The cover letter’s final paragraph and sign-off represent the last opportunity to influence a hiring manager’s decision. A well-crafted conclusion ensures the positive impression built throughout the letter remains strong. Conversely, a weak or generic ending can instantly undermine the detailed arguments presented in the body of your professional narrative.
The Purpose of the Concluding Paragraph
The concluding paragraph functions as a concise summary, bringing the reader back to the central theme of your application. Briefly recap the most compelling evidence of how your skills directly align with the job requirements. Avoid introducing new information; instead, focus on synthesizing the specific experiences detailed in the preceding paragraphs.
Reiterate your genuine enthusiasm for the specific company and the role, demonstrating that you have done research beyond simply reading the job description. Mentioning a specific company value, recent project, or team goal shows the hiring manager that your interest is targeted. This final statement of alignment serves as the bridge to the proactive request for an interview. Closing with a focused recap ensures the manager retains the most relevant information about your candidacy.
Writing a Strong Call to Action
A strong call to action (CTA) proactively solicits the next step in the hiring process. Passive phrases like “I hope to hear from you soon” relinquish control and leave the follow-up entirely up to the recipient. Instead, professional phrasing should be assertive, such as “I welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview.”
An effective CTA sets a clear expectation for a follow-up, communicating your intent to maintain contact. Phrases like “I will follow up with your office early next week to ensure you received my materials” demonstrate initiative. This shift from waiting to acting shows employers that you take responsibility for advancing projects and communication.
It is important to be direct without being demanding, maintaining a tone of professional partnership. For example, you might write, “I am eager to schedule a brief discussion regarding how my background in process optimization can benefit the Operations team.” Framing the request around a mutual benefit makes the invitation to interview more appealing. This proactive approach ensures your application is marked for immediate consideration.
Choosing the Right Professional Closing
The formal closing is a standard professional courtesy that immediately precedes your signature and typed name. Widely accepted closings include “Sincerely,” “Best regards,” “Respectfully yours,” and “Regards,” all conveying professionalism. Select one that is appropriate for a formal business communication, regardless of the industry.
Avoid overly familiar closings such as “Cheers,” “Thanks,” or “Best,” as these are better suited for less formal correspondence. Similarly, outdated options like “Yours faithfully” or “Very truly yours” can make the letter feel stiff. After selecting your closing phrase, leave a blank line for a physical or digital signature, and then type your full legal name directly below it.
Final Checks: Common Wrap-Up Mistakes
One frequent error is failing to proofread the closing lines, which can result in typographical errors in the sign-off or contact information. Another mistake is using overly generic language that could apply to any job, negating the personalized effort of the rest of the letter. Ensure your final sentences tie back to the specific opportunity and the unique value you offer the organization.
Candidates sometimes make the error of being overly demanding in their call to action, which conveys entitlement rather than professional confidence. Do not include irrelevant information, such as salary expectations, in the final paragraph, as this distracts from the main objective. The conclusion must remain tightly focused on securing the interview and providing clear, accurate contact details immediately below the formal closing.