout your whole cover letter.
• Recap your key selling points towards the end of your cover letter, and end it with a formal closing line and your full name signed underneath.

At Novorésumé, we’re committed to helping you get the job you deserve every step of the way! 

Follow our career blog for more valuable advice, or check out some of our top guides, such as:

• How to Make a Resume in 2024 | Beginner's Guide
• How to Write a CV (Curriculum Vitae) in 2024 [31+ Examples]
• 35+ Job Interview Questions and Answers [Full List]

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What to Put on a Resume: 9 Things to Include

By Biron Clark

Published: November 8, 2023

Biron Clark

Writer & Career Coach

Your resume is the first thing a company sees when you apply for a job. Usually, it’s the deciding factor in whether you get an interview or not. On your resume, you’ll list your contact information, skills, prior work experience, education, and any other relevant information pertinent to the role you’re applying for. 

You should tailor your resume any time you apply for a role, even if the job appears highly related to your current and prior work experience. Insert relevant keywords and phrases from the job description, but rephrase them so your tailoring seems entirely natural.  Of course, you want to remain honest in your application, so don’t include skills or experience you don’t possess. If you do, the hiring manager will likely discover your misstatements during an interview, and this may cause them to reject your application.

The following are all the components you should include in your resume to ensure you put your best foot forward in the application process.

If you’re wondering what to put on your resume, this article is for you.

I’m going to share everything you should include to get more interviews.

We’ll look at:

Resume Basics

• What to put in a resume for experienced candidates
• What to put in a resume if you have no experience
• What NOT to include in your resume (mistakes to avoid)
• How to address employment gaps on a resume
• My best tip for getting your resume to stand out from other job seekers so you can land a better job in less time

Here’s exactly what to put on a resume, based on my experience as a recruiter…

Your resume is a one- or two-page document that outlines your experience, education, and skills related to an open position. Recruiters and hiring managers will review your resume to determine whether you are a suitable fit for the job.  Remember that they’re likely looking at many different resumes — not just yours — so it’s crucial to showcase your strongest attributes and tailor your resume to suit the specific job position.

There are three basic types of resumes: chronological, functional, and combination.

A chronological resume starts with your most recent work history and works backward. It’s the most common type of resume people use when they’re presenting their professional background.

A functional resume is skills-focused and is more appropriate for individuals with less experience who are looking for a job in a new profession. Applicants also turn to functional resumes when they’d rather not emphasize a few gaps in their work history.

A combination resume provides an equal balance of skills and work history. Typically, it will start with critical skills related to the position before following with the applicant’s work history.

Watch: What to Put on a Resume

What to put on your resume if you have experience.

If you’re entering a job search with prior work experience, the following sections should be included on your resume.

(And don’t worry, I’ll share what entry-level job seekers should put on their resume coming up later in this article).

For job seekers with work experience, these are the 9 key types of information that a resume should include:

• Name and Contact Info
• Resume Summary Paragraph
• Employment History
• Social Media
• Community Involvement (Optional)
• Awards/Achievements You’ve Received (Optional)

Now that you know the 9 main things to include in a resume, let’s look at these sections step-by-step so you’ll know how to write each one. 

1. Name and Contact Information

At the top of your resume, put your full name and a professional-looking email address. Your phone number and street address are optional, but for most people, I’d recommend including them. If you’re  applying for jobs out-of-state , it might make sense to leave your address off.

Now, for formatting and design…

I’d keep it simple and “clean”-looking. No distractions. Not too many fonts and colors. In fact, this is good advice for  how to format your whole resume .

Here’s an example from our Free Resume builder of what a simple resume header with your name and contact info might look like:

You can add a bit more in terms of design, but don’t go overboard.

2. Resume Summary Paragraph

This is the next section of your resume, and should go right after your name and contact info in most cases. This is a two or three sentence summary of your qualifications and accomplishments throughout your career (or throughout your education if you just graduated).

Note: this is not an “objective” section. I’d advise against putting an objective on your resume. Hiring managers know your objective is to land a job in their industry that will utilize your skills, etc. So put a summary paragraph instead.

If you need help writing this paragraph, here’s an article filled with great  resume summary examples .

You can also include the job title right within your resume summary in some cases, which will immediately show employers that you have some relevant experience. For example, let’s say the job title on the job ad is “Senior Account Analyst”. You could write your summary like: “Senior-level account analyst with five years of experience in…”

It’s okay if you’re not a resume writing expert. Just use these examples here to craft your own resume summary.

Lets take a look at another example from our Free Resume Builder :

3. Employment History

If you have held any previous jobs (including internships), your experience section is where to put them. Focus heavily on this experience section, as it’s one of the first places a hiring manager looks on your resume.

Write the section in reverse chronological order , which means your most recent work should be at the top.

Include job titles, company names, and dates. You can choose whether to put just years, or months and years for each job; just be consistent throughout the document. And always begin this section within the top half of the first page of your resume.

As a recruiter , one of the top mistakes I saw job seekers make was burying their employment history on the bottom of the first page, or even the beginning of page two. It should be much higher up, and should be visible when they open your resume on a computer without having to scroll down.

