Here’s how to write an effective cover letter for an internal position

When applying for an internal role with your current company, you might have an edge over external applicants. An impressive cover letter, however, can you set apart even more. Whether you’re looking to transfer to a new team or advance in the company, knowing how to write a cover letter for an internal position can be the key to your success. 

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about writing a cover letter for an internal job or promotion. We’ll show you:

• What to include in an internal cover letter

• Tips for writing a great cover letter for an internal promotion

• Examples you can use for guidance to write your letter

What to include in a cover letter for an internal job

A cover letter for an internal job follows the same format as a letter to a new employer. Your internal cover letter should include the following sections:

• A header with your name and contact information, the date, and the recipient’s name

• An introductory paragraph that states your current job title and the position you’re applying for

• Body paragraphs explaining how the target job matches your skills, backed up by examples of your previous accomplishments with the company

• A conclusion expressing your gratitude for being considered

How to write a cover letter for an internal position

A great cover letter for an internal job shows the hiring manager your value as an employee and your potential for success in a new role. Follow these tips for writing a cover letter for an internal position or promotion:

1. Explain your goals

For an internal cover letter, you usually don’t need to start with a formal introduction. Instead, briefly explain why you’re applying for the new position or promotion. Discuss how the target role aligns with the work you’re currently doing and your long-term career goals. Show the hiring manager how your ambition and drive make you an asset to the organization.

2. Align your experience with the role

In the body of your letter, discuss how your current role has equipped you with the right experience for the new job. Highlight the relevant responsibilities you’ve had or the successes you’ve achieved in your existing job. In addition, mention the transferable skills you’ve gained and explain how you plan to use them in a new role.

Tailor this part of your letter to the target role. For example, if you’re writing a cover letter for an internal promotion, you may emphasize the leadership skills you’ve developed or explain how you’ve taken on more responsibilities in your current role. If you’re applying for a job on a new team, you may focus on your adaptability or teamwork skills.

3. Share your achievements

A hiring manager wants to know how you will succeed in the new role, so share some achievements you’ve had while working for the company. Use data and numbers to support your accomplishments. Quantifiable metrics can prove the impact you’ve had as an employee and show the hiring manager what you’re capable of achieving in a new position.

When mentioning your past accomplishments, you can also include the soft skills you used to achieve them. These skills may include teamwork, attention to detail, or communication. For example, if you collaborated with cross-functional teams on a major project, highlight this achievement to show that you’re likely to work well with others in the new job.

4. Highlight your company knowledge

One of your biggest strengths as an internal applicant is that you already know a lot about the company. You’re familiar with the company’s culture, mission, and values, and you can weave those details into your cover letter to explain why you’re the right fit for the role.

Here’s an example:

• In my current role, I’ve witnessed firsthand how team leads inspire others to do their best work and exceed expectations for customers, a core value of the company. I want to step into the role of a team lead to continue this commitment to excellence, using the relationship-building skills I’ve developed to motivate and lead others toward success.

Including this information in your cover letter is likely to convey a positive message to the hiring manager that you’re willing to learn and grow with the company. Your company knowledge may significantly increase your chances of landing the job. 

5. Provide a reference

If there’s someone in your organization who can provide a referral for you, mention their name in the cover letter. For example, your manager may attest to your professionalism and work ethic. Their recommendation can go a long way, especially if the hiring manager is unfamiliar with your work.

A referral can also be a point of contact to confirm or corroborate some achievements you’ve mentioned in the cover letter, giving more transparency to your application. You can mention a referral in the introductory or closing paragraph of your cover letter. Include the person’s name, job title, a description of your relationship, and why they’re recommending you.

6. Express gratitude

End your cover letter by thanking the hiring manager for considering you for the internal position. Briefly summarize your interest in the role, your relevant experience, and your goals. Include a call to action encouraging the hiring manager to contact you to discuss the next steps. Sign the letter with a professional salutation and your full name.

Cover letter examples for an internal position or promotion

Here are two cover letter examples you can copy and adapt for yourself when applying for an internal position or a promotion within your current company:

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Key takeaways

1. A cover letter for an internal position or promotion should focus on how your previous experience has prepared you for a new role.

2. In your cover letter, highlight your knowledge of the organization and emphasize your achievements in your current role.

3. Providing an internal reference can be a great way to prove your value to the organization.

4. Review some internal cover letter examples to get inspiration for writing your own letter.