Outshine the competition with a standout human resources cover letter. Far from being a mundane document, it's an opportunity to showcase your unique value proposition, the right skills, and professional accomplishments.
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Our guide packed with practical tips and real-world examples will help you navigate these tricky waters. Let's roll up our sleeves and get down to the nitty-gritty of creating an outstanding HR cover letter.
Read on and learn about:
- Formatting your HR cover letter the right way
- Creating an effective header
- Crafting a persuasive headline to catch the reader's attention
- Personalizing the greeting in your HR cover letter
- Drafting a compelling introduction
- Highlighting the right HR skills and achievements
- Showing your passion and interest in the company
- Concluding your human resources cover letter with a strong call-to-action
- Avoiding common mistakes in HR cover letters
- Gaining insight into the salary range and job outlook for HR roles
- Exploring valuable resources for HR job seekers
1. How to properly format your HR cover letter
When it comes to cover letters, first impressions do count. And nothing makes a stronger first impression than a properly formatted, easy-to-read document.
Here are some tips to make your human resources cover letter smooth to navigate and pleasant to the eye:
- Font matters: Keep it professional and easy to read. Fonts like Arial, Calibri, and Times New Roman in 10-12 point size are generally accepted norms.
- Mind the margins: 1" margins on all sides of the document provide a balanced look. It also ensures that no information gets cropped when printed.
- Line spacing is crucial: Use 1.15 to 1.5 line spacing for optimal readability. Your HR cover letter shouldn't look like an endless sea of text.
- Contact information: Including your name, contact details, the job you're applying to, and the recipient's details adds a professional touch and shows you've done your homework.
- Proper structure: Your cover letter should follow a clear structure — introduction, body, and conclusion. Add a personalized greeting to make it less automated.
- Consistency is key: When it comes to bullet points, indentations, and headers, consistency is paramount. Make sure they all align.
- Keep it concise: Aim to keep your cover letter to a single page. A clear, concise cover letter is likely to engage the reader
- Make it skimmable: Ensure your cover letter is easy to skim through. Break up large chunks of text and highlight key points that you want to stand out.
Remember, your cover letter is your first handshake with the employer — make it firm and memorable. Good formatting not only catches the reader's eye, but also shows your ability to organize and present information effectively — a coveted skill in HR.
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2. How to write an effective HR cover letter header
The header may seem like a small element in a sea of words, but don't be deceived. This compact package of information houses the key contact details — both yours and the recipient's.
Its role? To quickly signal who the players in this professional script are and how to get in touch.
A complete header should contain:
- Your full name
- Address
- Email address
- Phone number
- Today's date
- Recipient's full name
- Their position
- The company address
Now, let's put this theory to test with two examples — one falling short and the other hitting the mark:
Weak cover letter header example
John Smith
hotjohnny99@example.com
(123) 456-7890
Hiring Manager
XYZ Company
Why is it weak? In this example, John missed several important details, such as the date, his address, and the recipient's full information — name, position, and company address.
Besides that, one particular detail jumps out immediately from this example — John's unprofessional email address. Using a personal or outdated email can give the impression of carelessness about digital professionalism — a big no-no, especially when applying for an HR role.
Correct cover letter header example
John Smith
123 Main St, New York, NY 10001
johnsmith@example.com
(123) 456-7890
January 3, 2024
To: Ms. Jane Johnson
Human Resources Director
XYZ Company
456 Corporate Blvd, New York, NY 10002
Why does it work? John has included all the key details — his name, address, email, phone number, and the date. He's also provided full details about the recipient. This adds a personal touch and shows respect for the hiring manager's position.
In short, the header sets the stage for your entire cover letter. It showcases your attention to detail and your respect for the hiring process. Remember — the devil is in the details.
3. How to craft a compelling headline for your HR cover letter
The headline of your cover letter is a potent tool. It's your "elevator pitch," condensing your appeal into a concise line that should grab the reader's attention and make them want to read more.
Here's how you shouldn't and should write a cover letter headline:
Weak cover letter headline example
Experienced HR Professional Seeking Employment
Why does it fall flat? It's too broad and fails to differentiate the candidate. It's like saying “just another HR professional looking for a job.” There's no clear mention of specific skills or areas of expertise, and it lacks any hint of the candidate's unique value.
Strong example for an experienced candidate
Seasoned HR Leader with 10 Years of Success in Talent Acquisition and Employee Engagement
Why does it work? Here, the candidate showcases specific areas of expertise (talent acquisition and employee engagement) and backs it up with a hefty 10 years of experience. The headline immediately gives the reader a snapshot of the candidate's capabilities and record.