Hiring managers will typically look here even before your skills section, so always be looking for opportunities to highlight technical skills and relevant job skills here. Ask yourself: “What have I done in recent jobs that will show a hiring manager that I’d do well in their job, too?” That’s the mindset to take when writing your work history. It’s all about writing your resume to fit the job you want next. And since hiring managers and recruiters are busy, they don’t want to read big, bulky paragraphs. Instead, put  bullets highlighting what you did in each job . I’d suggest five to eight bullet points per job.

You can write a small introductory paragraph for each job, but most of the content should be in bullet format. In these bullet points, don’t just talk about job duties; talk about what you actually accomplished. There’s a big difference.

Here’s an example…

Rather than saying, “responsible for managing 5 sales associates”… say, “successfully led 5 sales associates to achieve 139% of team sales goals for Fiscal Year 2020.”

The image above is an example of a resume work experience section with accomplishment-driven bullets. Take the time to understand the difference and you’ll be far better than most job seekers at resume writing.

This is the next big section to put on your resume in any job search.

You might be tempted to put your skills before your employment history… and other people may have even told you to do this. But the only time I think it makes sense to list skills first is if you have absolutely no work experience. (I’ll share more about what to put on a resume with no experience coming up, by the way).

But if you have any prior work at all in your career… hiring managers don’t want to see a long list of technical skills without being able to see where you used each skill (and how recently you used them). This is why they’re much more likely to scan your resume looking for recent jobs before anything else. And that’s why you should put it higher up, so they can find this key info that they’re looking for quickly.

The bottom line is: If you want a good resume, then your skills should come after your experience section.

In your  skills section , you can put a list of your top  skills that are relevant to the job you’re applying for,  and you can even put them under a few headers/categories if you think it makes sense for your job and industry. You should focus mostly on hard skills. The best skills to put will be found directly on the job description. It’s better to highlight soft skills (like “team player”) in your cover letter, where you can tell a story and share more detail on how you used this skill to succeed.

On a resume, hiring managers mainly look for hard skills and skills relevant to the job requirements.

There’s no perfect number of skills to put. Some people might only need 3-10; others might put 20. It really depends on how long you’ve been working and what field of work you’re in. Make sure you think about what’s relevant for the job though; don’t just list a bunch of skills that won’t help you in their job. And think about keywords too – this is a great place to put keywords on your resume so you can  get past online job application systems .

5. Education

Put the name of your school(s), your field of study, and graduation date – unless you feel your graduation date will leave you open to age discrimination on your resume. If you graduated decades ago, feel free to leave the dates off. You can also put your GPA in this section. I’d only recommend doing that if it was above 3.0/4. Otherwise, leave it off. You might be asked about your GPA in the first few years of your career, but you’re very unlikely to be asked about it again after that, so don’t worry if your GPA is below 3.0/4. Just exclude it from your resume.

6. Social Media

Nowadays, everyone has a social media account — many times on various platforms. In some cases, you’ll want to include your social media account handles if they’re relevant to the position you’re applying for.

Most people have a LinkedIn profile to connect with colleagues and other professionals in their industry. If you have a LinkedIn profile, you should certainly include a link if it’s correctly filled out and reflects similar content to your tailored resume.

Other social media accounts, like Twitter, StackOverflow, Github, and Medium, may also be helpful to include in some instances. For example, if you’re a noted journalist, you likely have a Twitter account you use to share important news or communicate with the community. In this case, it would be appropriate to include your Twitter handle.

Sites like StackOverflow and Github are popular for coders, developers, and data scientists. If you’re very active on these sites, it might be worth including your account on your resume.

Freelancers, content writers, and entrepreneurs regularly posting to Medium should share their channel information. Bonus points if they have many shared articles and comments on their content.

7. Language

Some companies actively seek to hire employees who are fluent in languages besides English. If you are fluent in another language or know it well enough to speak or write it in a professional environment, include it on your resume. 

Languages like Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, and Portuguese are often especially valuable to organizations with a global footprint, although others can also be beneficial.

8. Community Involvement (Optional)

If you’ve done any volunteer work or helped in your community in other ways, this is where to put it. You can list the location, dates, and your contribution/work. If you haven’t done any volunteering or community-related work, don’t worry – just don’t put this section on your resume.

9. Awards/Achievements (Optional)

Any time you’ve received awards or other recognition for your accomplishments, you should put it on your resume. However, you don’t always need a separate section for it. That’s up to you… If you got an academic award, you can list it under your education section (beneath your degree, GPA, etc.) If you received an award or recognition for outstanding performance at a previous job, you can list it as a bullet point or a note underneath that specific job in your Employment History section.

So while awards and achievements are a great thing to include on any resume, they don’t always need their own dedicated section. You should also mention awards and recognition you’ve received in your cover letter, especially if it was a work-related award (such as employee of the month , salesperson of the year, etc.)

What to Put on a Resume if You Have No Work Experience

Now, if you just graduated and have absolutely  no work experience , here’s what to include on your entry-level resume.

