Protect your data

This site uses cookies and related technologies for site operation, and analytics as described in our Privacy Policy . You may choose to consent to our use of these technologies, reject non-essential technologies, or further manage your preferences.

  • Resume and Cover Letter
  • How to Address a Cover Letter...

How to Address a Cover Letter to Recruiter or Hiring Manager

5 min read · Updated on November 24, 2021

Lisa Tynan

Knowing how to effectively address a cover letter makes you a very visible and appealing candidate.

Did you know that the cardinal rule of cover letters is personalization? It impresses a hiring manager or recruiter because it tells them you took time to research the specific information for the letter rather than sending a generic version.

What many people forget, however, is that the greeting or salutation in a cover letter must also be personalized with the hiring professional's first and last name whenever possible.

There are several effective ways to find the hiring manager's name for your greeting — and some acceptable back-up strategies when you can't. Either way, knowing how to address a cover letter effectively can prevent you from ending your hiring chances before they even begin. 

When you know the hiring manager's name

More often than not, you'll be given the name of the hiring professional or the manager that you'll work for. Whoever it is, use their full name (first and last name) in the greeting. 

If you cannot definitively tell the gender of the hiring person, do not use a gender-based title such as “Mr.” or “Ms.” in the greeting. Instead just use the person's full name.

For example, Alex Johnson could be male or female. To avoid a gender mistake, use Dear Alex Johnson, Hello Alex Johnson, or simply Alex Johnson .

However, professional titles such as “Professor” or “Dr.” are definitely acceptable as a cover letter salutation and should be used as a sign of respect. Be on the lookout for these and other titles to include.

How to find a hiring manager's name for your cover letter

If you're not given the name of the hiring manager, here are some effective ways to discover their name by using:

The job description: Check this document for the hiring manager's name. While it's not generally listed, you never know. If it's not obvious, there's also a trick to quickly discover an email in the job description that might contain the name; while in the document, press Ctrl +F or run Command + F and search for the @ symbol.

An email address: If you discover an email address, it may not have a full name but rather a first initial and last name or just a first name like [email protected] or [email protected] . A Google search combining the person's name as shown in the email and the company name might find you the person's full name.

 A LinkedIn post: A name connected to the LinkedIn job posting is probably that of the hiring professional who posted it, so use that name in your greeting.

The supervisor's title: It's more likely that a job description will list who the new hire will report to — such as the director of accounting — without listing a name. In this case, there are several search options:

Search the company's website for listings of staff members by title.

Run an advanced LinkedIn or Google search for all directors of accounting at that specific company.

Check with your network for someone who might know the person's name or search the appropriate professional networking sites.

Contact the company by phone or email. Tell them you're applying for [job title] and want to address your cover letter to the right person.

In the end, this research can be the difference between making a great first impression and getting noticed for the position — or getting totally ignored by the hiring manager. 

Acceptable options in lieu of a name

If you try the steps above and come up empty, there are still some alternative greeting options that will put you in a professional light.

The idea is to show that you've read the job description and tailored your greeting based on the company department where the job is located, the hiring manager's title, or the team with which you'll potentially work.

Some good examples include:

Dear Head of Design

Hello IT Department

Dear Accounting Manager

To Company ABC Recruiter/Hiring Professional

Hello Marketing Hiring Team

Dear Customer Support Hiring Group

Dear Human Resources

If you still can't find any specific name or department information, go with “Dear Hiring Manager.” It sounds professional and it's not gender-specific. In fact, a recent survey of over 2000 companies by Saddleback College showed that 40 percent preferred “Dear Hiring Manager” as the best greeting when a manager's name can't be found. 

“Dear Sir or Madam” is another option that works because it's gender-neutral and respectful. However, it sounds a bit old-fashioned and may signal a hiring professional that you're an older worker or just not aware of other greeting options. It's perfectly acceptable, but the better choice is “Dear Hiring Manager.” 

In the end, an actual name or any of the alternative examples will let you stand out from the crowd, so do your best to find and use those whenever you can.

Never leave the greeting blank

Whatever information you may or may not find, it's important to never leave your greeting line blank.

A blank greeting line can make you come across as lazy or rude, or imply that you simply don't understand how to write a cover letter — all of which will immediately put you out of contention for the job. There's no reason to leave the greeting blank when there are so many options that can be used effectively.

When you spend the time and effort to personalize your cover letter, you don't want to come across as “just another candidate” by using a generic greeting or no greeting at all.

A personalized greeting will impress any hiring professional, increasing the chance they'll read your entire cover letter — and ask you for an interview.

Not sure if your cover letter is cutting it? Our writers don't just help you with your resume . 

Recommended Reading:

Do Hiring Managers Actually Read Cover Letters?

5 Things to Say in Your Cover Letter If You Want to Get the Job

How To Write a Cover Letter (With Example)

Related Articles:

How to Create a Resume With No Education

From Bland to Beautiful: How We Made This Professional's Resume Shine

See how your resume stacks up.

Career Advice Newsletter

Our experts gather the best career & resume tips weekly. Delivered weekly, always free.

Thanks! Career advice is on its way.

Share this article:

Let's stay in touch.

Subscribe today to get job tips and career advice that will come in handy.

Your information is secure. Please read our privacy policy for more information.

To Whom it May Concern? How to Address and End a Cover Letter

We’ve put together a few tips to help you personalize your cover letter, whether you know the hiring manager’s name or not.

author image

Customers Interviewed by:

amazon

In our modern age of personalization, To Whom It May Concern is both an antiquated and detached way to address a cover letter . It may also imply that you haven’t researched the company or that you assume the letter can be read by anyone. Below, we’ve put together a few tips to help you personalize your cover letter , whether you know the hiring manager’s name or not.

When it comes to addressing a cover letter, advice columns frequently spotlight these two pitfalls:

  • Mistake 1 : Failing to address your cover letter to a specific person
  • Mistake 2 : Addressing a cover letter to the wrong person

Most job postings don’t specify who will be reading your cover letter. This puts job seekers in a tricky situation. Fixing the first mistake could cause you to make the second. So what’s the best way to replace “To Whom It May Concern” on your cover letter?

Get instant feedback on your cover letter with Jobscan’s cover letter optimization tool. See it in action .

3 Key Tips for Addressing Your Cover Letter

1) don’t address your cover letter to the recruiter.

For many job openings, the first person you need to impress is a corporate recruiter. That doesn’t mean you should address your cover letter to them.

“Recruiters do not read cover letters,” a long-time healthcare recruiter told Jobscan . “Bottom line.”

That might be an overstatement — most don’t, some do — but many recruiters would admit that they aren’t the intended audience of a cover letter. “It’s mostly for the hiring manager,” said a recruiter in the non-profit industry. “For us [recruiters], it’s just an extra step in an already elongated process.”

The healthcare recruiter agreed: “If you’re sending it straight to a hiring manager who’s looking at a much lower number of applicants, they might actually read that.”

2) Search for the Hiring Manager’s Name

The best way to personalize your cover letter is to address the hiring manager by name. However, it can be difficult to identify the hiring manager, and your educated guess could cause you to address your cover letter to the wrong person. Here are some tips for finding the hiring manager.

Search the Company Website

Few job postings list the hiring manager by name but many will tell you the position to which you’d be reporting.

Addressing a cover letter: Use "reports to" to figure out who to address.

With this information, a little detective work can reveal the name of the hiring manager.

Start off by browsing the company’s website. Look for an about page, company directory, or contact page. These pages are frequently linked at the very bottom of the website. Companies that feature employees on their about page make it much easier to figure out who will be reading your cover letter.

Addressing a cover letter: Find the hiring manager on these types of pages.

You can also try searching the website. If the website doesn’t have a built-in search bar, use this syntax in Google:

“[position you’ll be reporting to]” site:company website

Addressing a cover letter: Use google to search for the hiring manager's name

This will reveal hard-to-find about pages or other mentions of the position in the company’s blog posts, press releases, and other pages.

Search LinkedIn

If a company doesn’t list the hiring manager on their website, LinkedIn is your next best resource.

Start off by searching for the company page on LinkedIn. Once you’re on the company’s LinkedIn page, click “See all X employees on LinkedIn” near the top.

Addressing a cover letter: Find the hiring manager on LinkedIn. See all employees on LinkedIn

Depending on the company size, you can either browse all positions or narrow your results by adding search terms to the search bar (e.g. “Marketing Manager”) and utilizing the “Current companies” filters on the right side of the screen.

Addressing a Cover Letter: Use LinkedIn filters to find the hiring manager's name

Search for the “reports to” position from the job listing. If it wasn’t provided in the listing, search for keywords related to your prospective department (e.g. “marketing”). If the company uses an intuitive corporate hierarchy  you should be able to determine who will be reading the cover letter.

Contact the Company Directly

There is nothing wrong with calling or emailing the company to ask for the name of the hiring manager. Be polite and honest with the administrative assistant or customer service representative. Explain that you’re about to apply for a job and you’d like to know who you should address in your cover letter.

If they aren’t able to provide an answer or transfer you to someone who knows, let it go. The last thing you need is word getting back to the hiring manager that you were pushy with one of their colleagues.