Now, you might wonder — how does a recent graduate make an impression with less on-the-job experience? Here's an example of how it can be done effectively:
Strong headline example for a fresh graduate
HR Graduate Specialized in Conflict Resolution and Diversity Training Eager to Drive Positive Change
Why is it strong? In this version, the candidate highlights specialization areas (conflict resolution and diversity training), showing enthusiasm and a proactive attitude towards making a difference in the workplace. It simply tells the hiring manager, "I may be a fresh graduate, but I'm ready to roll up my sleeves and deliver."
All in all, an effective cover letter headline should encapsulate your qualifications, unique skills, and aspirations within a single, compelling line. It's not just about what you've done or studied, but also about what you can bring to the table.
4. How to tailor the greeting on your HR cover letter
Beginning your HR cover letter with a personalized greeting is an effective way to draw in the reader.
It demonstrates that you've made the effort to direct your cover letter to a specific person. This extra legwork can speak volumes about how you approach your work — with diligence and care.
How to find the right name? Start with the job advertisement. Some companies will explicitly state to whom the letters should be addressed. If this information isn't provided, turn to LinkedIn or the company's website. You could even make a quick phone call to the company's front desk to ask for the name of the hiring manager.
Here are some examples of personalized greetings
Dear Ms. Thompson,
Dear Ms. Patty Thompson,
Dear Hiring Manager Patty Thompson,
When you can't find a name, it's crucial to keep the tone professional:
Generic greeting examples
Dear Hiring Team, — This is broad but still shows that you've tailored your cover letter to the receiving company.
Dear Recruitment Manager, — If you're unsure who it is but know the department, this greeting is acceptable.
Avoid phrases like "To Whom It May Concern." They may be perceived as outdated or inattentive to nuances in business communication.
The takeaway here is that starting your human resources cover letter with a personalized greeting sets the tone for the entire letter. It's attention to the fine details that often makes the difference between just another application and a carefully curated one.
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5. How to write a strong introduction to your HR cover letter
The introduction of your cover letter is like the opening scene of a movie — it has the power to engage your audience immediately or lose their interest entirely.
Here's what it should include:
- A concise outline of your professional and academic history relevant to the role
- A clear statement outlining why you're applying to this specific position
- A mutual contact or acquaintance (if you have one) can add a level of personal connection and authenticity
Let's examine these concepts with practical examples:
Weak cover letter opening example
I am writing to apply for your recently advertised HR position. I have studied HR management and have worked as an HR Professional.
Why is it ineffective? This introduction tells the reader nothing that sets this candidate apart. It merely states that the candidate has an HR background. There's no mention of specific skills or experiences, why the candidate is interested in the role, or what makes them suited to the company or role.
Strong cover letter opening for an experienced HR professional
Bringing a decade of experience in building dynamic HR departments from the ground up, I am always on the search for new challenges. After leading the successful HR transformation at XYZ Corp, I'm inspired by ABC Company's commitment to its employees and would love to contribute to maintaining this nurturing environment.
Why does it work? The candidate immediately establishes their extensive experience in the HR field and specifies a significant achievement. Moreover, they've shown that they align with the company's values, which suggests a good fit.
But what happens when you're freshly graduated and your professional experience section looks a little lean? Here's how a recent graduate can make an impression:
Strong opening example for a fresh graduate
As a recent graduate in HR Management with a focus on employee development and regulatory compliance, I was excited to come across your HR Trainee role at ABC Company. Your company's reputation for prioritizing employee growth resonates with me, and I am eager to apply my academic knowledge in a practical, hands-on environment.
Why does it work? Here, the candidate doesn't have years of experience to lean on but wisely focuses on their key academic achievements. They mention their motivation for applying and recognize the company's priorities.
To sum it up, an engaging introduction quickly outlines your background, clearly states your interest in the role, and starts to build a connection with the company. Your HR cover letter is your story — let's start it off on the right foot.
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6. How to highlight your top skills and accomplishments
Once you've nailed the introduction, it's time to delve into the main act — the body of your HR cover letter. This is where you get to shine a spotlight on your individual skills and achievements.
Break down your cover letter body into two or three short paragraphs. Each paragraph should focus on a particular skill set or accomplishment relevant to the proposed HR position.
