Should You Sign A Cover Letter?
When it comes to job applications, the cover letter plays a crucial role in presenting a compelling case
to potential employers. Many job seekers wonder whether it's necessary to sign a cover letter and if
doing so adds value to their application. In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of signing a
cover letter to help you make an informed decision.
Pros of Signing a Cover Letter:
1. Professionalism: Signing your cover letter adds a touch of professionalism. It shows that you
take your application seriously and are willing to go the extra mile.
2. Personalization: A signature adds a personal touch to your application, making it stand out
from others. It gives a sense of authenticity and commitment.
3. Traditional Expectations: In some industries or regions, signing a cover letter is considered
a traditional and expected practice. It can adhere to the conventional norms of job application
etiquette.
Cons of Signing a Cover Letter:
1. Digital Applications: In the era of digital applications, where most resumes and cover letters
are submitted online, a scanned or digital signature might seem impersonal or unnecessary.
2. Potential for Bias: Some recruiters and employers may form unconscious biases based on
handwriting styles or signatures. This could potentially work against you, especially if the
signature is illegible.
3. Space Constraints: In situations where space is limited or the cover letter is electronically
submitted, adding a signature may take up valuable space or create formatting issues.
Conclusion:
Ultimately, the decision to sign a cover letter depends on various factors, including industry norms,
personal preferences, and the specific requirements of the job application. It's essential to consider the
context and follow any guidelines provided by the employer.
If you choose to include a signature, ensure it is neat, legible, and complements the overall
presentation of your cover letter. However, if you opt not to sign, focus on crafting a well-written
and impactful letter that highlights your skills and qualifications.
In conclusion, whether or not you sign a cover letter is a matter of discretion, and there is no one-
size-fits-all answer. As you navigate the intricacies of job applications, remember that the content and
relevance of your cover letter are paramount.
For expert assistance in crafting a standout cover letter that aligns with industry standards and
showcases your unique qualifications, consider reaching out to BestResumeHelp.com . Their
professional resume writers can provide personalized guidance to enhance your job application
success.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are for informational purposes only and do not
constitute professional advice. It is recommended to verify the specific requirements of each job
application before deciding whether to sign a cover letter.
Additionally, I have a proven track record of driving strategic global marketing initiatives, with a
success rate of 85% in increasing B2B brand awareness via email marketing and search, resulting in a
21% boost in annual revenue. There are a couple of situations when you should include a
handwritten signature in your cover letter. Let the employer see how keen you are to work for them.
Why cover letters are taking a back seat The diminishing importance of cover letters in recent years
can be traced back to several factors. These tools are valuable for streamlining your writing process,
offering basic templates and relevant details. Place your signature underneath your typed name, as it
should always be there, no matter how you deliver your document to the hiring manager. However,
there are things you should avoid writing in your cover letter signature. I've received a conditional
offer from the University of Sussex to study English and drama in September. Whenever you are in
doubt here, you can refer back to this easy chart. CV Help Improve your CV with help from expert
guides. I was specifically responsible for overseeing X, Y, and Z in this project. Avoid overly casual
or informal sign-offs, which may give a negative impression. Understand how recruitment works
Cover letters have seen a downward trend for a reason. Blue ink is often preferred, as it can help
your signature stand out from the rest of the black text on your cover letter. Career 7 min read Best
career podcasts to listen to in 2024 Resume Help 11 min read How to list publications on a resume
like a pro with examples Browse All. Industries and jobs where your cover letter is vital While the
importance of cover letters is waning in many sectors, there are still specific industries and job types
in which they stand out. Rate my article: cover letter signature Average: 5 ( 1 votes) Thank you for
voting Maciej Tomaszewicz Maciej is a career expert and resume writer with a versatile professional
background, creating tools for job seekers in various industries. See actionable examples and get
expert tips along the way. If your contact details are not written in the header, include them after
your name. It’s the first thing an employer or a recruiter will see of you, so you want to make a good
impression. I love it! Want to learn more about writing a perfect cover letter. Personalize each
template for the specific job you're applying to. Zety is a career site fueled by the best career experts
and a community of millions of readers yearly. Updated on August 7, 2023: What Not to Put in a
Cover Letter. Sign-offs include “Kind regards,” “Regards,” and “Best regards.” Which you choose
will depend on the tone of your cover letter. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Journalism and a
master’s degree in English Literature and Creative Writing from the University of Sheffield. Some
closing salutations fit the business format of your document better than others. Be a pro. Choose the
right cover letter signature. Customer-facing and client-engagement roles Roles that require strong
interpersonal skills, such as sales, client services, or hospitality, benefit greatly from a well-crafted
cover letter. I look forward to discussing how my background aligns with your needs. Cover Letter
Format Pick the right format for your situation.