3) Use a More Personalized “To Whom it May Concern” Alternative

You can still personalize your cover letter, even when you don’t know the identity of the hiring manager. Instead of “To Whom It May Concern,” which casts a wide net and is specific to no one, try addressing your cover letter to one specific person.

The most generic version of this is:

Dear Hiring Manager,

But job seekers can often be more specific. Take a look at these examples:

Dear Customer Experience Manager, 

Dear Customer Experience Hiring Team Manager, 

Some other alternatives include addressing your cover letter to an entire department:

  • Dear Engineering Department,

Dear Engineering Team, 

OR addressing the entire team:

Hi Jobscan Team,

Dear Jobscan Team,

As with many aspects of the job application process, demonstrating that you put in some extra effort can make a difference. Doing some research before addressing a cover letter contributes to a positive first impression.

8 cover letter salutation examples

Here are eight standard cover letter openings you can choose from. Select the one that best suits the energy of the company you’re applying to and use either a specific name or department depending on the information you have available.

  • Hi Mr. Smith,
  • Hello Jobscan Team,
  • Dear Ms. Whittaker and Team,
  • Good morning, Mr. Kennedy
  • Good afternoon, Louise, 
  • To the Jobscan hiring manager, 

How to end a cover letter

Just as important as beginning your cover letter is ensuring you end it on a strong note. Your cover letter ending should not be underestimated in its ability to help you move forward in the hiring process. After making your case in the previous paragraphs, you need to end your cover letter with a strong call to action to entice the recruiter to invite you for a job interview.

Madeline Mann , an HR leader in the technology industry and creator of Self Made Millennial , says that while no conclusion will save a bad cover letter, it can distinguish you from another good candidate.

It’s all about enthusiasm, according to Madeline. “Companies want people who want them,” she says. If you can draw to the company’s values and show how interested in working with them you are, that’s a substantial advantage. You want to create a lasting impression by incorporating that enthusiasm in your cover letter ending.

“Companies want people who want them” – Madeline mann

A good conclusion, in fact, should reflect the rest of your cover letter.

Set up the end of your cover letter with a strategic middle section

If you want your cover letter ending to be effective, you first need to build momentum. Most recruiters and career coaches agree that by the time you get to the end of your cover letter, it needs to possess the following three elements:

  • It tells a story about yourself
  • It shows your value concretely
  • It calls the recruiter to action

Julia Reiter, a career coach based in Toronto, suggests that you lead up to your cover letter ending by showing that you understand the company’s current challenges and are equipped to solve them. This will make your cover letter call to action all the more effective.

Although the job description will give you information about what the company is looking to accomplish, it will not help you distinguish yourself from other applicants. Show the company you are willing to go the extra mile by researching the key industry challenges and the particular issues they might be facing (beyond the obvious ones).

For example, you can read articles from industry-related publications and get acquainted with the numbers and statistics about the particular business areas your company is engaged in. By being aware of the particular issues they are facing, you can more easily make your skillset and experiences relevant.

When you talk about your past experiences and accomplishments , make sure you mention the problems the company is facing. For example, if you are applying for a customer success manager position at a Software-as-a-Service company, a relevant issue might be high churn rates.

Instead of writing something like “my experience in customer success makes me confident I will be a great addition to your team,” write something like “When I worked at XYZ company, I was able to reduce the churn rate by 30%. With this experience and my deep knowledge of B2B consumer psychology, I am prepared to ensure we have one of the lowest churn rates in XYZ industry.”

End your letter with a call to action

You may be tempted to write that “I’m looking forward to hearing from you” for your cover letter ending. That isn’t a call to action. For Madeline, the end of a cover letter serves to give one last push and show interest and enthusiasm in a way that stands out.

Likewise, Julia says, “now that the company knows you are aware of their current challenges and are equipped to solve those challenges for them, don’t leave them hanging. Tell them how they can make your skills and experiences a reality on their team. What number can they reach you at for an interview?”

How do you conclude a cover letter? Here are 3 examples

  • “I’m excited to have the opportunity to talk about how I could join your team in its quest for XYZ value. I’m particularly thrilled about XYZ project and would love to know how I can contribute to it.
  • “I am keen on meeting with you to see what I can contribute to XYZ company as it moves on in its journey to XYZ goal. I am available at your convenience for a phone call or in-person meeting.”
  • “I would love to get your thoughts on what I mentioned. I am happy to hop on a phone call at your earliest convenience to discuss how I can help XYZ company with XYZ issue.”

Read more : Check out our cover letter examples page, which covers a wide range of jobs, industries, and situations.

Mistakes to avoid when ending a cover letter

The mistakes people make when they end their cover letter are often the same ones they made earlier in the piece. However, they can be particularly detrimental to your chances of landing an interview if they constitute the final impression a recruiter has of you.

When ending a cover letter, avoid:

Making it about yourself instead of the company: use sentence constructions that make the recruiter see how the company is going to benefit from hiring you. For example, try to use “you” or “we” instead of “I.”

Sounding generic or robotic: we’ve all seen these cover letters that end with the same plain paragraph. If you write one of those, the last impression you’re giving is not different from those given by all other applicants.

Selling yourself short: the conclusion is your last chance to show off the value you can bring to the company. Emphasize it and use it as a segue into your call to action.

How to end a cover letter with the appropriate salutations

Always remember that recruiters review hundreds of applications for each position. When you are competing with that many candidates, the slightest mistake will disqualify you immediately Although you may not think too much of the salutations, they can hurt your chance of landing an interview.

Make sure your salutations are formal and polite. You should be respectful not only by indicating your appreciation of the recruiter’s time but also by being concise. Do not overdo your salutations and do not employ informal greetings. “Sincerely,” “Thank you for your consideration,” “kind regards,” are all safe options.

When ending your cover letter, you want to balance confidence, respect, and appreciation.

17 cover letter ending examples

Depending on the energy of the business you are applying to, and your own personality, select one of the following 17 cover letter closing options.

  • Best wishes,
  • Sincere thanks,
  • Many thanks,
  • Thanks in advance,
  • Thank you for your consideration,
  • Thank you for your time,
  • Respectfully, 
  • Sincerely, 
  • Sincerely yours, 
  • Yours truly, 
  • Kind regards,
  • With best regards,
  • Looking forward to speaking with you, 
  • With gratitude,

One Final Important note: Cover letters aren’t what they say they are

Cover letters don’t introduce your resume, they supplement it.

In order to get your cover letter into the hands of a hiring manager who cares, your  resume has to get past the recruiter and, in many cases, the applicant tracking system they’re using.

Try analyzing your resume below to receive instant optimization tips and recruiter insights from Jobscan so that the time you spend crafting your cover letter isn’t a waste.

The keyword analysis also shows exactly what to focus on in your cover letter.

Jobscan Premium (one month free)  even has a cover letter scan feature.

Editor’s Note: A section of this article was originally written in a separate blog post by Léandre Larouche on June 9, 2020. It has been updated and combined with this article as of June 10, 2021.

author image

Related Articles

How to Write a Cover Letter

August 2, 2024

Human hand touching robot hand.

July 8, 2024

man sitting and typing at a laptop with a cup of coffee beside him

June 27, 2024

a job application printed

November 8, 2023

Illustration of ChatGPT asking "Can I help you?"

April 3, 2023

ChatGPT symbol superimposed on image of someone typing on keyboard.

March 28, 2023

how to end a cover letter

June 9, 2020

job_search

Join 2 million job seekers who get bi-weekly job search tips

Get insider knowledge and ready-to-use job-seeking tips and hacks delivered to your inbox.

How to Address a Cover Letter in 2024

Background Image

Yes, how you address your cover letter matters.

After all, this is the first thing the recruiter reads when going through your cover letter, and yes, there is a right and wrong way to do it.

In this article, we’re going to teach you how to address your cover letter in such a way that you leave a positive impression on any recruiter!

  • How to address a cover letter to a recruiter? (Casual or formal)
  • What title to use when addressing the hiring manager
  • How to address a cover letter without a contact person/to a company
  • How to address a cover letter without an address
  • How to address a cover letter in an email

How to Address a Cover Letter To a Recruiter (Casual or Formal)?

As we already mentioned, the way you address your cover letter is important because it is the very first thing recruiters see upon opening your cover letter. 

A well-formulated cover letter address means that you care enough to research the company (i.e. to find the hiring manager’s name and title) and that you show attention to detail. 

As such, you should always put some research into who you’re addressing your cover letter to and do so in a formal way.  

And yes, the formal part is important too. The recruiter isn’t your best friend - you want to maintain a sense of professionalism.

If this is how you address the recruiter in your cover letter:

  • What’s up Hiring Manager
  • Hi there Hiring Team

Then you say goodbye to the job.

Now, you’re probably wondering, how can I find out whom to address my cover letter to?

That’s what we’re about to teach you:

Who Am I Addressing My Cover Letter To?

