If you work in HR, you’ve likely reviewed countless resumes, and you’ve come to appreciate the impact of a perfectly crafted cover letter.
Cover letters can be the defining factor in a job application. Now, as you find yourself in the position of writing one, the task may seem daunting. But don’t worry, we’ve got just what you need.
This guide includes:
- HR cover letter examples to guide and motivate you.
- A versatile cover letter template specifically for HR roles.
- Easy-to-follow steps for each section of your cover letter.
- Extra tools to help your application make a memorable impression.
Ready to craft your cover letter now? Our Cover Letter Builder is at your service. Select from various cover letter styles, avoid any formatting concerns and use our ready-to-use phrases specifically designed for HR professionals.
Popular HR cover letter examples
Looking for a specific cover letter example? Here are some related jobs that might interest you.
How to write an HR cover letter
Now, let’s talk about the core components of making an impressive HR cover letter.
If you have HR experience, you’re already familiar with the basics, but a refresher on tailoring these elements to make the best case for your candidacy can help.
Step 1
Choose an appropriate template
Working in HR, you know the importance of presentation. Select a cover letter template that matches the organizational culture you’re applying to. Whether it’s a classic or contemporary design, it should reflect the ethos of the company.
Step 2
Include your contact details
Position your contact information at the top. You’re familiar with these details, but for completeness, ensure you include:
- Your full name and HR credentials
- City and state
- Phone number
- Email address
- LinkedIn profile or professional website, if applicable
Step 3
Personalized greeting
You understand the impact of a personalized touch. Address the hiring manager directly, like “Dear Mr. Smith.” If the name is unavailable, “Dear Hiring Manager” maintains professionalism. Avoid generic phrases like “To Whom It May Concern.”
Step 4
Craft an engaging opening
In your opening paragraph, leverage your insight into HR to succinctly showcase your unique professional angle, focusing on what sets you apart in the HR field.
Step 5
Highlight your experience
In about three paragraphs, highlight your experience. As you know, specifics matter. Include instances of strategic HR initiatives, successful recruitment campaigns or effective employee relations strategies you’ve implemented.
Step 6
Emphasize your skills
As an HR professional, your hard skills (like employee relations or onboarding) and soft skills (like empathy and communication) are crucial. Don’t think of them in opposition to one another — hard skills vs soft skills — but more of a team that works together in harmony.
Highlight both your technical HR skills and interpersonal abilities. These skill sets are complementary in HR, working together to build a well-rounded professional profile.
Step 7
Express interest one last time
Your cover letter closing should reaffirm your interest in the role, express gratitude for the opportunity to apply, and encourage further contact.
Step 8
Professional signoff
Conclude with a formal signoff such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards,” followed by your signature.
HR cover letter examples by career stage
As you evolve in your HR career, the nuances of your cover letter should reflect these changes. Below, we offer tailored examples of how to craft an HR professional’s cover letter for different stages of your career.
HR student cover letter
Why this HR cover letter works:
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Uses a clean, easy-to-read template
Select a template that is visually appealing and easy to navigate.
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Expresses interest in the company
This candidate clearly articulates why they’re drawn to the company, mainly for their commitment to a positive work environment.
-
Highlight volunteer and academic achievements
It’s wise to mention any relevant volunteer work and academic projects that have made a significant impact.
Entry-level HR cover letter
Why this HR cover letter works:
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Starts with enthusiasm
Begins the letter by expressing their excitement about the role and the field of HR.
-
Showcases the scope of their experience
The cover letter mentions the end-to-end payroll process for over 500 employees to illustrate their capability.
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Mentions key soft skills
Emphasizes skills like self-motivation and collaboration, which are vital in HR roles.
Management-level HR cover letter
Why this HR cover letter works:
-
Incorporate high-impact statistics
This cover letter effectively demonstrates impact by citing data, such as achieving a 30% reduction in time-to-fill for open positions.
-
Detail major new programs
Discusses key programs or initiatives they’ve implemented, showcasing their managerial capabilities.
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Express gratitude
Conclude by thanking the employer for considering their application, reflecting professionalism and courtesy.
Career change HR cover letter
Why this HR cover letter works:
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Includes a visually intriguing header
This candidate uses a striking header to catch the reader’s attention.
-
Links previous experience to HR
The cover letter explains how the job seeker’s background in health care is relevant and beneficial to an HR role.
-
Praises the employer
Wisely reiterates the candidate’s admiration for the employer’s standing and why it aligns with their career aspirations.
Pair your cover letter with a resume
Pair your cover letter with an HR resume.
As an HR professional who has likely read countless resumes, you understand their importance in job applications. Why not create a resume that matches the style of your cover letter? This coordinated approach makes your entire application look well-thought-out and professional — essential in HR.
If you know how to write a resume, our collection of resume samples can serve as inspiration. These examples, created by professional resume writers, offer a clear idea of what a compelling HR resume should encompass.
For quick and effective resume creation, use our Resume Maker. It provides ready-to-use skills and phrases for each section, helping you craft a well-structured and formatted resume in minutes in the template of your choice.
Key takeaways for your HR cover letter
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Review some HR cover letters
Take some time to review our HR cover letter examples. They offer a solid foundation for your own letter. Feel free to use sections of these examples, tailoring them to your personal experience.
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Write a concise, compelling opening
Start your cover letter with a brief yet engaging introduction. Aim for a few sentences that pique the reader’s interest, setting the stage for more detailed content later.
-
Detail your experience
Here, align your skills and experiences with the job’s requirements. Showcase your unique talents, and if needed, briefly explain any gaps in your employment.
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Adapt your cover letter to your career path
Your cover letter should grow with your career. Ensure it reflects your current experience level and the specific HR role you aim for, from entry-level to seasoned professional.
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Include a coordinated resume
Remember, a resume is a vital part of your application. Align its style with your cover letter for a cohesive and professional presentation.
Resources to help you prepare for your interview
Don is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with more than 10 years’ experience creating digital content, including four years helping job seekers develop their careers. He holds an M.S. in Journalism from Northwestern University.
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