The final sentences of your cover letter are the last opportunity to make an impression on a hiring manager. A well-crafted closing reinforces your professionalism and enthusiasm for the position. It solidifies your qualifications and communicates your eagerness to take the next step, influencing how you are remembered when it is time to select candidates for interviews.
Writing The Final Paragraph
The last paragraph of your cover letter summarizes your intent and guides the hiring manager toward the next step. It should bring together a few elements to create a polished and impactful statement, ensuring your application ends on a high note.
Begin your closing paragraph by briefly restating your excitement for the opportunity. Mentioning specific aspects of the position or company that appeal to you makes your enthusiasm appear more authentic. This shows the hiring manager you have considered how you would fit within their team.
Next, include a clear and confident call to action. This is a polite statement expressing your desire for an interview to discuss your qualifications in more detail. Phrases like, “I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my skills,” convey confidence without sounding demanding and show initiative.
Conclude the paragraph by thanking the hiring manager for their time and consideration. This is a standard, respectful gesture that acknowledges the effort involved in reviewing applications. A simple, “Thank you for your time and consideration,” is professional and reinforces a positive final impression.
Choosing A Professional Sign-Off
The sign-off, or valediction, is the final professional courtesy you extend to the reader. Choosing the right phrase maintains the formal tone of your letter and contributes to the overall polish of your application. The goal is to be respectful and conventional, avoiding anything too casual.
For most business contexts, several options are appropriate:
- Sincerely: A widely accepted and safe choice that conveys respect.
- Best regards / Kind regards: Adds a touch of warmth while remaining professional.
- Respectfully: Often used in more conservative fields like law or government.
- Yours sincerely: A traditional option if you know the hiring manager’s name.
Avoid sign-offs that can undermine your professionalism. Phrases like “Cheers,” “Thanks,” or “Best” are too informal for a cover letter. While they may be appropriate for internal emails, they can appear unprofessional to a prospective employer.
Formatting Your Name And Signature
The formatting of your name and signature provides the final touches to your cover letter. The method differs depending on whether you are submitting a digital or physical copy. Proper formatting ensures your contact information is clear and accessible.
For digital submissions via email or an online portal, a handwritten signature is not necessary. After your professional sign-off, leave a single space and type your full name. Below your name, include your phone number and email address for convenient access.
For a physical, printed cover letter, an actual signature is required. After the sign-off, leave four blank lines for your handwritten signature. Below this space, type your full name, and sign in blue or black ink in the space above it.
Common Closing Mistakes To Avoid
Simple mistakes in your closing can detract from your professionalism. A final review of your closing paragraph and sign-off can help you catch errors that might leave a negative impression.
One common mistake is adopting a tone that is either too demanding or too passive. A phrase like, “I expect to hear from you soon,” can sound arrogant, while, “I hope you will consider my application,” may seem to lack confidence. The closing should also summarize and reinforce, not introduce new skills or qualifications that belong in the body of the letter.
Avoid mentioning salary expectations unless specifically requested, as the cover letter is not the place for this discussion. Using overly familiar language or casual slang can also damage your professional image. Finally, typos and grammatical errors signal a lack of attention to detail, so careful proofreading is necessary.
Cover Letter Closing Examples
The examples below demonstrate how to combine the final paragraph, sign-off, and signature block. Each maintains a professional tone while showing slight variations for different circumstances.
Standard Example
Thank you for your time and consideration. I am very enthusiastic about the prospect of bringing my project management skills to your team and welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications with you in an interview.
Sincerely,
John Smith
(123) 456-7890
john.smith@email.com
Formal Example
I appreciate you taking the time to review my application. My experience in financial analysis aligns directly with the requirements of this role, and I am eager to learn more about this opportunity. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.
Respectfully,
Jane Doe
(987) 654-3210
jane.doe@email.com