Here are some tricks to find the full name of the hiring manager: 

  • Check the job listing. The job listing may have information about the recruiter or the department doing the hiring. Make sure to read through the entire job listing, as it might not be at an entirely obvious place.
  • Check the company website. Some websites feature the names of the hiring managers or heads of departments that may go through your cover letter. Alternatively, LinkedIn is another place where you can look for this information.
  • Check the company’s LinkedIn. You can look up who works in the company you’re applying for on their LinkedIn page.
  • Ask around. Do you have friends that work for the company? They could provide you with valuable inside info.

To avoid making a bad impression, head over to our guide on cover letter mistakes to learn about what NOT to do when writing your cover letter.  

job search masterclass novoresume

Addressing a Cover Letter With a Name

By now, you have probably found the hiring manager’s full name and gender. With this information available, it’s best to address the hiring manager formally, as follows: 

  • Dear Mr. Brown,
  • Dear Miss Fitzpatrick,
  • Dear Mrs. Lockhart,
  • Dear Ms. Walters,

If, for some reason, you are unsure about the person’s title, gender, marital status, or preferred pronouns, just address them using their entire name to avoid any mistakes. For example:

  • Dear Alex Brown, 
  • Dear Blair Fitzpatrick,
  • Dear Jesse Lockhart,
  • Dear Madison Walters,

Addressing someone with a title 

Now, if you found out that the hiring manager has a professional or academic title, then it’s more appropriate to address them using that title. If, for example, the hiring manager has a Ph.D., then it’s more respectful to address them as “Dr. Last Name,” instead of “Mr. Last Name.”  

Here are some professional titles and how they’re abbreviated: 

  • A professor is Prof. 
  • A reverend is Rev. 
  • A sergeant is Sgt. 
  • Honorable is Hon. 

If, however, you are uncertain about how a title is abbreviated, then avoid it altogether. 

Here are a few examples to give you an idea: 

  • Dear Prof. Welsch,
  • Dear Director Smith,
  • Dear Rev. Owen,

Dear Dr. Leonard,

When addressing women and you don’t know their marital status, always go with Ms., because it doesn’t comment on marital status. Some women prefer not to be addressed with Miss or Mrs. even when they’re married, so sticking with Ms. is the best choice. 

Want to learn more cover letter tips ? Our guide has all you need to ace your cover letter!  

How to Address a Cover Letter Without a Contact Person

It might happen that, no matter how hard you search, you can’t find the name of the hiring manager or department head that will read your cover letter.

In that case, you can address your cover letter to the department, faculty, or the company.

  • Dear Software Development Hiring Team,
  • Dear Customer Service Department Hiring Team,
  • Dear Head of the Literature Faculty,
  • Dear Director of Marketing,
  • Dear Human Resources Recruitment Team,

Alternatively, if you don’t have enough information either about the department or the team, you can opt for addressing the cover letter directly to the company’s hiring staff, as follows: 

Dear [Company Name] Hiring Team 

Dear [Company Name] Recruiting Staff

If all else fails (meaning, you don’t know the name of the department head or even the exact department, in addition to the recruiter) then you can use one of the good, old-fashioned:

Dear Hiring Manager,

...but NOT the impersonal and way outdated “To whom it may concern” and “Dear Sir/Madam.” 

Starting a cover letter can be challenging. Our guide can show you how to start a cover letter that will get you results from the get-go. 

How to Format the Company’s Address

Before you reach the salutation, you have to make sure that the header with the recipient’s contact information is formatted correctly. 

It might not be the deciding point of whether you’ll secure an interview or not, but it will cost you points if it’s off. 

So, the first thing you want to do is add your name and surname on the upper left side of the cover letter. Underneath, you should write your professional title (if applicable), your email , and your phone number . 

Now, after you’ve also added the date, you should leave one more space and add the recipient’s contact information and, most importantly, the company’s address. 

It should look something like this on your cover letter: 

how to address a cover letter

When You Can’t Find the Company’s Address 

Some companies might have several addresses listed (as per their branches, for example), or even none at all. 

Since an application that doesn’t have an address line could end up lost or misplaced, make sure you do one of the following before skipping the company’s address completely:

  • Check all your resources, (pretty much like when you were looking for the hiring manager’s name) to find the company’s address. 
  • Use the company’s headquarter address. This is sometimes easier to find, especially if the company has several branches. 
  • Use the P.O. Box number for the company. This is not as specific as an actual address line, but if all else fails, it’s still something. 

Frequently, you’ll be asked to submit your job application (including your cover letter) electronically, or by email. In those cases, you can skip the address line altogether. 

Here’s how you’d go about addressing a cover letter in an email.

How to Address an Email Cover Letter

If you’re sending your job application through email, chances are you’ll need to format your cover letter in the body of the email, or as an attachment along with your resume.

First and foremost when you’re addressing a cover letter in an email is the subject line, which should be between 6-10 words long. 

Considering that hiring managers receive countless emails daily, you want to make sure that yours is a job application immediately. And the way to do that is straight through the subject line, which should indicate exactly the position you’re applying for and your name so that it’s easier to find through the recruiter’s swarmed mailbox. 

Here’ what we mean by that:

  • Subject Line:   John Doe - Software Development Job Application 
  • Subject Line: John Doe - Job Application for Marketing Manager Position   
  • Subject Line: John Doe - Stock Manager Job Application 

Afterward, if you’re including your cover letter in the body of the email (as opposed to attaching it as a document), begin by using a salutation, add space, and start your letter. 

If someone referred you for the position, make sure to mention that in the subject line of your email as well as in your opening paragraph.  

So, let’s see how all the above plays out in practice: 

Subject Line: John Doe - Carl Jacob’s Referral for Software Developer

I was very glad that Mr. Jacobs, a long-time partner at your firm who also happens to be my mentor from college, referred me for the Software Developer position. 

Do you want your style, personality, and overall personal brand to shine through your application? With Novorésumé, you can match your cover letter with your resume to make a lasting impression! 

matching resume and cover letter

Key Takeaways 

And that’s all there is when it comes to addressing a cover letter! You should feel much more confident in doing so by now. 

Either way, let’s go over the main points we covered throughout the article: 

  • Your cover letter address should be formal and well-researched. Don’t address the hiring manager with “hey,” “what’s up,” “hi there,” or even the old-fashioned “Dear Sir/Madam” and “To Whom It May Concern.”
  • Always try to find the hiring manager’s full name and professional title through the company’s website, LinkedIn, by calling, or by asking someone who works there.
  • If you know the hiring manager’s name, go with “Dear Mr./Miss Last Name,” but if you’re unsure about their gender, marital status, or preferred pronoun, just address them using their full name.
  • If the recruiter has a professional or academic title, it’s more appropriate to address them using their title.
  • If you can’t find the contact person’s name, then address the department, faculty, or company (i.e. Dear Microsoft Hiring Team , or Dear Software Development Recruitment Team ).

Related Readings: 

  • Do I Need a Cover Letter in 2024
  • Entry-Level Cover Letter
  • Cover Letter for Internship
  • How to Write a Cover Letter in 2024

cookies image

To provide a safer experience, the best content and great communication, we use cookies. Learn how we use them for non-authenticated users.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience

  • Submit a requirement
  • Permanent Recruitment
  • Temporary Recruitment
  • Executive Search
  • Overseas Hiring
  • Seasonal staff
  • Search Jobs
  • Why Choose Us?
  • Register with us
  • Candidate Advice
  • Graduate Recruitment Scheme
  • Administrative & Office
  • Technical & Engineering
  • Hospitality
  • Food & Agriculture
  • Office Locations
  • Case Studies
  • Meet the team
  • Environment
  • Work for us
  • Reports & Whitepapers
  • Refer A Friend

Call: 01242 505 400  Or  Email us

Safehands group

  • Safehands Franchise
  • Safehands Recruitment
  • Safehands Healthcare
  • RE Recruitment

How to write a cover letter to a recruitment agency

How to write a cover letter to a recruitment agency

How to write a cover letter to a recruitment agency

Writing a cover letter to a recruitment agency requires a different approach to that of writing a cover letter for a job application. But it is an important part of the job-hunting process and shouldn’t be overlooked. In this blog we give you 8 top tips on how to write a cover letter to a recruitment agency.

Why write a cover letter to a recruitment agency?

Job-seekers generally write a cover letter to a recruitment agency when they are looking to move job roles. They will usually be responding to a recruitment agency job advert or sending a cold cover letter, speculatively approaching an employer to seek out opportunities that have not been advertised.

If you write a cover letter to a recruitment agency responding to an agency job advert, make sure you tailor your letter to the advert. Gear the letter to show how you meet the job specifications and how your experience and qualifications show that you are suitable for the role.

If you write a cover letter speculatively, then keep in mind that recruitment agencies are often inundated with unsolicited CVs and cover letters. You need to make sure yours is the one that stands out and gets read. 

How to make sure your speculative cover letter stands out

1. keep it short and sharp.

Recruitment agencies are fast-paced environments which means recruiters won’t have much time to dedicate to reading unsolicited cover letters. However, that doesn’t mean it’s not worth trying. The golden rule is to keep it short – no more than half a page – and sharp – get your main points across in the first two sentences.