(Note that if you even have an internship or part-time job that you’ve worked while going to school, you should use the steps above! Any work experience at all is worth showing on your resume).

However, if you have absolutely no work experience, here’s what to put on your resume…

As mentioned earlier, you should put your full name and professional-looking email address. Your street address and phone number are optional, but for most people, it makes sense to include those too.

The big exception: If you’re trying to get a job in another state . If so, consider leaving the address off.

2. Resume Summary Section

Even if you have no work experience, you can write something like:

“Recent Finance graduate with training in ____ and ____ seeking an opportunity to do ____.”

Or, look at the job title on the job description and try to incorporate that phrase into your resume summary. I discussed this strategy earlier, too, when showing the resume format and what to put for experienced candidates.

For more help, read our full article on  resume summaries for students and fresh graduates .

3. Education

If you have no work experience, then you need to put more information in your education section, to show employers you’re a fit for their job.

Were you involved in any clubs/activities at school?

What were some key projects you completed or coursework you did? (Specifically, key projects that are related to the jobs you’re applying for now).

Your resume should take up one full page, even if you have no work experience, and your education section is a place where you want to provide additional detail to fill out the page.

You can list skills that you learned in your studies or skills you’ve developed on your own. Only put skills you’re really comfortable talking about and using, because it’s very likely they’ll ask about this in an interview. If done right, the skills section can be a powerful tool to help you get more interviews though, for two reasons:

First, it’s a great way to put a lot of relevant keywords onto your resume, so that you get past computerized job application systems.

Second, it’s an easy way to show employers what you know that’s going to help you succeed in their job. Always re-order and re-adjust your skills section to fit what you think this specific employer wants!

More info on how to do that is coming up, but let’s finish the list first…

5. Community Involvement (Optional)

Any volunteer work or community service you’ve done. This  shows employers that you’re enthusiastic  and involved in the community, which can help set you apart (while also filling up your resume).

6. Awards/Achievements (Optional)

If you have no work experience, these would likely be academic achievements. Go ahead and list them underneath your education section. So don’t put this as a separate section, but do include awards, achievements, and any recognition you received when you write your education section in Step 3 above.

You now know what to include on a resume, even if you’ve never held a job! Keep reading though, because next – we’re going to look at mistakes to avoid.

Ideal Resume Format

Whether you have work experience or not, you should use reverse chronological order resume format . This is the resume format that recruiters and employers are used to seeing and prefer to read.

Don’t get fancy when it comes to your resume writing. Don’t use some unusual format, like a functional resume, that hides dates of employment and the order of the jobs you’ve held. This will only frustrate employers and cost you job interviews. It could also prevent you from getting through a company’s applicant tracking system .

What Not to Include on a Resume: Mistakes to Avoid

Now we’ve looked at what should be included in a resume and how to write those sections to grab attention.

We’re not done yet though – there are a few things that you should leave off of your resume if you want to get interviews… and you may not have been warned about these. So let’s cover that next…

1. Irrelevant Jobs

If you have a long work history, consider removing some jobs that aren’t relevant, or were at the very beginning of your career (especially if you’ve been working for 15-20 years or more). Note that you shouldn’t remove an irrelevant job if it’s going to leave your employment history empty. For example, if you’ve only held one job but it’s not relevant to what you want to do next, you should still keep it.

Why? It’s better to put a job that doesn’t seem closely related to your current job search than to put absolutely nothing in your employment history. And you can always show traits like leadership, accountability, hard work, problem-solving, etc., in your past work history, no matter what job you had! So hiring managers might still find it relevant and impressive.

2. An Objective Statement

It’s a mistake to write a resume with an objective. This is outdated and no longer necessary. Employers will assume that your objective is to obtain a position at their company if you’ve applied, so this is not something to include on your resume. Instead, put a  career summary section, as mentioned earlier in this article.

You can read more about why a resume doesn’t need an objective  here .

3. Anything That Makes Your Resume More Than Two Pages

Unless you have a Ph.D. and are writing an academic CV… or unless you’ve been working for 10-15+ years… your resume should not be more than two pages.

For 60-70% of people, your resume should only be one page. So focus on what’s most important and keep the length short.

As a recruiter, I’d rather see 8 specific skills that are relevant to the job I’m hiring for, rather than a list of 30 general skills that you’ve used throughout your career but might not be relevant to the job. So  make your resume laser-focused and target their needs!

4. More Soft Skills Than Hard Skills

As mentioned earlier, employers care mostly about hard skills on a resume. Your cover letter and job interview is where you should be demonstrating soft skills like communication, interpersonal skills, active listening, etc.

So as you review your resume, it’s a problem if you find many soft skills but few hard skills and job-related skills. In fact, you should be looking to highlight these job-related skills in practically every resume section, starting with your resume summary paragraph .

5. Spelling or Grammar Mistakes

Proofread and spellcheck everything.

You are very unlikely to get called for an interview if you have a spelling or grammar mistake on your resume – and nobody’s going to tell you either. So you need to find it yourself, or have a friend proofread it carefully for you!

