Why a Strong Cover Letter Closing Matters
The closing of your cover letter is far more crucial than many applicants realize. It’s the last impression you leave on a potential employer, and it can significantly influence their perception of you. A well-crafted closing serves as a final opportunity to reiterate your interest in the position, highlight your most relevant skills, and prompt the reader to take the next step. A weak or generic closing, on the other hand, can undermine all the effort you’ve put into the rest of the letter, leaving the hiring manager with a less favorable impression of your candidacy. A strong closing is about clarity, professionalism, and a compelling call to action. It’s where you transition from introducing yourself to signaling your eagerness and readiness to contribute to the company’s success. Properly executed, the closing can be a powerful tool in securing an interview and, ultimately, landing the job.
Highlight Your Key Skills and Value Proposition
One of the smartest tips for closing your cover letter is to briefly revisit your key skills and how they align with the job requirements. Don’t simply repeat what you’ve already said, but rather, synthesize the most important points. This shows the hiring manager that you understand the role and how your skills can contribute to the company’s goals. For instance, you can mention your proficiency in a specific software, your experience in managing projects, or your ability to communicate effectively. The value proposition is the unique benefit you bring to the table. Think about what makes you stand out from other candidates, your unique selling points. This might include a specific achievement, a particular skill set, or even your experience with a specific industry. By highlighting your value proposition, you reinforce why you’re the best fit for the role.
Summarize Your Interest and Enthusiasm
Expressing your genuine interest and enthusiasm for the position and the company is an important element of a strong cover letter closing. This goes beyond simply saying “I am interested.” Instead, show your enthusiasm through specific statements that reflect your understanding of the company’s mission, values, or recent achievements. You might mention something that excites you about the company’s products or services, or perhaps refer to a recent initiative that aligns with your own interests. This conveys that you have done your research and are genuinely excited about the opportunity. This enthusiasm is infectious and leaves a positive impression on the reader. Hiring managers are more likely to be drawn to candidates who are passionate about the opportunity and the organization, because it suggests a willingness to go above and beyond. The closing is your last chance to make a memorable impression, and showing genuine interest is crucial.
Mention the Next Steps and Call to Action
A well-crafted cover letter closing includes a clear call to action. This is where you tell the hiring manager what you want them to do next. Make it easy for them to take the next step by clearly stating your expectations. This could be as simple as requesting an interview or expressing your availability for a follow-up call. Avoid being passive; actively encourage them to consider you for the role. State your availability for an interview at their earliest convenience. Or, if you’re applying through a specific platform, you might suggest checking your application status. A strong call to action can significantly increase your chances of getting a response, as it leaves no room for ambiguity. By explicitly stating the desired next step, you make it easier for the hiring manager to take action. It demonstrates confidence and initiative on your part, both of which are highly valued qualities in a potential employee.
Proofread and Ensure Professionalism
No matter how well-written your cover letter is, any errors in the closing can undermine your entire application. Therefore, it’s essential to proofread your cover letter meticulously. Check for grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and typos. These errors can reflect negatively on your attention to detail and professionalism. Read your cover letter aloud, and ask someone else to review it for you. A fresh pair of eyes can often catch errors that you might have missed. Ensure that the tone of your closing is consistent with the rest of your letter. It should be professional and respectful. Avoid using casual language or slang. Use a formal closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Respectfully”, and make sure your contact information is accurate and up-to-date. Confirm that your name, phone number, and email address are correct and easy to find. This is critical, because it is how the hiring manager will reach you.
Using a Professional Tone in Your Closing
Maintain a professional tone throughout your cover letter, and especially in your closing. This means using formal language and avoiding any casual or informal expressions. Refrain from using slang, contractions, or overly familiar language. Be respectful and courteous in your language. Avoid any statements that could be perceived as demanding or presumptuous. Instead of saying “I expect to hear from you soon,” try “I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.” The tone of your closing should be confident but not arrogant. Express your enthusiasm and value, but also remain humble. Your closing should reflect your professionalism and respect for the reader. The tone should be consistent with your overall cover letter, and it should leave a positive lasting impression of your communication skills.
Reinforce Your Suitability for the Role
In your cover letter closing, make a final point to reinforce your suitability for the role. Briefly restate your key qualifications and how they align with the job requirements. This serves as a reminder to the hiring manager of why you are a good fit for the position. You might briefly mention a key skill or experience that makes you a strong candidate. This is the perfect place to reiterate your value proposition—what unique benefits you bring to the table. The goal here is to leave a lasting impression of how well you meet the employer’s needs. Keep your closing concise and to the point. Avoid repeating everything from the previous sections; instead, focus on the most critical points that make you a compelling candidate. This will help the hiring manager remember the key reasons why they should consider you.
Express Gratitude for the Opportunity
A great closing line always includes an expression of gratitude. Thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration. This simple act of courtesy leaves a positive impression and shows your respect for their efforts. Avoid being generic; make your expression of gratitude sincere and genuine. For instance, you could say, “Thank you for your time and consideration; I appreciate the opportunity to apply for this position.” This shows that you respect their time and the process. You can also personalize your gratitude if appropriate, mentioning something specific about the company or the role that you’re thankful for. This will make your closing more memorable. Expressing gratitude not only enhances your professional image, but also sets a positive tone for the rest of your application. Remember that a simple thank you can go a long way in making a favorable impression.
Formatting the Closing Line for Impact
The formatting of your cover letter closing can be just as important as the words themselves. Ensure that your closing is visually appealing and easy to read. Use a professional font and size that is consistent with the rest of your cover letter. Consider the overall layout of your letter, including the spacing, alignment, and margins. A well-formatted cover letter demonstrates your attention to detail. It helps your closing stand out. Your closing should be clearly separated from the main body of the letter, usually by an empty line. Use a standard formal closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards”. Follow this with a comma, and then your full name. Ensure that your closing is aligned with the rest of your letter, usually left-aligned or justified. All of these formatting elements contribute to a professional presentation that enhances your chances of making a positive impact.
Tips for a Memorable Cover Letter Closing
To make your cover letter closing truly memorable, consider adding a personal touch that reflects your personality and enthusiasm. Tailor your closing to the specific job and company. Show that you’ve done your research. Referencing something specific about the company or the role can make your closing more engaging. Be concise and avoid unnecessary jargon. Keep it short and to the point, leaving a lasting positive impression. Focus on what makes you unique and how you can benefit the company. Your cover letter is your opportunity to showcase your skills and personality. The closing is the final chance to make a memorable impact. By following these tips, you can ensure that your closing line makes a positive impression, increasing your chances of landing an interview and securing the job.