2. Narrow your focus

Even though you may be applying speculatively, don’t be too broad. It’s much easier for a recruiter to place someone who has specific expertise and experience that relates directly to a job vacancy they need to fill. And if you can highlight this in the first paragraph then your letter has got a good chance of being read.

3. Start with a killer intro

Think about how many unsolicited covering letters a recruitment consultant gets sent every day. To stand a chance of being read, yours has to sell you and your suitability from the outset. If you’ve been given a referral from someone, mention that in the first sentence – it shows that you are likely to be a trustworthy candidate and the personal connection can be a good selling point.

4. Pinpoint your expertise

Don’t do waffle – the recruiter will spend around 5 seconds on your opening sentence so if you don’t excite them in that time, chances are they won’t read on. You may have just the right skills they are looking for, but if these are buried in the second half of your recruitment letter, these skills become worthless. 

5. Honesty is the best policy

We’ve all watched ‘The Apprentice’ Interviews  – it NEVER pays to lie in your application process! Be honest with your skillset, your position in the company and your next career goal. Similarly, don’t oversell your qualifications or any training you’ve had.

6. Highlight your successes

Don’t just list your skills and qualifications – talk about how you’ve achieved success in your current or previous positions. Share quantifiable achievements that showcase your ability to deliver results. These examples help recruitment agencies understand your potential value to their clients.

7. Write in proper business speak

Txt talk this isnt lol! You might have forgotten how to use punctuation and grammar with your mates, but when it comes to writing a cover letter to a recruitment agency, old school rules apply. That means being coherent in what you say and how you say it. Keep the writing concise but fluid, and don’t forget to check your spelling, grammar and punctuation.

8. Don’t forget the details

In your final proofread, make sure you’ve included all of your contact information and that it is correct. Finish on a positive note – reiterate your enthusiasm for working with the agency and express your hope for a successful collaboration. Indicate your availability for further discussion. 

Need more help on writing a cover letter to a recruitment agency?

At RE Recruitment, we’ve got lots of info and advice on helping job seekers with their next move. We understand that writing a cover letter can be a daunting task, so we’ve provided guidance on how to prepare a covering video as well as a covering letter. 

If you need any more help with how to write a cover letter to a recruitment agency, then please do get in touch. One of our team will be happy to take you through the steps .

Share article

  • Blog categories

Client Advice

  • Hiring Advice
  • Interview Advice
  • People Management
  • RE Recruitment News
  • Starting a new job
  • Uncategorized
  • Working In Recruitment

You may also be interested in…

getty-images-BlNGf5d2IIE-unsplash-scaled.jpg?w=1024&h=683&scale

The Top 10 Employment Law Reform Proposals

The Top 10 Employment Law Reform Proposals The Labour Party in the UK has proposed a comprehensive set of employment…

christina-wocintechchat-com-c-mgSuxqpzA-unsplash-scaled.jpg?w=1024&h=684&scale

Is uncertainty causing a rise in temporary staffing?

According to the SIA, “permanent placements in June fell at the steepest rate in three months as general election uncertainty…

a busy London street scene during the commute to work

Newsletter Sign up

Stay up to date with the latest employer insights & events

" * " indicates required fields

Privacy Overview

CookieDurationDescription
cookielawinfo-checbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-advertisement1 yearSet by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin, this cookie is used to record the user consent for the cookies in the "Advertisement" category .
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.

The 3 Rules of Addressing Your Cover Letter in 2023

person sitting at a table, typing on a laptop with a dog sitting on the table between their arms

You’ve finally sat down to write that cover letter (good for you!), but immediately you run into a roadblock: How do you even start the darn thing? Who do you address it to? Should you use Mr. or Ms.? Do you include a first name? And what if you’ve searched high and low, but can’t find the hiring manager’s name? 

Don’t fret! Follow these three rules for cover letter salutation salvation.

Rule #1: Address your cover letter to the hiring manager using a formal, full-name salutation (if possible).

For a cover letter, you should always default to addressing it to the hiring manager for the position you’re applying to. Unless you know for sure that the culture of the company is more casual, use the hiring manager’s first and last name. You can include a title, such as “Mr.” or “Ms.” (never Mrs. or Miss). But if you aren’t crystal clear on whether to use “Mr.” or “Ms.” and can’t find their pronouns with a little Google and social media searching (and you don’t have an easy way out with a “Dr.”), just drop the title. Omitting it is infinitely better than accidentally misgendering someone .

Most letters I see still use the “Dear” greeting, though I’ve seen a growing trend of people dropping it and starting with “Hello” or just the name. Any of these works. The most important part is having the actual name . Never use “ To Whom it May Concern ” or “Dear or Sir or Madam”—nothing could be more generic (not to mention archaic). Your cover letter could be the first opportunity you have to make an impression on the hiring manager, so make sure you show that you did your research .

For example, you can address your cover letter by saying:

  • Dear Ms. Jacklyn O’Connell,
  • Hello Mr. Kevin Chen,
  • Dear Niko Adamos,
  • Hello Jean Butler,
  • Tiana Richards,

Rule #2: If you don’t know the hiring manager, guess.

Sometimes, even after hours of online searching ( try these tips ), you still might not be able to definitively figure out who exactly the hiring manager for the position you’re applying for is—and that’s OK.

If you can only find a list of the company’s executive team, use the head of the department for the position you’re applying for. In the end, no one will fault you for addressing the letter higher up than necessary. This approach is definitely better than not using a name in your cover letter, because it still shows the time and effort you took to find out who the department head is.

Rule #3: Be as specific as possible.

So you’ve done your due diligence and after an exhaustive search—nothing. You just can’t find a single name to address your cover letter to. If that’s the case, don’t worry. The company is likely privately held with no reason to share who its employees are—and, more importantly, is aware of this.

If this is the case and you don’t have a name to use, try to still be as specific as possible in your greeting. Consider using “Senior Analyst Hiring Manager” or “Research Manager Search Committee”—something that shows that you’ve written this letter with a particular audience in mind and aren’t just sending the same generic letter for every job opening.

For example:

  • Dear Software Developer Search Committee,
  • Hello XYZ Co Marketing Team,
  • Dear Junior Accountant Hiring Manager,

Ultimately, you want your cover letter to convey your interest in the position. To start off on the right note, make your salutation as specific as possible—ideally with the name of the hiring manager. Of course, that can’t always happen, but as long as the effort is clearly made, you’ll be showing whoever reads your cover letter that you’ve put time into your application and are truly excited about the opportunity. 

Regina Borsellino contributed writing, reporting, and/or advice to this article.

how to address a cover letter to recruitment agency

  • EXPLORE Random Article
  • Happiness Hub

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Recruitment Consultant

Last Updated: May 20, 2023 Approved

This article was co-authored by Katherine Kirkinis, Ed.M., MA . Katherine Kirkinis is a Career Coach and Psychotherapist who has served as a career expert for Forbes, Medium, Best Life, and Working Mother Magazine, and as a diversity and inclusion expert for ATTN and Quartz. She specializes in working with issues of career, identity, and indecision. She has doctoral-level training in career counseling and career assessment and has worked with hundreds of clients to make career decisions through career assessments. She is pursuing a doctoral degree at The University of Albany, SUNY where her work focuses on diversity and inclusion, racism in the workplace, and racial identity. She is a published author and has been featured in academic journals as well as popular media outlets. Her research has been presented at 10+ national APA conferences since 2013. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, several readers have written to tell us that this article was helpful to them, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 779,509 times.

Recruitment consultants work with businesses to match job seekers to open positions. When they believe a certain candidate will match a particular job, they forward the applicant's information to the business for further review. Writing a cover letter to a recruiter is your first step in getting a job, and you can follow these steps to make sure that cover letter is perfect.

Sample Cover Letters

how to address a cover letter to recruitment agency

Writing Your Cover Letter

Step 1 Address the recipient properly.

  • If you're unaware of the recipient's gender, then use the person's full name after "Dear."

Step 2 State why you're writing the letter.

  • The opening sentence should read something like: "I am writing with interest in being matched with a job in sales and customer service."

Step 3 Introduce yourself to the recipient.

  • A good introduction would be: "I am a recent graduate of Rutgers University, where I majored in management."

Step 4 State the job you're interested in.

  • Recruiters may or may not advertise the companies that they work with. If the recruiter you're writing to has made this information public, mention the specific companies you're interested in working for. This demonstrates that you're a serious candidate who has done research into the job you want.

Step 5 State your skills and interests.

  • Remember that this section shouldn't just restate your resume; the recruiter already has your resume. What it should do is elaborate on some points that don't get fully covered on your resume. For example, you may have done an internship for a semester. This is only one line on your resume, but you can elaborate on how it gave you invaluable skills and experience for the job you're seeking.
  • You can also bring up experience that isn't on your resume. For example, tutoring your neighbor might not be suitable for a resume, but you can mention how this experience gave you a sense of responsibility, which will help you in the job you're seeking.

Step 6 State how your skills and interests are related to the job you want.

