Why a Strong Cover Letter Ending Matters
The conclusion of your cover letter is your last chance to make a powerful and lasting impression on the hiring manager. It’s not merely a formality; it’s a strategic opportunity to reinforce your interest in the position, reiterate your key qualifications, and prompt the reader to take action. A weak or generic ending can undermine all the compelling points you’ve made previously, leaving the hiring manager with a lukewarm impression. Conversely, a well-crafted conclusion can solidify your candidacy and significantly increase your chances of landing an interview.
Think of your cover letter as a sales pitch. The body highlights your skills and experience, demonstrating how you can solve the employer’s problems. The ending is your call to action, urging them to take the next step. It’s where you confidently express your enthusiasm, reiterate your value proposition, and clearly state your desired outcome. Failing to capitalize on this final opportunity is akin to stopping short of closing a sale – you risk losing the opportunity despite having presented a compelling case.
Key Elements of an Effective Cover Letter Conclusion
A successful cover letter ending incorporates several essential elements, working in harmony to leave a positive and memorable impression. Firstly, reiterate your interest in the specific role and the company. This demonstrates genuine enthusiasm and prevents the impression that you’re sending out generic applications. Secondly, briefly summarize your key qualifications, focusing on the most relevant skills and experiences that align with the job requirements. This serves as a final reminder of your value proposition. Thirdly, express your eagerness for an interview and clearly state your availability. This encourages the hiring manager to take the next step in the hiring process. Finally, thank the reader for their time and consideration. A simple expression of gratitude demonstrates professionalism and respect.
Beyond these core elements, consider adding a touch of personalization. Referencing something specific you learned about the company or the role during your research can demonstrate your proactive interest and initiative. Tailoring your conclusion to reflect the company’s culture or values can also strengthen your connection with the hiring manager. However, avoid generic statements or overly formal language. Aim for a confident, professional, and personable tone that reinforces your unique value and enthusiasm for the opportunity.
15 Sample Cover Letter Endings (with Explanations)
Sample 1: Direct and Confident
Thank you for considering my application. I am confident that my skills and experience in project management and team leadership align perfectly with the requirements of this position. I am eager to discuss how I can contribute to [Company Name]’s success. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.
Explanation: This ending is direct and confident, highlighting key skills and expressing immediate availability.
Sample 2: Enthusiastic and Action-Oriented
I am incredibly excited about the opportunity to join [Company Name] as a [Job Title] and contribute to your innovative work in [Industry]. I am confident that my skills in [Skill 1] and [Skill 2] would be a valuable asset to your team. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Explanation: This ending emphasizes enthusiasm and a proactive approach, perfect for a forward-thinking company.
Sample 3: Focused on Company Culture
[Company Name]’s commitment to [Company Value] deeply resonates with my own professional values. I am confident that my passion for [Relevant Field] and my skills in [Skill] would allow me to thrive in your collaborative environment. Thank you for your consideration. I am eager to learn more about this opportunity and discuss how I can contribute to your team.
Explanation: This ending demonstrates an understanding of the company culture and emphasizes how the candidate’s values align.
Sample 4: Highlighting Key Achievements
As my resume details, I have a proven track record of success in [Relevant Area]. I am confident that my ability to [Achievement 1] and [Achievement 2] would be a significant asset to your team at [Company Name]. Thank you for your time and consideration. I welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview.
Explanation: This ending reinforces key achievements and connects them directly to the company’s needs.
Sample 5: Expressing Gratitude and Availability
Thank you for taking the time to review my application. I am very interested in the [Job Title] position and believe my skills and experience align well with your requirements. I am available for an interview at your convenience and can be reached by email at [Your Email] or by phone at [Your Phone Number]. I look forward to hearing from you.
Explanation: This ending is straightforward and provides clear contact information for easy follow-up.
Sample 6: Referring to a Shared Connection
I was particularly interested to learn about [Company Initiative] from [Mutual Contact], and I believe my experience in [Relevant Field] would be a valuable asset in that area. Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to discuss how I can contribute to [Company Name]’s ongoing success.
Explanation: Leverages a connection for added credibility and shows specific interest in a company initiative.
Sample 7: Addressing a Specific Challenge
I understand that [Company Name] is currently facing challenges in [Specific Area]. My expertise in [Relevant Skill] and my experience in [Similar Situation] would enable me to contribute effectively to finding solutions. Thank you for your consideration. I am confident that I can make a significant impact on your team.
Explanation: Demonstrates awareness of company challenges and positions the candidate as a problem-solver.
Sample 8: For Entry-Level Candidates
While I am early in my career, my internship experience at [Company Name] and my coursework in [Relevant Subject] have provided me with a strong foundation in [Industry]. I am eager to learn and contribute to [Company Name]’s success. Thank you for your consideration. I am available for an interview and would welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.
Explanation: Acknowledges limited experience but highlights relevant skills and eagerness to learn.
Sample 9: For Career Changers
Although my background is in [Previous Field], I am confident that my transferable skills in [Skill 1] and [Skill 2], combined with my passion for [New Field], make me a strong candidate for this position. Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to learn and grow at [Company Name].
Explanation: Addresses the career change directly and emphasizes transferable skills and enthusiasm.
Sample 10: Emphasizing Long-Term Goals
I am seeking a challenging role where I can contribute to a company’s long-term success, and I believe [Company Name] offers that opportunity. My skills in [Skill 1] and [Skill 2] align well with your needs, and I am eager to learn and grow within your organization. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Explanation: Highlights a desire for long-term growth and alignment with the company’s mission.
Sample 11: Concise and Professional
I am very interested in the [Job Title] position and believe my skills and experience make me a strong candidate. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.
Explanation: A shorter, more direct closing, suitable for more formal industries.
Sample 12: Focusing on Problem-Solving Abilities
I am confident in my ability to quickly learn and adapt to new challenges, and I am eager to apply my problem-solving skills to contribute to [Company Name]’s success. Thank you for your consideration. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.
Explanation: Highlights adaptability and problem-solving, valuable assets in any role.
Sample 13: Showcasing Leadership Qualities
I am a strong leader with a proven ability to motivate and inspire teams. I am confident that I can effectively lead [Relevant Area] at [Company Name]. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my leadership experience further.
Explanation: Emphasizes leadership skills and offers to elaborate during an interview.
Sample 14: Expressing Passion for the Industry
I am passionate about [Industry] and eager to contribute to [Company Name]’s continued innovation in the field. My skills in [Skill 1] and [Skill 2] would be a valuable asset to your team. Thank you for your consideration. I am excited about the opportunity to learn more.
Explanation: Highlights genuine passion for the industry, making the candidate stand out.
Sample 15: Following Up After Networking
Following our conversation at [Event/Conference], I am even more excited about the opportunity to join [Company Name] as a [Job Title]. My skills in [Skill 1] and [Skill 2] align perfectly with your requirements. Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Explanation: Reminds the hiring manager of a previous interaction and reinforces interest.
Conclusion: Sealing the Deal with a Powerful Closing
The conclusion of your cover letter is your final chance to leave a lasting positive impression. It’s not just a formality; it’s a strategic opportunity to solidify your candidacy and increase your chances of landing an interview. By following the guidelines outlined in this article and tailoring your ending to the specific job and company, you can create a compelling conclusion that reinforces your value, expresses your enthusiasm, and prompts the hiring manager to take action.
Remember to always proofread your cover letter carefully for any errors in grammar or spelling. A polished and error-free document demonstrates attention to detail and professionalism. With a well-crafted and impactful cover letter ending, you can significantly boost your chances of securing an interview and ultimately landing your dream job. Good luck!