When highlighting your HR skills and achievements, provide context. Instead of stating you're "experienced in employee training programs," detail a program you implemented that improved employee performance and retention. Be specific about your role and the results that were achieved.
The exact skills you will highlight in your cover letter will depend on the HR role you're aspiring to.
Here are some fundamental HR skills for your cover letter
- Employee recruitment and retention
- Performance management
- Training and development
- Stakeholder engagement
- Conflict resolution and mediation
- HR software proficiency (SAP, Workday, etc.)
- Legal understanding and compliance
If you’re an experienced HR worker, your body paragraph may look something like this:
Cover letter body paragraph example
As an HR Coordinator at XYZ Company, I streamlined the recruitment process by implementing a new Applicant Tracking System, reducing the average hiring time by 15 days. Besides boosting team efficiency, it also improved the candidate experience, with feedback scores increasing by 20%.
Why does it work? In this example, the candidate shows their problem-solving skills and the tangible result from their initiatives.
But what if you’re a fresh graduate? Though you may lack formal HR experience, emphasize transferable skills from any internships, part-time jobs, or team projects at university. Also, make sure to highlight any relevant coursework or academic achievements.
Cover letter body paragraph example for a fresh graduate
During my final project as an HR Management postgraduate, I designed a diversity and inclusion initiative model, which was recognized by the faculty and implemented as part of the curriculum for the following year. This project demonstrated my capacity for creating forward-thinking HR solutions on a micro scale.
Why is it effective? This recent graduate demonstrates their ability to contribute positively on a larger scale, even in an academic context.
In summary, the body of your HR cover letter is your chance to illustrate your skills with clear examples and facts. Be specific, be concise, and most importantly, be authentic. Show them why you are not just another HR professional, but the HR professional they need.
7. How to show your passion and interest in the company
In your HR cover letter, it's essential to showcase your passion for the field and the company you're applying to. This means highlighting what specifically drew you to the company and why you're excited about the position.
Use the cover letter as an opportunity to explain how your personal values align with the company's mission statement and how you can contribute to the company's goals.
For example, if you're applying to a company that prioritizes employee development, you can mention your own passion for learning and your desire to help others grow and develop their skills.
Or, if the company values diversity and inclusion, you can discuss your own experiences working with diverse teams and your commitment to creating an inclusive workplace.
By demonstrating your enthusiasm and connection to the company, you can make a strong impression on the hiring manager and increase your chances of landing the job.
Here's an example that demonstrates passion and interest in HR
During my time at XYZ Company, I was responsible for leading several diversity and inclusion initiatives, including a mentorship program for underrepresented employees and the implementation of a company-wide unconscious bias training. These experiences not only helped me develop a deeper understanding of HR principles, but also ignited a passion for creating a more equitable and inclusive workplace. I am excited to bring this passion and expertise to the HR team at ABC Company and continue to drive meaningful change in the industry.
8. How to end your HR cover letter persuasively
Just as the introduction gives the first impression, the conclusion leaves the final and lasting impression. You need to ensure that it summarizes your key points, provides clear next steps, and reinforces your enthusiasm for the role.
Your conclusion should:
- Politely express desire for further process, and when and how you can be best contacted
- Offer to provide further information upon request
- Detail your follow-up plan — when and how you will do it
- Close with a professional sign-off
Let's review both wrong and right examples of a conclusion:
Incorrect cover letter conclusion example
I hope you consider my application, and I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Why is it weak? This conclusion is discouraging as it sounds more hopeful than confident. It fails to offer any follow-up action, detail how the applicant could be contacted, or offer further assistance. It wraps up the letter on an uncertain and passive note.
Correct cover letter conclusion example
I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to bring my unique blend of skills and experience to your esteemed company and am confident that I could contribute significantly to your team. Should you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me at (123)-456-7890 or via email at johnsmith@example.com. I will follow up within a week to address any preliminary questions you may have.
Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Why does it work? In this example, the applicant starts with a positive affirmation of their interest and fit for the role. They provide contact details for further discussions and proactively promise to follow up, showing initiative. The sign-off expresses gratitude, always a nice touch.
In short, the conclusion of your HR cover letter is a balancing act of reinforcing your candidacy, offering next steps, and maintaining a courteous, professional tone. Done right, it can be the call-to-action that prompts the hiring manager to move your application to the 'to-interview' pile.
9. How to avoid common mistakes in your HR cover letter
Everyone makes mistakes, but when it comes to your HR cover letter, you'll want to keep them to a minimum. This document serves as a reflection of your professionalism. Several small errors could imply carelessness and lack of attention to detail.