  • Look at the transferable skills you've attained. For example, if you're looking for a job in sales, you might not think your stock worker position at a retail store gave you much experience. But if you dealt with customers, that means you've gained customer service experience. These skills easily transfer over to dealing with potential clients for your company.
  • If you've never had a job, things you've done in school can also be applicable. You might have given a classroom presentation. That means you have public speaking experience. Other classroom experience that gives you job skills are the ability to meet deadlines, multitask, and work under pressure.

Step 7 Restate your enthusiasm in the conclusion.

  • Your closing should sound something like this: "As you can see from my qualifications, I am an ideal candidate for a position in sales and marketing. I greatly look forward to hearing from you and speaking further. Thank you very much for your time and consideration."

Step 8 Proofread your letter.

Getting Ready

Step 1 Decide what kind of job you're looking for.

  • What was your area of education?
  • What are your past experiences?
  • Have you had a job in the past that you enjoyed?
  • Consider whether you intend this as a career or as a temporary job. You might be more willing to compromise over a temporary job than over a lifelong career.

Step 2 Investigate what kinds of jobs the recruiter usually matches with.

  • Recruiters will typically say so if they recruit for certain jobs and positions, so make sure you read their website or posting carefully.

Step 3 Put your own resume together.

  • Read Make a Resume for tips on putting together a strong resume.

Step 4 Look over your resume.

  • Place your name, title, and address on the top left of the paper.
  • Place the date below this.
  • Put the person's name, title, and address below this.
  • Address the person appropriately. Start with "Dear Mr." or "Dear Mrs."
  • Have 1-inch margins around the paper and use single spacing. Don't indent, just use a double space in between paragraphs.
  • Use an easy-to-read font such as Times New Roman or Arial, in 12-point font.
  • End with "Sincerely," then leave 4 lines so you can manually sign your name. Below this, type your name and title.

Expert Q&A

Katherine Kirkinis, Ed.M., MA

  • Always use standard fonts, margins, and paper when writing a cover letter. Your originality should come through in the content, not the form of your letter. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • Do not take on an overly conversational tone. Although your letter should sound good when read aloud, it should be professional and polite. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

Become Taller Naturally

Expert Interview

how to address a cover letter to recruitment agency

Thanks for reading our article! If you'd like to learn more about writing a cover letter, check out our in-depth interview with Katherine Kirkinis, Ed.M., MA .

  • ↑ https://writing.wisc.edu/Handbook/CoverLetters.html
  • ↑ Katherine Kirkinis, Ed.M., MA. Career Coach & Psychotherapist. Expert Interview. 7 March 2023.
  • ↑ http://career-advice.monster.com/resumes-cover-letters/cover-letter-tips/5-simple-steps-to-a-successful-cover-letter-hot-jobs/article.aspx
  • ↑ Jonathan Soormaghen. Career Coach. Expert Interview. 7 October 2020.
  • ↑ https://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/outside-voices-careers/2010/11/30/the-6-worst-ways-to-pick-a-career
  • ↑ http://www.letterwritingguide.com/request.htm
  • ↑ http://businessletterformat.org/

About this article

Katherine Kirkinis, Ed.M., MA

To write a cover letter for a recruitment consultant, start by placing your name, title, and address in the top left corner. Next, include the date one line below that, and the recipient's name, title, and address one line below the date. Then, greet the person with the salutation “Dear” followed by their full name. In the body of the letter, state the position you’re interested in, along with your relevant skills and interests. Close the letter by reinstating why you’re a good choice, and sign the letter “Sincerely,” followed by your name. For more cover letter writing tips, like how to format using proper spacing and margins, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

Reader Success Stories

Blessing Peter

Blessing Peter

May 14, 2020

Did this article help you?

Kelly Fitzgerald

Kelly Fitzgerald

Jul 6, 2017

Azhar Mehboob

Azhar Mehboob

Aug 10, 2017

Qama Zaman

Dec 19, 2016

Debora Frederick

Debora Frederick

Nov 24, 2020

Become Taller Naturally

  • About wikiHow
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info

Cover Letter Ninjas

Sample Cover Letter to Recruitment Agency

' src=

No matter what you do for a living, having the right recruiter in your corner can help you land the job of your dreams. In fact, some companies only hire through recruitment agencies. So going through one is your only chance of breaking into the industry.

Yes, some recruiters work with all job seekers. However, the truth is that the best recruiters with connections to high paying jobs are selective. You’ll need to impress them with a great cover letter and resume. That’s why we’re providing you with these helpful writing tips, followed by a sample cover letter to a recruitment agency.

How Do I Write a Cover Letter to a Recruitment Agency?

Your cover letter structure will slightly differ depending on whether you are approaching a recruitment agency out of the blue or follow-up with a recruiter you’ve connected with earlier (e.g. via LinkedIn). 

In the first case, your cover letter will be somewhat more formal, and perhaps even somewhat generic since you are not petitioning for a specific position. 

If you do, however, was invited to apply for a job by a connection, keep your cover letter more personalized and aligned with the scope of positions you are after. 

In both cases, however, it helps to follow this simple structure for writing a cover letter:

  • Introduce yourself and mention your credentials in the opening paragraph
  • Detail the type of work you are looking for and your most marketable skills in the body 
  • Close the cover letter with a call to action offering the recruiter to meet up for in-person or over video conferencing. 

Now let’s take a closer look at how to put the above framework to practice.

How to Address a Cover Letter to Recruiter Agency

Cover letter salutation is the first “stumbling block” for many candidates. Since you are approaching an agency, not a direct employer, it may be hard to determine who will be reviewing your letter.

Respectively, go with a “safe option” and address your cover letter to a recruiter agency by:

  • Using the company business name 
  • Mentioning the point of contact listed on the website
  • Referring to a recruiter you may know

Pro tip: You can try email lookup tools such as Voila Norbert to find email addresses, associated with the recruiting agency. Then choose an email, associated with a specific person, and email them directly. 

If you read our other posts about writing cover letters , you already know that your cover letter is your chance to share your enthusiasm for a particular job and show that you did some research on the employer. In this case, however, you’ll want to ignore that advice entirely.

With a recruiter, stick with the relevant facts only, and keep your letter short . That’s not to say that you should be abrupt or terse. It’s just that your recruiter is very busy. They want to quickly determine whether they can help you. Then, they want to get to work doing just that. Save any information about being a cultural fit, or excited about the opportunity to work for a particular company for later in the process.

Claire W.

State Your Needs Clearly

The more direct you are about your needs and expectations, the better your recruiter can help you. Outline details such as:

  • Your willingness to travel
  • Companies that interest you
  • Salary expectations
  • Your preference regarding contract/temp work.

No recruiter wants to waste their time on submitting you for jobs that will not interest you. Finally, don’t forget to let them know if you are willing to relocate, and where you are interested in going.

Try something like this:

‘Because I have more than a decade of experience as a Systems Analyst, I’m only interested in jobs that pay at least 75 dollars per hour. I am willing to travel, as long as the benefits include an attractive per diem, and I can be home at least 20% of the time. My preference is to accept permanent positions, but I will consider contract to hire.’

Outline Your Availability

A recruiting agency employee will want to know two key pieces of information. First, when will you be available to start a new position. If you’ll need two weeks after accepting an offer, let them know that. Otherwise, give a firm date if you can. Next, you’ll need to include when you are available for interviews. Here’s an example:

‘I am prepared to give notice at my current employer immediately upon accepting an offer. However, to properly close out any open projects, I will need to provide 30 days’ notice. ’

Disclose Any Conflicts

This is a tough one. Every recruiter is different. Some will absolutely not work with you if you are working with other headhunters . Others will request that you agree to drop other recruiters and work only with them. There’s a reason for this. It looks bad for a recruiter when they double submit a job seeker to a client.

As part of your cover letter, be certain that you disclose the names of any other recruiting agencies you’ve worked with, and where you’ve submitted your resume within the past six months. You can do this with a simple bulleted list:

“I’ve worked with the following recruiters and employers.

  • Data Staffing
  • Eastern Missouri Technical Recruiting
  • Sacramento Board of Education

Cover Letter Example to Recruitment Agency in .docx Format

cover letter sample to a recruitment agency in Word format

Download example (Word version)

Sample Cover Letter to Recruitment Agency – Text Format

Our mutual friend, Chuck Lewis suggested that I reach out to you. My name is Ellen Ninja, and I am a programmer analyst with six years of experience in software development for the banking and finance industry. I am interested in making a change and would like to find a job as a software developer in the South Florida area. Your office comes highly recommended by Chuck and several other IT specialists in my network. I believe that my qualifications will make it reasonably easy for you to find a placement for me.

To help you get started, here is a brief list of my needs, expectations, and potential conflicts of interest:

  • Salary requirements: $75-85K annually with benefits
  • Willing to relocate to any larger metropolitan area south of Miami
  • Have worked with RH Associates in the past 6 months
  • Interested in Working with Banks, FinTech companies, credit bureaus, and retail companies.

I am currently between contracts. Because of this, I can start any new position immediately.

Thank you in advance for adding me to your list of job seekers. I’ve included my resume as well as a letter of recommendation. I look forward to speaking with you further.

Ellen Ninja

Should I Send a Cover Letter to a Recruiter?

