- What do you write in the body of a cover letter?
- 1. Introduction
- 2. Qualifications section
- 3. Closing
- What to include in the main paragraph of a cover letter
- 2 Cover letter body samples
- Key takeaways
Your cover letter is your opportunity to leave a hiring manager with a great first impression of you and your unique skills. This article covers the best way to write a cover letter body and see some examples of what works!
A cover letter body is important in multiple ways. For starters, it lets you show your excitement for the role you are applying for. Second, it gives you a unique way to display some of your top skills. Your goal is to impress a hiring manager with your cover letter enough that they want to learn more about you.
In this article, we will cover:
What to write in the body of a cover letter
What to include in the main paragraph of a cover letter
Two cover letter body samples
What do you write in the body of a cover letter?
A cover letter body is made up of three sections: the introduction, the qualifications section, and the closing. Regardless of which section you are writing, show that you are a professional excited and qualified for the role.
Below is a look at the three sections:
1. Introduction
When writing this paragraph, your purpose should be to give some details as to who you are and why you are interested in the open position. There are a couple of topics to include. First, you should demonstrate your excitement about the job and the company itself. Next, convey your passion for the industry as a whole. You can use this information to lead into your qualifications section.
2. Qualifications section
This section of your cover letter body is devoted to your skills and achievements. Remember, your goal is to prove you are the perfect candidate. Do this by displaying how your achievements and skills can transfer to the open role.
Write the paragraphs in this section with purpose. Review the job description and list specific skills that will make you an asset for the role. Once you’ve included your most valuable skills and two to three main achievements, work on your closing paragraph.
3. Closing
In the closing paragraph of your cover letter body, again display your gratitude and excitement for the role. Conclude with a call to action that prompts the hiring manager to review your resume and call you to schedule an interview.
What to include in the main paragraph of a cover letter
The main paragraph of your cover letter body is the qualifications section. It’s most important because it shows a hiring manager that you are qualified for the open position.
Here are five items to include:
Keywords. The specific skills mentioned in the job listing should be sprinkled throughout your cover letter.
Quantifiable achievements. When possible, incorporate achievements that can be measured by a number, dollar amount, or percentage.
Technical skills. Specific technical skills or software proficiencies valuable in the role should be touched on in your cover letter body.
Education. Mention degrees or certifications that will help you stand out from other applicants.
Soft skills. While you don’t need to list them directly, show you have the soft skills that are necessary to be successful in the role.
2 Cover letter body samples
Now that we know what goes into making an impactful cover letter body, let’s look at a couple of samples:
I was excited to learn that [Company Name] is hiring an administrative assistant who is skilled in managing schedules, performing accounting tasks, and completing ERP duties. I have been passionate about assisting companies with their administrative needs for over 10 years.
In my current role as [current role/title] for [Current Company Name], I have demonstrated my project management, event coordination, and data management skills by achieving the following:
Led implementation of new project management software and oversaw user training, software settings customization, and project tracking.
Organized company-wide training events for 200+ employees, coordinated logistics, managed vendors, and supervised participant experience.
Reduced client database errors by 20% by implementing a data verification process.
I’m confident my skills will transfer to the administrative assistant role with [Company Name]. I’m excited to become an instant asset to your team. Please review the attached resume and call/email me to set up an interview at your earliest convenience.
I was thrilled to discover that [Company Name] is seeking an experienced operations manager. I’m eager to leverage my skills in optimizing processes, coordinating teams, and driving operational excellence.
As an operations manager with [Current Company Name], I have brought quality assurance enhancements, supply chain optimization, and safety and compliance achievements to my role. Here are some of my top achievements:
Reduced product defects by 25%, resulting in increased customer satisfaction and fewer returns.
Revamped supply chain process, reduced lead times by 40%, and increased on-time deliveries by 15%.
Implemented safety protocols and training program, resulting in 50% decrease in workplace accidents.
I am confident that my skills will be an asset to [Company Name]. Please feel free to contact me via phone or email if you have any questions or need further information. I appreciate your time and consideration.
For even more assistance with writing your cover letter, our cover letter builder can help streamline the process.
Key takeaways
A cover letter body should include an introduction, a qualifications section, and a closing with a call to action.
Your qualifications section needs to include keywords, quantifiable achievements, technical skills, and education.
Each cover letter body you write should be customized for the specific role you are applying for.