Here’s a little trick if you proofread it yourself: temporarily change your resume to an unusual font before proofreading. It will help you spot errors (sounds crazy, I know. But it works). Now you’ve hopefully gotten answers to your questions about what should a resume include, and you’ve seen the top things to leave off as well.

ATS Optimization

Most companies use an automated tracking system (ATS) that scans all resumes before passing them on to recruiters. The ATS will automatically flunk the resumes of candidates who don’t appear to have the appropriate experience or education to qualify for the role.  You’ll want to ensure your resume includes keywords and phrases that are relevant to the position so you will make it past the ATS scanner .

How to Address Employment Gaps on a Resume

If you have any gaps in your employment history, you’ll want to explain them — especially if they’re longer than a year. 

You can usually “disguise” small gaps of less than a month by simply omitting the month. That practice is entirely acceptable, and if it comes up during the interview, you can explain you took a few weeks off before starting a new job.  However, for lengthier leaves of absence, you’ll want to describe what you did when you weren’t working full-time. For instance, if you took off a few years to raise young children or care for an elderly parent, simply list your reasons and the date.

There’s one final step, though, that’s going to get you far more interviews from all of this…

Final Step to Make Your Resume Stand Out: Tailor Your Resume to the Job Description

I recommend tailoring your resume to match the job description before sending it out for each job. Look at the skills and keywords listed on the job description as you’re writing your resume, and include matching information as much as possible.

Recruiters are always evaluating your resume relative to the job opening, so the more you can include skills and professional experience from their job posting, the more interviews you’ll get. Customize your career summary statement, work experience, and even skill list. You can use the job posting to discover new ideas of what to include. You can also reorder your content and even remove one or two areas that aren’t relevant to the jobs you want next.

Here’s a full article on  how to tailor your resume for each job .

It will take you slightly longer to customize each job application, but  you’ll get far more responses.

Would you rather apply for 50 jobs and hear back from one? Or apply for 25 jobs and hear back from four? That’s the type of difference tailoring your resume can make.

Now you know what goes on a resume and how to make each section attractive to employers. If you follow the steps above you’re going to have a great resume that grabs attention and shows recruiters and hiring managers why they should interview you immediately.

Conclusion: What Should Job Seekers Put on a Resume?

If you read everything above, you now know what sections to include when writing your professional resume. You also know which format to use: reverse chronological order. Plus, you know the top mistakes to avoid, such as including a resume objective.

IF you follow this advice, you’ll have a resume that shows relevant skills and experience, in the order that employers want to see it.

Your resume will get past applicant tracking systems and recruiters/HR, so you can win more interviews for the jobs you want.

Note that you can either do this resume writing yourself or use a resume builder . Either way, you can follow the advice above to ensure you finish with the right resume format.

About the Author

Read more articles by Biron Clark

More Resume Tips & Guides

Crafting the perfect resume for teens (template & expert advice), career change interview tips, resume tips and more, how much does a resume writer cost (average price and ranges), walk me through your resume: answer examples, applying for jobs out of state this resume tip can help, how long should a resume be, how to put direct and indirect reports (and other data) on your resume, what makes a good resume 9 ways to know, 11 common resume mistakes to avoid, career change resume: examples and tips from experts, 2 thoughts on “what to put on a resume: 9 things to include”.

If someone is a new grad looking for their first “real job” out of college, is it okay/recommended to split work experience into 2 sections like “relevant [major/industry] experience” and “additional experience”, or just to lump everything into 1 section called “work experience” and list everything in order relevant or not?

I would like to know one more thing I could put on there because I have all of these but im just not sure its enough. Thanks

Comments are closed.

How to Make a Front Page for a Resume

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How to Include Creative Writing Samples With Resumes

How to do a resume cover letter that isn't addressed to a person, how to send a cover letter & cv by e-mail.

• How to Upload a CV for Jobs
• How to Make a Spec Portfolio

A resume cover page, title page or front page are all terms that refer to a cover letter, and not including one in a job application could be a real deal-breaker. The experts at ResumeGenius explain that these one-page letters explain why the applicant is qualified for the job and includes a request for an interview. They shouldn't be too long: three to four paragraphs consisting of 250 to 400 words is the ideal length.

Resume Cover Page Example

The experts at ResumeGenius provide plenty of tips for writing these letters and a good resume cover page example; you can download this resume title page template for free. The first paragraph explains the reason for the letter, which is finding the job posting, determining that the applicant is a good fit and is wanting to apply. This is followed up by highlighting the experience with a few well-chosen bullet points. The last paragraph reinforces the applicant's desire to apply and get an interview. Then, it provides the contact information and a brief thank you; the last thing to do is type out the name.

If your resume has a design on the top with your name, it's nice to match that up on the cover letter; you can look at how it's done in the examples. You can find more resume title page templates provided by the experts at Novo Resume , LiveCareer and other websites. Don't just copy and paste these examples because employers can tell when they've been plagiarized. Use them as guidelines and try to inject some of your personality without going overboard. Don't appear overly enthusiastic; let them know that you're seriously interested but keep it professional and brief enough to make them want to learn more about you.

What Is a Cover Page for an Essay?