As a rule of thumb, you do. It might not always be a standard cover letter though, but rather a letter of introduction (LOI), explaining your professional background, key qualifications, availability, and jobs you are looking to get. If it’s your first time contacting the recruiter, it’s best to keep the above brief and also inquire whether they are currently looking to fill in any roles in your industry and what would be the best way to forward them your resume.

“Thank you for connecting with me. I’ve noticed that your firm specializes in hospitality staffing. So I was wondering if you are looking for full-time bartenders at the moment. I’m a winner of the National Bartending Competition 2019 and previously worked at the Hilton Hotel, as well as catered at private events for GM, Siemens, and a number of other private customers. What would be the best way to send you over my resume?”

What Should I Say in an Email to a Recruiter?

Once you get the recruiter’s private email, be sure to follow up with all the information they requested in their earlier message (if you’ve communicated earlier).

If you happen to have been passed on a recruiter email by a friend or colleague, start with a more general introduction. Include the following details:

  • Reason for contacting
  • How you obtained their contact details
  • Brief summary of your skills and work experience
  • Current job status
  • Availability 

Most will get back to you with either a more detailed intake form or request a copy of your resume and other relevant documents. Also, most will briefly explain the next steps and any other terms of collaborating with them or the agency they represent.

Final Tip: Do Your Research

If you submit a cover letter with salary requirements that are too low or too high, potential recruiters won’t consider you in any case. The same is true if you show interest in a company or industry for which you are a poor fit. Before you send your cover letter, be sure that your salary requirements and other expectations align with reality.

Other Cover Letter Samples

A compelling electrical engineering cover letter example, a detailed data analyst cover letter example, academic cover letter example: actionable writing tips and tricks, proven pilot cover letter example.

A huge collection of cover letters created by a ninja team of writers and career advisors. Learn how to write, style and file cover letters that employers actually enjoy reading.

© Copyright 2023 Cover Letter Ninjas

  • Privacy Policy
  • Cookie Policy
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Disclosure Policy

LOG IN OR SIGN UP

  • Talent Agents

How To Write A Cover Letter For A Recruitment Agency

Browse our news catgories.

how to address a cover letter to recruitment agency

Recent posts

Tracking Hubspot live chat forms in GTM

nichemarket Advice

Track HubSpot Live Chats Using GTM

03 August 2024

Tricks for your vaping game

Shopaholics

Tips And Tricks To Elevate Your Vaping Game

01 August 2024

planning a trip in UAE

Hit the Road

How To Organize A Comfortable Holiday In UAE

Search console 1000 error

What Is the Search Console /1000 URL Error

29 July 2024

Popular posts

Trending Music Hashtags

Extravaganza

Trending Music Hashtags To Get Your Posts Noticed

24 August 2018

Fix iPhone only charging at angle

How To Fix iPhone/iPad Only Charging In Certain Positions

05 July 2020

Trending Wedding Hashtags

Trending Wedding Hashtags To Get Your Posts Noticed

18 September 2018

Voucher Codes Online South Africa

Money Talks

How To Find Coupons & Vouchers Online In South Africa

28 March 2019

13 September 2021 | 0 comments | Posted by Effie J Franks in Talent Agents

Cover letter examples for recruitment agency submissions

Your resume is accompanied by a cover letter. Its goal is to introduce you to a potential employer. If your resume provides a holistic view of your experience and qualifications, the letter allows you to speak individually to the recruiter and focus their attention on the qualities that make your resume particularly interesting to that employer.

Your ultimate goal is to draw attention to your CV and get a response to it. A good resume increases the chances that a recruiter will read your cover letter. You can use professional resume help to you get a well-structured resume and get your dream job.

The letter should be succinct: usually, two to three paragraphs summarising the main arguments for considering you for a particular position.

Contacts. In the upper right corner of the sheet, enter your contact information: first name, last name, address, phone number, e-mail.

Address. Start by addressing a specific person at the company. Try to find out the name of the person responsible for personnel selection. This can be done by going to the website of the employing company or by calling the office and getting the data from the secretary. It is advisable that the cover letter is not addressed to an unspecified addressee such as "HR Manager" or "Company Secretary", as this makes it less likely to end up in the right hands.

Pay special attention to check the spelling of the recipient's personal details: a wrong letter in the last name can considerably reduce your chances of getting a good job.

Main text. Write why you're writing to this specific person and why you want to work for this company at the start of the letter. Here you can also remind about previous contacts - a meeting, a phone conversation.

"Dear Mr Smith,

I met a representative of your company Mrs Jackson at an audit conference. She advised me to apply to you about the vacancy of a financial consultant. My thesis is about retail software, and I repeatedly relied on data published by your company."

The more "leads" you leave at the start of your text, the more likely it is that your cover letter and resume will be scrutinized.

Then, in a few sentences, explain why you want to work in this particular position. Explain why you think you are worthy of the position and how you can be of service to the company. When talking about your skills, don't repeat your whole resume, but put the emphasis on the parts that are particularly important for the position. An example will be if you have worked in the same occupation or if you have taken a course in the same field.

Tip. Your arguments should not look like bragging. Try to fit them into 1-2 sentences.

Here show your knowledge of the employing company and its advantages. You should demonstrate your advantages as a competent candidate and show your interest in the specific employer.

Tip. Be sincere and try to find objective advantages of the company. Rude flattery will make a negative impression.

At the end of the letter, indicate how to contact you, write that you are ready to answer any additional questions. You can end your letter with the traditional "Regards, [first name, last name].

6 Tips to Write a Great Cover Letter

1. create a personalized letter..

The cover letter should definitely be written for a specific company and job opening. It would help if you tried to put yourself in the shoes of a potential employer, read the letter and decide whether "your company" would benefit from an employee like you.

2. Gather as much information as you can about the employing company.

You must research the website of the company to which you are sending your resume. Do not forget to look for references in the press, on the Internet; collect as much information about the company as possible - for example, its market position, financial success rates, data on new products and services, the latest achievements.

Your knowledge will help you articulate your benefits more easily and clearly and show your interest in the position.

Who owns the information owns the world.

3. The letter should not be a paraphrase but a supplement to your resume.

It is best if the cover letter focuses the reader's attention on the details of the resume, which are particularly interesting for this job.

4. Be original.

Imagine that a few dozen more candidates just like you will write about good education and extensive work experience. Try to stand out by pointing out special skills and differences that will be useful for the position. Consider what your hobbies or personal qualities might help you in your job duties. For example, a candidate for an Internet project manager position might point out that they created a fan site for a favourite music band when they were a student.

5. Writing style.

State your information clearly, concisely, and clearly. Avoid heavy language and complex sentences; do not use abbreviations and conventions.

Caution: Avoid unnecessary pretentiousness. Poetic epigraphs or too much enthusiasm for different fonts can cause confusion and make it difficult to read. The originality of your letter should not go beyond business style.

6. Don't forget about appearance and literacy.

Check your letter for spelling and stylistic errors, make sure it is properly formatted and easy to read (choose an easy-to-read font such as Arial 12 or Times New Roman 12). The cover letter will allow the employer to make a first impression of you. Make sure it is flawless!

An Example Of A Cover Letter To Accompany A Resume For A Job Opening

Dear (full name of the person you are addressing),

Your company is one of the largest companies in London for the production and sale of upholstered furniture. Just recently I saw on the website of your company's vacancy - Director of Production, and I would like to offer my candidacy for this position.

After reading the requirements listed in the vacancy, I'm sure I can qualify for this position, because for the last four years I have been working at one of the largest manufacturing and trading companies manufacturing upholstered furniture in Manchester, the post - Director of Production.

My resume can be found in the attached file.

Many thanks and best wishes,

[first name, last name]

An Example Of A Cover Letter For A Resume Of A Lawyer

Your company has posted a vacancy for a lawyer position on (specify the source). I have ... years of legal experience, and I'd like to offer you my services as a professional. I graduated from (insert institute here), and I am well-versed in all aspects of civil law. I worked as a lawyer (indicate the specific area of expertise) for companies such as (list at least a few). Besides, I drafted attorney requests and court filings and handled the paperwork (list your specific occupations). Also, I had a successful law practice and won several court cases.

Understanding office software and legal systems are one of my skills. Working in groups is my preferred method of operation, and among my traits are the responsibility and a willingness to tackle a new challenge.

I hope my resume piques your interest. I would be grateful for an interview invitation.

An Example Of A Cover Letter For A Banker's Cv

Good afternoon! (it is better to specify the person to whom you are directly addressing)

A vacancy for a loan officer at your bank has been posted on ... Maybe you will be interested in my candidacy.

I have worked in the banking industry as a loan officer before. I am very familiar with the work and believe that I am capable of handling my new responsibilities, and I believe that my skills will be beneficial to your company. I've read a lot about your bank, and everything I've read about it has been extremely positive. I am very interested in the banking industry and would like to further my career in this field.

I would be glad to come in for an interview so you can show my qualifications and experience.

This is my phone number (specify).

Example Of A Cover Letter For An Accountant Resume

Your company has posted a job opening for an accountant position on ... I am sure that my knowledge and qualifications will be a good fit for your job.

