how to write a cover sheet for a resume

• Search Search Please fill out this field.
• Career Planning
• Finding a Job

What Is a Resume Cover Page?

Definition & Examples of a Resume Cover Page

How a Resume Cover Page Works

• Resume Cover Page Requirements

Examples of a Resume Cover Page

A resume cover page is a letter sent along with your resume when applying for jobs. It provides additional information on your skills and qualifications to a prospective employer.

Here's why you need a cover page and how to write one.

A resume cover page provides detailed information on why you're qualified for the job you're applying for. Don't think of the letter as a summary of your resume. Well-written cover letters explain why you're interested in this specific position and organization and why you're the best candidate for the job.

• Alternate names : Cover letter, covering letter

The purpose of a cover letter is to land an interview. Specificity is essential. If you write a generic letter and use it for every job application, it will show. It sends a signal that you're not that interested in the position and that you're not attentive to detail.

While it might sound overwhelming and time-consuming to personalize each cover page , the groundwork will be quite helpful if you do get an interview. Your research gives you a sense of the organization and how you can contribute it, and you can use that information to inform your interview.

Your cover page is your first impression with a hiring manager. In addition to making a case for your candidacy, take the time to proofread the letter and/or ask a friend or trusted mentor to review it and provide feedback.

The only time you shouldn't send a cover page is if the job posting specifically says not to.

Requirements for a Resume Cover Page

Before you start writing, spend some time  reviewing the job advertisement . A close examination of the ad will reveal what's important to hiring managers. For instance, if the posting mentions the need for organization and time management skills, mention in your cover letter that you're deadline-driven. If the position calls for leadership competencies, mention teams or projects that you've overseen. 

The format of a resume cover page varies slightly depending on whether you're emailing your resume as an attachment or sending it in the body of an email. Here's the standard format for an attachment. 

Standard Cover Letter Format

Your Contact Information

Name Address City, State, ZIP Code Phone Number Email Address

Employer Contact Information  (if you have it) Name Title Company Address City, State Zip Code

Salutation : Dear Mr./Ms. Name: ( begin here if you are sending the cover page in the body of an email)

First Paragraph Provide information on how you found out about the job and why you're applying. Mention the precise job title. 

Middle Paragraphs This section of the cover letter can be one paragraph or several. Use this space to describe your experience, focusing on how it shows that you're a good match for the position and have the necessary qualifications.

Final Paragraph Wrap up your cover page letter here by thanking readers for their consideration, and providing information on how you will follow up. 

Complimentary Close

Respectfully yours,

Typed Signature

Below is a sample resume cover page to help you craft your own.

Sheila Johnson 1234 Dogwood Avenue Knoxville, TN 37914 (123) 456-7890 sheila_johnson@email.com

July 2, 2020

Ms. Alexandra Eliot Hiring Manager ABC Company 3457 Neyland Street Knoxville, TN 37913

Dear Ms. Eliot:

I was very interested to learn that ABC Company is searching for a new Administrative Assistant through your recent posting on Indeed.com. Please accept the attached resume as a sign of my deep interest in this position.

As a recent graduate from Pellissippi State Community College’s Administrative Professional Technology Program, I can offer you advanced Microsoft Office 365 and QuickBooks accounting software skills. I am well-versed in traditional administrative tasks such as database management, data entry (typing 83 WPM), filing, and appointment scheduling.

You specify in your job posting that you're looking for someone with strong web design and social media management experience. Concurrent with my education at Pellissippi State, I also worked part-time as a Social Media Assistant for the Riverside Creative Agency. In that capacity, I helped create and manage new social media accounts on Facebook and LinkedIn for many local businesses. I’m sure that the skills I gained in social media design, SEO, and AdWords will allow me to contribute substantially to the in-house management of your website and social media presence.

My training, practical experience, attention to detail, and dedication to excellence will ensure that I hit the ground running as your next Administrative Assistant. ABC Company is widely respected as one of Knoxville’s best workplaces, and I would love to launch my career with your organization.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to discussing my qualifications in more detail. Please let me know if there is any additional information I can provide.

Sheila Johnson

Type your name at the close of the email followed by your contact information (email and telephone number). Your email  subject line  should include your name and the role you are seeking.

Key Takeaways

• A resume cover page is a letter sent along with your resume when applying for jobs. 
• It provides detailed information on why you're qualified for the job you're applying for.
• Tailor each cover page to the position. Don't just summarize your resume; provide context and make a case for your candidacy. 
• Use an example to help you craft your own cover page.