Cover pages and letters are not exclusive to resumes and are used for other purposes. The writers at Cite This For Me explain that cover pages are used in academic essays at the very front of the work. They include vital information to identify what's included so readers can quickly identify it and determine whether it's an article they'd like to finish. Cover pages for printed documents also protect the work from dirt and smudges but are also used in digital formatting because they look more organized and professional.

The writers at EasyBib share an example of an essay cover page. This example includes the title of the paper, the running head, the author's name, the author's institutional affiliation and an author's note. This particular example utilizes the APA format; the MLA format is used less frequently. These examples even include the measurements for the margins and indents, which can be helpful.

How to Insert a Cover Page

What is a cover page in computer documents? It's basically the same thing, but programs like Microsoft Word do the hard work for you. The writers at Geeks for Geeks post that this particular feature can be the first thing a reader sees when opening your document and contains the document title, a logo, pictures and any other pertinent information. They also have step-by-step instructions for creating one.

You can do this before or after the main document is written and can also be revised as needed. To create this in Microsoft Word, you go to the top navigation menu and choose the "insert" submenu. Look for the "pages" icon and choose "cover page" next; you'll be shown formatting choices that you can pick. Make your choice, format as desired and you will add it to your document. To remove a cover page, return to the insert menu, select cover page and delete the current one from the list shown.

• ResumeGenius: How to Write a Resume Cover Page
• Novo Resume: How to Write a Cover Letter in 2022 | Beginner's Guide
• Cite This for Me: What's a Title or Cover Page? And How Do I Make One?
• EasyBib: How to Write an Essay Cover Page
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• When you've completed the page, print it on a high-quality paper, using colored paper if you so choose. Just be sure to follow the employer's guidelines, if any, about paper color. Then place the cover page in a clear plastic sheet cover or assemble all the materials into one attractive three-ring binder or folder.

Danielle Smyth is a writer and content marketer from upstate New York. She has been writing on business-related topics for nearly 10 years. She owns her own content marketing agency, Wordsmyth Creative Content Marketing, and she works with a number of small businesses to develop B2B content for their websites, social media accounts, and marketing materials. In addition to this content, she has written business-related articles for sites like Sweet Frivolity, Alliance Worldwide Investigative Group, Bloom Co and Spent.

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The differences in a cover sheet & cover letter.

Cover letters and cover sheets are both ways to introduce yourself, your organization or your business to others. Both cover letters and cover sheets can accompany many types of correspondence. Cover letters are particularly important when submitting your resume for employment. A cover sheet is a less formal version of cover letter, containing only the essential information required to make an introduction.

Cover letters are sent with resumes as an introductory letter. A cover letter allows you to personalize what might otherwise be impersonal material. Cover letters are typically two to three paragraphs long. They should include a salutation, your letter's purpose and a summary of your qualifications or experience. The purpose statement of your letter should include where you found the job announcement, the specific position to which you are applying and a few remarks on why you are personally interested in the position. When writing about your qualifications be certain to note how your experience specifically matches the job requirements being sought.

Other Cover Letters

Cover letters can also be sent with business materials such as reports, grant proposals and marketing packages. Business cover letters should include a salutation, the letter's purpose and a request for a response or statement of next steps. For example, if you are submitting a grant proposal to a funder, your letter's purpose would include specific funding request amount, how the funding will meet an urgent need for your organization and a statement about your organization's effectiveness in reaching its mission.

Cover Sheets

Cover sheets are a less personal version of a cover letter. They include only basic information such as your contact information and the purpose of the correspondence in a brief sentence or two. When submitting a cover sheet with a resume you may also include the title of the position to which you are applying and your availability. However, whenever possible include a more personal cover letter with your resume. Businesses use cover sheets to send faxes and when sending other correspondence for which a more thorough introduction is not necessary.

Related Articles

What is a letter of request →.

Proper References for Enclosures on Letters →

How to Format the Second Page of a Memo →

How to Write a Handwritten Cover Letter for a Resume →

How to write a formal business letter →.

How to Compile a Cover Letter →

Erika Sanders has been writing since 1997. She teaches writing at the Washington State Reformatory and edits the monthly newsletter for the Collaborative on Health and the Environment, a national nonprofit organization. She received her Master of Fine Arts in fiction from the Solstice Program at Pine Manor College in Boston.

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How to Make a Cover Page

Last Updated: January 12, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Amber Rosenberg, PCC . Amber Rosenberg is a Professional Life Coach, Career Coach, and Executive Coach based in the San Francisco Bay Area. As the owner of Pacific Life Coach, she has 20+ years of coaching experience and a background in corporations, tech companies, and nonprofits. Amber trained with the Coaches Training Institute and is a member of the International Coaching Federation (ICF). There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 146,672 times.

Many professional and academic documents will require a cover page, but the information required for a cover page varies depending on the nature of the document. Some cover pages, like those you would send with a resume, are actually letters. Others, like those used for academic essays, are actually title pages. For all cover letters, using a standard font such as Times New Roman, in at least a 12-point size, is recommended.