My accounting experience spans... years, so I'm well-versed in the field. I have a specialized higher education. I am proficient in accounting and familiar with any accounting software (specify other skills in your speciality). My attitude is analytical, and I can work well in a group. My CV contains as much information about my benefits as feasible (attached).

Thank you for taking the time to read my letter.

Example Of A Cover Letter To A Manager's Resume

I am interested in the managerial position in your company, offered through your website.

I have carefully read the requirements you specified for applicants, and I am sure that I fully meet them.

I have a college degree in my field of study in your company. I have worked as a manager (specify where) and want to offer my candidacy for your consideration.

Working with clients and documentation are two of my most helpful abilities. Besides, I maintained a customer base, handled consultations, and spoke with clients over the phone. Proficient in all batch computer programs. My management experience is .... years.

Thank you for considering my resume (attached). I look forward to working with you, and I am available for an interview at the time you specify.

An Example Of How To Create A Cover Letter For A Resume If You Have No Experience

It is common for a job seeker to come across a vacancy that does not fit his experience or abilities. The individual, on the other hand, is certain that they will be able to handle the requested task.

Yesterday's grads, who, by definition, have no experience, are more likely to face such a predicament. Here's an example of how to create a cover letter for a resume in this situation:

I have read the job offer by your company to fill the position ... . I do not have the required experience in this speciality, but I have the ambition to learn a new business for myself. I am very eager to develop professionally and increase my level of knowledge.

I can list my qualities, such as (specify what, in your opinion, is most suitable for work in the company of your choice).

I would be grateful if you would invite me for an interview—my contact information (specify).

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Here are some tips on how you should not write a cover letter for your resume

  • Keep it short (don't stretch the text);
  • Be polite and courteous (you should not berate your former employer);
  • Keep your dignity (don't whine about your life or the fact that you haven't worked in a long time).

About the author

Effie J Franks specializes in writing articles on such topics as HR and Career Development. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration and also works at WriteMyResumes to help people to find their dream job. In her free time, Effie enjoys playing video games, reading, and camping.

Tell us your story

Would you like to write for nichemarket just like Effie has? Find out how to submit a guest post and when you're ready, you can contact us.

Are you looking to promote your business?

South African recruitment businesses can create your free business listing on nichemarket. The more information you provide about your business, the easier it will be for your customers to find you online. 

Registering with nichemarket is easy; all you will need to do is head over to our sign up form and follow the instructions. If you require a more detailed guide on how to create your profile or your listing, then we highly recommend you check out the following articles.

  • How to create a nichemarketer profile
  • How to create a nichemarket business listing

Recommended reading

If you enjoyed this post and have time to spare why not check out these related posts and dive deeper down the rabbit hole that is career advice.

  • How to List Online Courses on Your Resume
  • How Does Resume Parsing Speed up The Recruitment
  • Study Shows Hard Interviews Result In Better Jobs
  • Why Your Resume Should Be One Page
  • 5 Things to Know Before Moving to Africa for Work
  • 7 Tips For Recruiting Foreign Workers
  • Myths About Remote Interviews
  • 9 Recruiting Tactics For Bold Recruiting Leaders

Tags: Recruitment, Career, Guest Post

Previous: {{ previousBlog.sTitle }}

Posted {{ previousBlog.dtDatePosting }}

Next: {{ nextBlog.sTitle }}

Posted {{ nextBlog.dtDatePosting }}

You might also like

How market making works in crypto markets

Understanding Market-Making in Crypto

21 July 2024

Posted by Josh Welman in Money Talks

Exchanges often incentivize market makers with lower trading fees, rebates, or other financial incentives to ensure the platform has liquidity for tr...

Posted by Che Kohler in nichemarket Advice

If you are starting to see hundreds or even thousands of URLs appending with /1000 and triggering 404 errors in your search console, there is nothing...

Leave us a comment

Login to leave a comment

how to address a cover letter to recruitment agency

{{comment.sUserName}}

{{comment.iDayLastEdit}} day ago

{{comment.iDayLastEdit}} days ago

Sign up for our newsletter

Copyright © 2024 . created by nichemarket (pty) ltd. developed by netgen (pty) ltd.

how to address a cover letter to recruitment agency

Cover Letter to employment agency / Job Application Letter

Cover letter to employment agency, covering letter sample to empoyment agency, sample cover letter to a recruiter, sample covering letter to a recruiter, cover letter sample to recruitment agency, covering letter sample to empoyment firm, sample cover letter to recruitment agency, sample cover letter to recruitment company, cover letter sample to empoyment agency, cover letter sample to empoyment company, cover letter sample to a recruiter, sample cover letter to empoyment firm, sample covering letter to recruitment company, cover letter sample to empoyment firm, sample cover letter to empoyment company, covering letter sample to empoyment company.

Cover Letter to employment agency / Job Application Letter

Global site navigation

  • Celebrity biographies
  • Messages - Wishes - Quotes
  • TV and Movies
  • Fashion and style
  • Music and singers
  • Capital Market
  • Celebrities
  • Relationships

Local editions

  • Habari za Kenya Swahili

How to address a cover letter without a name in a few steps

When sending the cover letter, you need to ensure that it is sent to the person handling the recruitment process. But what if you don't know the person's name or title? In such a case, you need to know how to address a cover letter without a name to capture the hiring manager's attention.

Woman's hand writing with a pen a text in a writer's notebook.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. address it to the hiring manager, 2. use the job title, 3. address it to the hiring department or team, 4. conduct some research to know the name of the hiring manager, 5. use a gender-neutral title, how to address a cover letter if you don't know the address, wrapping up.

Companies receive thousands of applications from interested candidates whenever a job opening is advertised. However, most of the applications land in the trash because the cover letter looks generic and lacks a personal touch. The cover letter should be written professionally to impress the hiring manager and score an interview.

How to address a cover letter without a name

If you want the hiring manager to read your cover letter and invite you to an interview, you need to make the right impression. Unfortunately, a cover letter without a name or a smart title just won't cut it. If you don't know the name or title of the person handling the recruitment process, you can apply these tips to make your cover letter stand out.

how to address a cover letter to recruitment agency

List of common interview questions for Kenyan job seekers, how to answer

How do you start a cover letter without a name? You can address it to the person who is handling the recruitment process. This is a universally accepted title to address hiring professionals in cases where the name is unavailable. It is appropriate for almost all types of job applications . You will be surprised to know that hiring professionals prefer this salutation to no salutation at all.

If you know the hiring manager's job title, you can use it when addressing the cover letter. The job title adds a personal touch to your cover letter and increases your chances of securing an interview . When you address a cover letter using a job title, the person reading it will know that you did some research to get this information.

This will ensure that you stand out from other candidates who have applied for the same position. For example, you can address the cover letter to "Head of Sales and Marketing" or "Creative Director."

how to address a cover letter to recruitment agency

Signs you will get the job after an interview: 14 things to watch out for

Are you stuck on how to address cover letter when you don't know the hiring manager? You can address it to the hiring team or department. When you address the cover letter to the team, you will grab the attention of everyone on the team and entice them to read it.

Happy, smiling Indian female college student writing on journal. Asian woman handwriting on notebook in the evening.

If you know the specific department that has advertised the position, you need to personalize the cover letter by including its name in the address. This demonstrates a basic familiarity with the organization and the company structure.

How do you address a cover letter to an unknown recipient? If you don't know the name of the recipient, you need to conduct some research to know who to address cover letter to when the recipient unknown. If the company has a website, you can open the page and scroll through it to see if you will get the name of the hiring manager.

how to address a cover letter to recruitment agency

70 funny ways to answer the phone that will amuse your callers

You can also visit the employer's LinkedIn profile or social media pages to see if you can find this information. When you include the name of the hiring manager in the cover letter, they will know that you have done some research about the company. This approach shows that you care about the role enough to find out who your boss would be.

If you are not sure who to address the letter to, you need to use a gender-neutral identifier. Even if you know the hiring manager's name, you should not assume their gender because it will look unprofessional.

Avoid salutations such as Dear Sir or Dear Madam. You should also refrain from using the salutation Miss or Mrs when addressing the female hiring manager because you don't know their marital status.

how to address a cover letter to recruitment agency

How to reply to a job offer email: Full guide with examples

In the current digital age, the hiring manager will most likely request you to submit your cover letter online instead of a physical or postal address. Therefore, there's no need to include the recruiting company's full address or ZIP code in a cover letter.

Close up woman hand writing on notebook

In fact, including the address in the cover letter will work against you because the format is outdated. You should leave it out unless you have a very good reason to add it in.

There you have it. A comprehensive guide on how to address a cover letter without a name. When you properly address your cover letter, the hiring manager will not reject the application but will quickly proceed to read the main body. This will help you stand out from other candidates and increase your chances of securing an interview.

Tuko.co.ke published an article on how to ask for feedback after interview . Most candidates feel intimidated to contact the interviewer for feedback regarding their performance in an interview. However, this shouldn't be the case. Asking for feedback allows you to improve your interview performance and find new opportunities.