Here, it’s not just about what you say but how you say it. Widespread use of generic cover letter
generators The rise of generic cover letter generators marks a significant shift in 2024. This is where
you describe relevant, quantifiable accomplishments and skills that fit the job description. It's more
important to focus on creating a well-written, tailored cover letter that highlights your skills and
experience. Simply end the email cover letter with a quick sign-off and then type out your full name.
My expertise lies in developing and implementing shared analytics strategies that align with company
objectives and enhance overall reach. Create my resume now When you’re done, Zety’s resume
builder will score your resume and tell you exactly how to make it better. My entrepreneurial
mindset, coupled with my strategic thinking and execution abilities, enables me to identify unmet
needs and implement optimal solutions. Make sure the sign-off phrase matches the style of your
letter content and conveys your personality as well. Feel free to be friendly or positive, but always
avoid casual language. Let the employer see how keen you are to work for them. What’s important to
mention here is that it’s not required to sign a cover letter that’s being sent electronically or uploaded
on a company’s website. I look forward to discussing how my background aligns with your needs.
The rise of digital job applications and LinkedIn profiles has shifted the focus towards more direct
and succinct forms of professional presentation. My Account You control your data We and our
partners use cookies to provide you with our services and, depending on your settings, gather
analytics and marketing data. That includes sending it via traditional mail or paying a visit to a
company headquarters and delivering the cover letter to the hiring manager personally. Make sure
your contact details are correct on both your cover letter and CV. So, most of the time, it’s perfectly
acceptable to use your computer when you’re signing a cover letter. In fact, the whole point is to set
you apart from the crowd. Key Takeaways There are some simple rules of understanding how to sign
a cover letter. Let’s go briefly through them all: Put your cover letter signature after the last
paragraph, which will include a call to action and a proposition of a precise date for your meeting
with a recruiter. Or, in other words, whenever you print it, put your signature there. But in certain
situations, the chances of your cover letter being thoroughly reviewed are higher. However, doing so
adds a touch of professionalism and won’t hurt your letter. Recruiters, pressed for time, may not
always review cover letters. It's essential to research and understand the preferences of the company
you're applying to, but also be prepared for variability in how your cover letter is received. Taking the
time to personalize your cover letter with a signature may help you to stand out. Your cover letter
can illustrate how your unique skills and experiences align with the company's vision and culture,
helping you stand out in a pool of candidates. If you're applying for a job through a networking
contact who's referred you to the hiring manager, including a tailored cover letter with your resume
can make a strong impact. You can either use your full name, your first initial and last name, or your
title and last name.
Some employers may value cover letters more than others. Non-profit and community organizations
When you're aiming for a position in non-profit organizations, especially those focused on advocacy,
community work, or social services, your passion and commitment to their cause are as important as
your professional skills. Even if someone has exactly the same name as you, their signature won’t be
the same as yours. You can write it as an email if you’re applying online or print a copy to go with a
paper application. For example, if your signature is illegible or overly casual, it may give the
impression that you lack professionalism or attention to detail. A cover letter signature is a polite
sign-off followed by your full name and contact details. My Account You control your data We and
our partners use cookies to provide you with our services and, depending on your settings, gather
analytics and marketing data. Also avoid using italics or an alternative font as this can look childish.
Just before clicking “Send.” one tiny little question pops into your mind. Please enable JavaScript to
view the comments powered by Disqus. Good and bad examples of how to sign off a cover letter.
About About Find out more about Zety and its career experts. Updated on August 7, 2023: Cover
Letter Keywords That Can Make Your Document a Success. As mentioned in Authors Cast, using a
professional sign-off followed by your full name can create a sense of authenticity and sincerity. I
believe my personal values and extensive experience in the medical research field would make me a
great fit for your organization. However, if you want to sign a printed cover letter, you should leave
some blank space between your cover letter sign-off and your full name at the end of the document
and sign it with black ink. Contact Our customer service team is ready to help. Once you are pleased
with it, go ahead and put your John Hancock at the bottom of the page. Similar articles Are Cover
Letters Necessary in 2024. Our aim is to help you make an informed decision on whether to sign
your cover letter and how to do it professionally. The cover letter signature is a significant part of a
cover letter. Whatever happens next, you should see this as a big achievement. When your
personality is a key selling point In industries where personality and cultural fit are paramount, a
cover letter provides a unique opportunity to let your individuality shine. Recognize the digital abyss
In today's digital job market, your cover letter might not always make it past the application tracking
systems (ATS). Here’s a quick breakdown of which sign-off types work for each cover letter format.
Look up how to generate an electronic signature for whatever email service you use. Let’s take a
quick look at how you can sign each of them like a pro. Is there something about this role that makes
it stand out from similar roles elsewhere. It’s the first thing an employer or a recruiter will see of you,
so you want to make a good impression. It can explain the nuances of your technical skills and
experiences in a way that a resume might not.