Formatting a Cover Page For Your Resume

• You should usually use standard 1-inch (2.5-cm) margins, but you can use margins as small as 0.7 inch (1.8 cm) as long as they are the same on all sides.

• If you have a fax number, you should include it below your phone number and above your e-mail address.

• Write out the full name of the month, rather than abbreviating by using a number. For example, rather than write 1/1/2001, you should write January 1, 2001.
• Leave a blank line above and below the date.

• Note that you do not need to include an e-mail address, phone number, or fax number for the company.
• If you do not know the name of a specific contact at the company, skip over that information.

• When you can determine the gender of the receiver, leave out his or her first name and address the receiver as "Mr." or "Ms." For example, "Dear Ms. Smith" or "Dear Mr. Johnson."
• If you do not know the gender of the receiver, skip the title and use his or her full name. For example, "Dear Pat Roberts."
• Leave a blank line before and after you address the receiver.

• If you are a student, state the university you attend and your major.
• Indicate what position you are applying for as well as how or where you heard about the position.
• You can also mention the name of a professional or academic contact you know who has a positive connection to the reader or company.

• List any special projects, awards, or accomplishments that have a clear connection to the skill set requested by the employer.

• You can include your phone number and e-mail address, as well, but it is not entirely necessary since this information is included in your header.

• Always use black ink to sign formal documents.

Making a Cover Page For a Fax

• Include your phone number and your fax number beneath your name and address.
• Leave at least two blank lines below this header and the rest of the document.

• It's a good idea to save your document as a template for future fax use, since the general format will remain the same.
• The most important quality to your fax cover sheet is that it be clear and easy to read.

• Label the date with "DATE," the receiver's name with "TO," your name with "FROM," and your phone number with "PHONE."
• In the United States, the date will be written in "Month, Day, Year," while in most other countries, it will be written "Day, Month, Year."

• Label the time with "TIME," the receiver's fax number with "FAX," your fax number with "FAX," and your e-mail address with "EMAIL."
• Note that the receiver's name and fax number should be placed on the same horizontal line. Likewise, your name and fax number should be placed on a shared horizontal line of their own.

• Note that this line does not need to be in all capital letters.

• If you had previous contact with the receiver concerning this fax, state that information.
• Introduce your message with the label "MESSAGE:"
• Below your message, ask the receiver to verify the receipt of the document by calling the phone number provided or using the e-mail address provided.

• Specific privacy guidelines for transmission of protected confidential information may vary. If you work for a health provider, you may need to follow additional guidelines to protect the privacy of your client.

Formatting a Cover Page For Your Manuscript

• Use your real name. If you are submitting the manuscript under a pen name, you can follow your real name with your pen name. Introduce a pen name with "A.K.A." or "(Pen name: John Doe)."
• If you're submitting your work to a context that will be judged anonymously, you'll include your contact information on the cover page, while omitting your name and contact information from the title page.

• You do not need to use an exact word count. For instance, if your manuscript is 63,472 words, round it off to 63,000 or 63,500.
• Introduce the word count with "Approximately ______ words."

• Typing the title in all capital letters is a fairly common practice, but it is not necessary.
• It's not necessary to underline, italicize, or bold the title.

• You don't have to include any indication of copyright protection, as your work is automatically protected.
• Never bind or connect the pages of your manuscript in any way. Your cover letter, like the other pages of your manuscript, should be unbound and placed in an envelope or box.

Using APA Style For Your Cover Page

• Introduce the running head with the words "Running head." Follow this label with a colon.
• The running head itself should be in all capital letters.
• The running head should be no longer than 50 characters, including spaces and punctuation.

• The page number and running head should be evenly aligned horizontally.

• Capitalize the first letter of all major words but not for minor words. For example: How to Make a Cover Page
• Do not italicize, bold, or underline the title.

• For example, if you are submitting the paper for a class taken at the University of North Carolina at Asheville, you should include this in the line beneath the author's name (i.e. your name, and the names of your co-authors.)
• Check with your professor for any additional guidelines.

Using MLA Style For Your Cover Page

• Be aware that cover pages are not standard in MLA format, but some professors do request them.

• Do not bold, italicize, or underline either the title or the subtitle.

• Your name should be written using the same font and size as the other words on your title page.
• Don't try to use a cute or clever font for any part of your cover page, as professors don't care for this.

• Introduce your instructor as "Dr." when appropriate. If you cannot use this title to address your instructor, at least introduce him or her as "Professor." For example, "Dr. John Doe" or "Professor John Doe."
• Include both the course name and number.

Using Chicago Style For Your Cover Page

• In Chicago style, cover page and title page refer to the same thing.
• Your professor may have other requirements. Make sure you use the preferred formatting for your course.

• Capitalize the first letter of each major word in your title, but not those belonging to minor words. For example: How to Make a Cover Page
• Alternatively, some style guides suggest that the title be presented in ALL CAPS.
• Do not underline, italicize, or bold the title.
• If you have a subtitle, place a colon following your title and write the subtitle on the following line.

• Your name should be typed about three quarters of the way down the page.
• Use the same font and size that you've used throughout the cover page.