Acquiring feedback is an effective way to gain insights that could boost your chances in the future. It's the best way to know where you fell short of expectations in an interview. When you ask for feedback from the interviewer, you will be able to know how you compare yourself to other candidates. Read this post to learn more.

Source: TUKO.co.ke

Teresia Mwangi (Lifestyle writer) Teresia Mwangi is a writer and reporter with 10 years of experience. She studied Mass Communication at the University of Nairobi (2012). Teresia enjoys writing about trending topics, entertainment, travelling, politics, sports and technology. She joined Tuko in 2018. Teresia has also been a writer at Writersdomain.net. In 2023, Teresia finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques. Teresia was named the "The Writer of the Year" in 2023. In 2024, she expanded her writing skills by enrolling for the Google Initiative course. You can reach her via [email protected]

IMAGES

  1. Best Recruiter Cover Letter Examples for 2024

    how to address a cover letter to recruitment agency

  2. Director Of Recruiting Cover Letter Examples

    how to address a cover letter to recruitment agency

  3. How to Address a Cover Letter—20+ Examples & 3 Easy Steps

    how to address a cover letter to recruitment agency

  4. Recruiter Cover Letter: Sample and Guide for Recruiting Jobs

    how to address a cover letter to recruitment agency

  5. Recruitment Consultant Cover Letter

    how to address a cover letter to recruitment agency

  6. How to Address a Cover Letter—20+ Examples & 3 Easy Steps

    how to address a cover letter to recruitment agency

VIDEO

  1. How to write a cover letter: Template & Tips

  2. Cover Letter Advice For [Aspiring] Real Estate Analysts

  3. Something I want to address (Cover art timelapse)

  4. upsc interview ka new question in Hindi video gk question

  5. How to Write a Cover Letter That Gets Noticed

  6. How to write your Cover Letter to Agents And Managers

COMMENTS

  1. How to Address a Cover Letter to Recruiter or Hiring Manager

    Whoever it is, use their full name (first and last name) in the greeting. If you cannot definitively tell the gender of the hiring person, do not use a gender-based title such as "Mr." or "Ms." in the greeting. Instead just use the person's full name. For example, Alex Johnson could be male or female. To avoid a gender mistake, use Dear ...

  2. How To Write a Cover Letter To an Agency (With Template and ...

    Cover letter to an agency template. Consider this template of a cover letter sent to a recruitment agency: [Date] [Your name] [Your address] [Recruiter's name] [Their job title] [Recruiting company name] [Recruiting company's address] Dear [recruiter's name], I am writing with the interest of being matched with [the type of job or specific job ...

  3. How to Write a Cover Letter to a Recruiter

    In a cover letter to a recruiter, be sure to include the following five pieces of information: All contact information, including your phone number, address, and email. Why you're in the market for a new job and what you are looking for. Job titles and industries that interest you. Your salary expectations.

  4. How To Write a Cover Letter to a Recruiter (With Template)

    When writing a cover letter to a recruiter, follow these nine steps to ensure you include all crucial information: 1. Include your name and address. When writing your recruitment cover letter, begin with your full name. On the next line, include your mailing or physical address. You can also add your contact details, such as an email address ...

  5. How to Address a Cover Letter (With Examples)

    The headline on the image says, "Cover letter format" A woman sits at a table writing on a piece of paper. There's a simple cover letter represented by lines. On one side of the cover letter, there are labels for the sections of the cover letter. The labels are: 1. Date and contact information 2. Salutation/greeting 3. First, introduce yourself 4.

  6. How to Write a Cover Letter to a Recruitment Agency

    Here's a step-by-step guide you may find helpful when writing a cover letter to a recruitment agency: 1. Conduct research on the recruitment agency. Because there are a variety of different types of recruitment agencies, it can benefit you to research your desired agency to make sure they offer the services you require.

  7. How To Write a Cover Letter to an Agency (With Example)

    This includes your full name, address with postcode, phone number and email address. After the first section, include the date when you wrote the letter, for example: 12th July 2021, and follow that with recipient's contact information. Remember to use a formal greeting, such as 'Dear Mr. Jones'.

  8. How to Address and End a Cover Letter: 25 Examples & Tips

    Dear Hiring Manager, But job seekers can often be more specific. Take a look at these examples: Dear Customer Experience Manager, Dear Customer Experience Hiring Team Manager, Some other alternatives include addressing your cover letter to an entire department: Dear Engineering Department, Dear Engineering Team,

  9. How To Write a Talent Agency Cover Letter (With an Example)

    You can include your name and the purpose of your email, like, "Misha DeLotto—Singer representation." 5. Write a salutation. Open the letter with a proper salutation like "Dear" followed by the agency name or agent's title and their last name. For example, "Dear Mr. Phillips.". 6. Write an introduction.

  10. How to Address a Cover Letter in 2024

    Dear Human Resources Recruitment Team, Alternatively, if you don't have enough information either about the department or the team, you can opt for addressing the cover letter directly to the company's hiring staff, as follows: Dear [Company Name] Hiring Team. Dear [Company Name] Recruiting Staff.

  11. How to Address a Cover Letter (and Who to Address)

    Here are the most common ways to address a cover letter without a name: To Whom It May Concern. Dear Human Resources Director. Dear Hiring Manager. Dear Recruitment Manager. Additionally, if you want to add a personal touch, address your cover letter to your prospective department or manager.

  12. How to write a cover letter to a recruitment agency

    Keep the writing concise but fluid, and don't forget to check your spelling, grammar and punctuation. 8. Don't forget the details. In your final proofread, make sure you've included all of your contact information and that it is correct. Finish on a positive note - reiterate your enthusiasm for working with the agency and express your ...

  13. How to Address a Cover Letter in 2024 With Examples

    The way you should format a company's address on a cover letter is as follows: [Recipient's Name], [Job Title] [Company Name] [Number and Street Name] [City, State and ZIP Code] Here's an example of how to format a company's address on a cover letter: Dwayne Johnson, Human Resources Manager. Limitless, LLC.

  14. How to Address a Cover Letter in 2024 (with Examples)

    How to Address an Email Cover Letter. Use these tips for addressing a cover letter email: Subject Line: 5-10 words—"Job Application for" + position you're applying to. Start with a cover letter salutation like Dear Dr. Manzanilla, Put your name, email address, and phone number at the end.

  15. How to Address Your Cover Letter in 2023

    Rule #1: Address your cover letter to the hiring manager using a formal, full-name salutation (if possible). For a cover letter, you should always default to addressing it to the hiring manager for the position you're applying to. Unless you know for sure that the culture of the company is more casual, use the hiring manager's first and ...

  16. How to Address a Cover Letter in 2024

    Here's how you address a cover letter to a recruitment agency: if you have a contact's name: Dear [Mr/Ms/Mx] [Contact's Surname], if you don't have a contact's name : Dear Recruiter, Whenever possible, use a contact's name to make your cover letter more personable. You should be able to find a person to address your cover letter to ...

  17. How to Write a Cover Letter for a Recruitment Consultant

    Learn this format and use it for all your cover letters. [12] Become familiar with the following format and be sure to use it when writing your letter. [13] Place your name, title, and address on the top left of the paper. Place the date below this. Put the person's name, title, and address below this.

  18. Sample Cover Letter to Recruitment Agency

    A recruiting agency employee will want to know two key pieces of information. First, when will you be available to start a new position. If you'll need two weeks after accepting an offer, let them know that. Otherwise, give a firm date if you can. Next, you'll need to include when you are available for interviews.

  19. How to address a cover letter (With examples)

    Properly addressing your cover letter is a straightforward process. If you follow these simple steps, you should be able to address your cover letter correctly: 1. Examine the job description to find out the name of the recruitment manager. The first thing you should do when addressing your cover letter is to refer to the job description.

  20. Writing a Recruiter Cover Letter (With Tips and Examples)

    Here are some tips to consider when creating your cover letter: Be concise and clear. Use bulleted lists. Use common keywords when describing your skills and experience. Include your email address and phone number. Explain the reason for your job search.

  21. Cover Letters To Recruiters

    2. Be brief. "Brevity is extremely important on any cover letter to a recruiter," says Anderson, who prefers cover letters be a half-page or shorter. 3. Narrow your focus. When replying to an advertised opening, your cover letter will focus on a specific opportunity. But when writing a referral or cold cover letter, many candidates are too ...

  22. How To Write A Cover Letter For A Recruitment Agency

    1. Create a personalized letter. The cover letter should definitely be written for a specific company and job opening. It would help if you tried to put yourself in the shoes of a potential employer, read the letter and decide whether "your company" would benefit from an employee like you. 2.

  23. Cover Letter to employment agency / Job Application Letter

    Cover letter sample to empoyment agency. Job Application Letter. Dear Hiring Manager, I am forwarding to you my resume in case any of your clients has a need for a qualified and dedicated [jobtitle]. Since [year], I have held longstanding jobs of increased responsibility for leading [industry] companies as [job title].

  24. How to address a cover letter without a name in a few steps

    If you know the hiring manager's job title, you can use it when addressing the cover letter. The job title adds a personal touch to your cover letter and increases your chances of securing an interview. When you address a cover letter using a job title, the person reading it will know that you did some research to get this information.