Let's address some common missteps people frequently make and how to sidestep them:
- Spelling and grammar errors: As straightforward as it is, many applicants submit cover letters riddled with spelling and grammatical mistakes. These can be a real turn-off for hiring managers. Remember, spell-check programs don't catch everything. Make sure to proofread your cover letter, and consider having someone else take a glance as well.
- Repeating the resume: The cover letter is not the place to restate your resume word for word. The resume and the cover letter serve different purposes. Your cover letter is an opportunity to tell the story behind the bullet points in your resume. Use it to highlight your most relevant experiences and explain how they make you a great fit for the role.
- Being overly generic: If it can be sent to any HR job post, your cover letter isn't doing its job. Make sure to customize your cover letter for each role you apply for. Mention the company by name, and talk about why you're excited about the specific job.
- Too humble or too arrogant: Striking a balance between self-confidence and humility can be tricky, but it's essential in a cover letter. Don't undersell your qualifications, but also avoid coming off as arrogant. Use confident language, back up your skills with examples, but remember to remain professional and gracious.
- Overdoing the jargon: While it's good to show your industry knowledge, using too much jargon can make your cover letter hard to understand. It can also come off as trying too hard. Use industry terms appropriately, but remember that clarity is key.
Every aspect of your cover letter contributes to the impression you make on the hiring manager. So, keep these tips in mind to avoid common pitfalls and ensure your HR cover letter showcases your skills, experience, and professionalism in the best light.
10. Average salary and outlook for HR professionals
Going by the most recent data furnished by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the financial rewards and the job prospects in the field of human resources are promising. As of May 2022, the average yearly wage of HR specialists was a competitive $64,240.
Looking towards the future, the field is expected to grow at a rate of 6% between 2022 and 2032. This growth forecast not only outpaces the average growth rate for all occupations but also means that those considering a career in HR have a favorable job outlook.
In terms of demand, approximately 78,700 openings for HR specialists are projected to spring up, on average, each year over the decade.
This strongly indicates that investing time, effort, and resources to build a successful career in HR, starting with a compelling cover letter, is a move likely to pay off handsomely in the long term.
After all, who wouldn't want to partake in an industry that rewards its specialists both in terms of salary and opportunity?
11. Useful resources for HR job seekers
The journey to landing your dream HR role can be smoother with the correct resources at your disposal. Here are a few key resources and advice that can greatly aid your job-seeking process in the HR field:
- SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management): SHRM's resource hub provides plenty of valuable articles, webcasts, and research reports on various HR topics. It's also a great place to find job postings in HR.
- LinkedIn: Networking is critical in the job search, and LinkedIn is a prime platform for this. Connect with HR professionals, join HR groups, and explore companies you're interested in.
- BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics): For data and statistics on the HR job market, there's no better source than BLS. Information on job growth, salary trends, etc., can help navigate your career path.
- Continuing education: Consider certifications like PHR (Professional in Human Resources) or SHRM-CP (SHRM Certified Professional). These can distinguish you from other candidates and show your commitment to the HR profession.
- Job search platforms: Sites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and Monster post numerous HR job openings and also offer resources like resume and cover letter tips, interview practice, and company reviews.
- Continuing education: It's worth considering HR-related certifications like Professional in Human Resources (PHR) or SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP). These elevations on your resume distinguish you from the pack and exhibit your dedication to mastering the HR terrain.
Your HR journey begins with a single step, a single application, a single cover letter. So gear up, go out there and make your mark in the world of Human Resources.
Human Resources Cover Letter FAQ
Highlighting shared values is a great way to indicate cultural fit. Research the company’s mission, ideals, and work culture, and then weave instances where you've demonstrated these values into your cover letter.
Focus on transferable skills — abilities you've gained in your past roles that are relevant to HR (e.g., people management, communication). Highlight your eagerness and plan to learn more about HR best practices.
Your cover letter should be professional, but it doesn’t need to be overly formal. It’s acceptable to use a conversational tone, which can make your letter more engaging.
It’s important to tailor your cover letter to each specific job and company. This demonstrates to the hiring manager that you are seriously interested in the role and have taken the time to understand the company's needs and culture.
Yes. If you believe a qualification could add value to the role or display your diverse skill set, include it. This might be a language you're proficient in or your experience with a particular software tool. Make sure to tie it back to how it can benefit the role or company.
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