• Include both the name and course number of the subject.
• Write your professor's full name and title. Use "Dr." only when appropriate. For example: "Dr. John Doe" or "Professor John Doe."

Expert Q&A

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://careercenter.georgetown.edu/major-career-guides/resumes-cover-letters/resume-formatting-tips/
• ↑ Amber Rosenberg, PCC. Pacific Life Coach. Expert Interview. 8 March 2022.
• ↑ http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/549/01/
• ↑ http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/create-edit-fax-cover-page#1TC=windows-7
• ↑ https://winningwriters.com/resources/manuscript-tips
• ↑ http://academictips.org/mla-format/mla-format-cover-page/
• ↑ https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/717/02/

About This Article

To make a cover page using MLA format, start by setting your margins to 1 inch on all sides and keeping the alignment centered. Next, choose 12 point Times New Roman for your font and place your title roughly one-third of the way down, capitalizing the first letter of every major word in your title. Then, skip several lines below the title and write your full name, as well as any other collaborators. Finally, list the name of your instructor, the name of the class, and the date, making sure to separate each element with a double-spaced line. To learn more, like how to make a cover page using APA or Chicago Style, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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The Right Way to Submit References During Your Job Search (Template Included)

As you’re applying to jobs, you may be wondering about the best way to submit your references. Should you put them on your initial application materials? And how would you even list references on a resume?

The answer is, you don’t.

SEARCH OPEN JOBS ON THE MUSE! See who’s hiring here , and you can even filter your search by benefits, company size, remote opportunities, and more. Then, sign up for our newsletter and we’ll deliver advice on landing the job right to you.

Listing your references on a resume that should be one page (or maybe two pages ) is a waste of valuable space. A hiring manager or recruiter doesn’t have the ability to contact references for everyone who applies to an open position or even everyone they bring in for an interview. So save that resume room for detailing your skills, achievements, and qualifications.

What about writing, “ References available upon request, ” on your resume?

Avoid this too.

There’s “no need to state anything about references on your resume. It is assumed that you’ll share the info when requested,” Muse career coach Leto Papadopoulos says. Don’t waste a resume line to say something that’s taken for granted. (After all, you wouldn’t write, “Available for interviews upon request,” would you?)

Read on to learn the right way to list your references, download our template, and see an example.

When Do You Need References?

“Employers will typically check your references just before they’re ready to make an offer,” Papadopoulos says. That’s why you don’t need to provide them when you’re first applying for a job. But it’s a good idea to have them ready to go before you even land an interview.

If a company is ready to hire you pending a reference check, the last thing you want is to be held up by asking people to be a reference or collecting their contact information. Instead, you should “have your references ready and keep them updated during your search,” Papadopoulos says.

Who Should You Ask to Be a Reference?

Most companies will ask for two or three references from a candidate, so it’s always best to have at least three ready to go. Some prospective employers may request a certain mix of types of references, but generally you want to list former managers (or your current manager if they know about and are supportive of your job search) and former or current colleagues; if you’re earlier in your career and don’t have many former managers, you could list professors you worked closely with. If you’d be leading a team, you may be asked for a reference from a former direct report. For some client-facing roles, like account management, companies might want to hear from a former client or customer, so be sure to read up on the norms for your industry.

(Read more about who to list as a reference here or—if you have less work experience— here .)

The Right Way to Provide Your References to an Employer

Once you know who your references will be, you want to make it easy to submit them to employers when asked. So you should compile everything you need into a reference sheet, one handy—and well-formatted—document that can expedite the hiring process in the final stages.

When the time comes, you can attach your reference sheet to an email as a Word document or PDF file, or you can simply copy and paste the information into the body of the email.

What Information to Include on Your Reference Sheet

On your reference sheet, you should list each reference with the following information:

• Current Job/Position
• Phone Number
• Email Address
• Reference Description: Write one sentence explaining how you know or have worked with this person, where, when, and for how long. (Check out the example below to see what this looks like in action.)

There’s no need to include your reference’s home or work address—companies aren’t going to be mailing them anything. And if a reference expresses a strong preference for a certain method of contact, it’s OK to put “(preferred contact)” next to that line on your reference list.

To keep things easy for the hiring manager, it’s also a good idea to include your own name, phone number, and email at the top of the sheet (see the template and example below).

Reference Sheet Template and Example

You can use our template to make sure you have everything you need for all of your references.

Download the template here.

Here’s one example of what your reference sheet might look like:

References for Monica Medina (999) 000-1111 [email protected]

Nicole Chiu Director of Engineering Sunshine Inc. (555) 123-4567 [email protected] Nicole was my direct manager from 2016 to 2018 when I worked as a software developer for Sunshine Inc.

Kwame Smith Front-End Software Engineer Zapp Co. (111) 222-3333 [email protected] Kwame is an engineer I collaborate with daily in my current position at Zapp Co.

Dr. Carol Moore Professor of Computer Science University of Pennsylvania (123) 987-6543 [email protected] Carol was my professor in four different classes and my faculty advisor for my computer science degree.

