A strong cover letter close is your final chance to make a lasting impression on a potential employer. It's the punctuation mark on your carefully crafted pitch, and it needs to be just as impactful as the opening. A weak closing can undermine even the strongest introduction and body. This guide provides dependable advice on how to close a cover letter effectively, helping you land that interview.
Beyond the Generic "Sincerely": Crafting a Compelling Conclusion
Avoid the generic closings that recruiters see daily. Instead, aim for a personalized conclusion that reinforces your key qualifications and leaves the reader wanting more. Here's how to elevate your cover letter closing:
1. Reiterate Your Enthusiasm and Key Skills:
Instead of simply stating your interest, show your enthusiasm. Briefly reiterate your most relevant skills and how they directly address the job description's requirements. For instance:
"With my five years of experience in project management and proven ability to deliver projects under budget and ahead of schedule, I am confident I can make a significant contribution to your team."
This demonstrates not just interest, but also confidence and a clear understanding of the role.
2. Call to Action (CTA): Don't Be Shy!
Clearly state your desire for an interview. This isn't aggressive; it's assertive and professional. Examples include:
"I am eager to discuss how my skills and experience can benefit your organization. Thank you for your time and consideration."
"I welcome the opportunity to interview at your earliest convenience to further discuss my qualifications."
"I have attached my resume for your review and look forward to hearing from you soon."
3. Express Gratitude (But Keep it Concise):
Show appreciation for the recruiter's time and consideration. Avoid overly effusive language; keep it professional and succinct. Phrases like "Thank you for your time and consideration" or "I appreciate you taking the time to review my application" are perfectly adequate.
4. Proofread Meticulously!
Typos and grammatical errors are unforgivable. A sloppy closing undermines the professionalism of your entire cover letter. Carefully proofread your entire document, and if possible, have a trusted friend or colleague review it as well.
What NOT to Do in Your Cover Letter Closing:
- Don't be demanding: Avoid phrases like "I expect to hear from you within…"
- Don't be overly casual: Maintain a professional tone throughout.
- Don't repeat information: Avoid restating everything you've already covered in the body of your letter.
- Don't leave it blank: Always include a closing statement.
- Don't use inappropriate closings: Avoid anything overly informal like "Cheers" or "Best."
Examples of Strong Cover Letter Closings:
Example 1 (For a Marketing Role):
"My experience in developing and executing successful marketing campaigns, coupled with my proven ability to analyze data and drive results, makes me a strong candidate for this position. Thank you for your time and consideration. I welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview."
Example 2 (For a Software Engineering Role):
"With my expertise in Python, Java, and Agile methodologies, I am confident I can make a valuable contribution to your team. I am eager to learn more about this opportunity and discuss how my skills and experience align with your requirements. Thank you for your time and consideration."
By following this advice and crafting a compelling closing, you significantly improve your chances of securing an interview. Remember, your cover letter's closing is your last opportunity to shine – make it count!