Keeping references off your resume is not only the standard now, it’s also more thoughtful toward the people you’ve asked to speak on your behalf. By only submitting their names and contact information when asked directly (usually at the end of the hiring process), you’ll know when a prospective new employer is actually going to contact them—and you can give them a heads up, pass on any important information about the job or company you’re applying for, and thank them for their help.

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What to Include in a Cover Letter for a Job

When writing a cover letter, specific information needs to be included: a contact section, salutation, and introduction to the hiring manager, as well as information on why you are qualified for the job, a closing, and your signature. The format generally depends on how you are sending your letter. 

The goal of your cover letter is to make a case for getting selected for a job interview, so it's important to include all required information along with a compelling argument for why you would be a strong candidate for the position.

It can be time-consuming to write a custom cover letter for each job you apply for, but it's important to take the time and effort to show the company why you are a good match.

Tips on Writing a Cover Letter

The more your experience and your skills match the job description, the higher your chances of getting picked for an interview.

Don't simply repeat what's in your resume. Your resume lists your skills, but your cover letter should highlight how you have put those skills to use.

Be sure to include information in your letter about how you possess the particular skills and requirements that the employer is seeking.

Before you start writing, review cover letter examples and make sure that your letter explains how your skills relate to the criteria listed in the job posting. Looking at examples of effective cover letters will give you a starting point for creating your own letter.

Here's what to include in a cover letter to send with a resume when you apply for a job.

What to List in a Cover Letter Contact Section

When writing a cover letter to mail or upload to a job board or company website, the first section of your cover letter should include information on how the employer can contact you.

Printed or Uploaded Letter List the following information in the contact section:

Hiring Manager Name (if you have it) Title Company Address City, State Zip Code

Your Name Address City, State Zip

Email Cover Letter When you send an email cover letter , include your contact information in your signature instead of listing your contact information at the top of the message:

Your Name Street Address City, State Zip Code Email Phone LinkedIn

Here's more information, with examples, on how to address a cover letter .

Choose an Appropriate Salutation

It's important to include an appropriate greeting at the beginning of the cover letter or message. If you have a contact person for your letter, be sure to include their name in your letter.

Consider salutation examples that are appropriate for cover letters and other employment-related correspondence.

For example:

• Dear Hiring Manager (if you don't have a contact person)
• Dear Mr. Smith
• Dear Ms. Jones
• Dear Rory Dolan
• Dear Dr. Milliard

Highlight Your Qualifications in the Body Section

The body is the most important part of a cover letter or an email message applying for employment.

The body of a cover letter includes the paragraphs where you explain why you are interested in and qualified for the posted job :

• Why you are writing.
• How you are qualified for the job.
• Appreciation for being considered for the position.

Be specific by referencing the employer's job requirements as listed in the job posting in this part of your cover letter.

Include Keywords in Your Letter

Including keywords related to the jobs for which you are applying in your cover letters can help you get selected for a job interview. These are specific words hiring managers look for when considering applications.

As hiring processes have become automated, online applicant tracking systems are programmed to search for keywords.

Choose an Appropriate Closing

Make sure to close your letter  in a professional manner. Casual closings as you would write to a friend or a family member are not appropriate in a letter to a potential employer. 

• Best regards
• Respectfully
• Thank you for your consideration

Add Your Signature to the Letter

Hard copies of letters should be signed by hand. Scanning your signature to include on PDFs can be a nice touch, while emails should include a professional electronic signature that includes your contact information.

Review Cover Letter Examples

Here's an example of the final product, including information on why the applicant would be an excellent candidate with a summary of his qualifications for the job. 

Download the template for a cover letter here . You can also review more  cover letter samples  with free downloadable templates to use as starting points for your own letter.

John Bigham 111 Maple Street Anytown, MA 02222 555-555-5555

September 1, 2024

Shaun Lee Human Resources Goodspring 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321

Dear Mr. Lee:

I am writing to state my interest in the position of Assistant to the Director of Goodspring. I believe that my work experience and education have equipped me with the skills necessary to be a successful candidate for this position. 

During my years with XYZ Wellness, I have been responsible for everything from accounting, bookkeeping, marketing and maintaining records to scheduling appointments and greeting clients and their families at the door. I have proudly overseen our growth from a startup business to a well-respected contributor to the community. 

I have also been in charge of organizing our very successful annual golf fundraiser and dinner. Last year, we raised $145,000 for our local homeless shelter. 

Your mission is an important one, and I would very much appreciate the opportunity to speak with you about how I can contribute to your team and help you continue to provide the services so vital to our community. Thank you for your consideration.

John Bigham  (signature hard copy letter)

John Bigham

When you're sending an email cover letter  (see below)  your contact information should be listed after your signature.

What to Include in an Email Cover Letter

The body of an email cover letter should contain the same information as a document cover letter, but two big differences are the subject line and your contact information.

Many employers ask that specific information be included in the subject line , and you must follow those instructions carefully. Contact information should be included with your electronic signature.

What Not to Include in a Cover Letter

Some things don't belong in a cover letter. Don't go overboard. Including too much information can hinder your chances of getting an interview.

Keep your letter concise and focused, and don't include extraneous details.