cover letter for business school

MBA Cover Letter: How to Write One

Including mba cover letter samples.

Featured Expert: Srikanth Raghavan, MBA

An MBA cover letter can serve as the front page of your MBA application to top programs like the Wharton School of Business . An MBA cover letter is not always required, but it can be a good optional addition to your application, especially for programs which value professional experience such as Stanford business school . MBA cover letters have similar format, tone and content to cover letters written for job applications, but they are focused on you and your candidacy for an academic MBA program. A good MBA cover letter is a way to “pitch yourself” to an MBA admissions committee. In this blog, we’ll look at whether or not you need to write an MBA cover letter, how it can help your application and how to write one. We’ve also included some MBA cover letter samples as a guide.

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Article Contents 7 min read

Do you need an mba cover letter.

An MBA cover letter is a part of your MBA application package. An MBA cover letter, much like a cover letter for a job application, is a way to introduce yourself and your qualifications to the MBA admissions committee.

Depending on the school or program you’ve applied to, it may be a requirement, or it may be an optional addition to your application. Some programs will ask you for an MBA cover letter as a sort of introduction to your application, and it is the first document the admissions committee will read about you. For other schools, the MBA cover letter is asked for in lieu of an MBA statement of purpose or MBA personal statement essay.

If your school requires an MBA cover letter for the application, you will need to submit one at the front of your application. The admissions package will include instructions on formatting and word count, so be sure to follow these to the letter. It’s also important to check for any other requirements an write a different cover letter for each school you are applying to. If your chosen program does not stipulate that it requires an MBA cover letter, you can still submit one if you feel it will enhance your application or you can discuss it with an MBA admissions consulting service, which can help you put together a complete MBA application. For example, if you want to know how to get into Harvard Business School , a cover letter is not a requirement, but it can be a nice addition to your app and an example of your professional writing ability.

Simply put, an MBA cover letter is a formal introduction of who you are, what skills and strengths you will contribute to an MBA program, a demonstration of your knowledge of the chosen MBA program, and a way to grab the admissions committee’s interest. It’s a formal way of introducing your overall application and acts as a “cover page” of sorts so the admissions committee will know what to expect. It’s a summary of your experience and qualifications, only it focuses on a particular MBA program rather than a job position.

Some things an MBA cover letter can include are:

MBA cover letters, when used properly, are an excellent tool for MBA applicants to use. A cover letter is your formal introduction to the admission committee, but it also helps you to “pitch yourself” as a candidate, to speak in business terms. A cover letter helps to introduce and cement your position, or help set yourself apart, like an MBA diversity essay .

Lastly, a cover letter can be used to manage the expectations of the MBA admissions committee. This means if your GMAT score is below average, or there are gaps in your education you want to explain, you can get on top of these potential issues at the start of your application. You can offer an explanation in your cover letter, so whoever is first reading your application already has it when they encounter the information later in the application package.  ","label":"Managing expectations","title":"Managing expectations"}]" code="tab1" template="BlogArticle">

An MBA cover letter is typically no longer than one page, or between 200 and 400 words. Any longer and you risk losing the interest of your reader. Any shorter and you run the risk of saying too little about yourself. With an MBA cover letter, your aim is to be concise and precise.

Your cover letter also needs to be formal, professional and contain only relevant information and details. It’s a highly focused document, but you shouldn’t just repeat information from other parts of your application, such as the MBA resume . The MBA cover letter should expand on the cut and dry details of your resume and highlight the most important experiences you have. An MBA cover letter also has a more rigid structure than perhaps some other written sections of your application. It needs to include your information, the date, your contact’s information as well as a few paragraphs for the introduction, body and closing. It should also end with a formal thank you and salutation.

A typical cover letter template looks like this:

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[Your Contact Information]

[Contact Name]

[Contact Title]

[School Address]

[Formal Greeting]

[Introduction Paragraph]

[Body Paragraph 1]

[Body Paragraph 2]

[Body Paragraph 3]

[Closing Paragraph]

[Sign off and thank you]

Below we’ve included a few samples of MBA cover letters to give you an idea of how to write your own. For the purposes of these samples, we’ve left out the date and contact information, leaving only the main body and closing of the cover letter. For more help with cover letters, you can also read BeMo’s physician cover letter examples.

MBA Cover Letter Sample #1

Dear Director Watson,

I am very interested in enrolling in [Business School] in the current admissions cycle. Your program is my top choice for my MBA, as I believe I have sufficient drive and the right qualifications to make me an ideal candidate for admission. I am a graduate of [University] where I studied Business Administration. My intention has always been to enter the world of business, and I chose to attend this program so I could gain foundational knowledge of how business works.

In my professional life, I followed suit. I began working while still in high school as a cashier for a grocery store. I found working very rewarding, even more so when I requested and was granted a transfer to the backend warehouse. After many years of working for this store, I was eventually promoted to assistant warehouse manager and I continued to work there during my undergraduate years. I gained firsthand experience in employee management and managerial accounting under the tutelage of my manager as well as my professors, and I soon became one of the top students in my class. I feel these experiences have prepared me for the next challenge and have piqued my interest in taking the next step and earning my MBA.

As a top business school, your program has a reputation for educational excellence in business administration, and I want to expand the knowledge I have and learn from the very best. I have taken it upon myself to enthusiastically read the works of Professor Kinsky and Professor Cranston for their understandings of employee management and management styles. I found their insights helped me to deeply reflect on my own managerial goals and management style. It would be a great pleasure to attend their courses.

I sincerely thank you for taking the time to consider me as a candidate for your program. I look to meeting you in person during admission interviews.

Kevin Ackerman

MBA Cover Letter Sample #2

Dear Dr. Smith,

I’m writing today to express my interest in enrolling in the MBA program at [Business School]. Last year, I graduated from [University] with a Bachelor’s in Environmental Sciences, and my intention is to continue my work in the non-profit sector. I believe a master’s in business administration from your program will allow me to increase my professional skills and the value I can create for non-profit organizations.

For the past five years, I have worked for [Non-profit organization], which works to keep natural park areas clean and well cared for. I started as a volunteer, offering my free time to help with event set up, clean up and informing our supporters about opportunities to pitch in. From a volunteer I gained a paid position as the assistant event coordinator and have now become to lead event coordinator and organization’s treasurer.

During my undergraduate degree, I especially enjoyed my courses in project management and financial management, as I learned valuable skills I could apply in my new position to help the organization grow. It is my intention to pursue an MBA so I can deepen my financial and management knowledge so I can continue to develop professionally in my current position and eventually seek employment with a larger non-profit organization. Your program’s emphasis on sculpting community-minded leaders is one of the primary reasons why I chose to apply. Your program’s values of honesty and integrity also resonate deeply with me.

My full CV is included with my application and includes a detailed list of my responsibilities in my current position. I would like to extend my thanks for reading this letter and my application. I look forward to enrolling at [Business School] soon.

Kind regards,

Alma Estevan

An MBA cover letter is a sort of “cover page” for your MBA application and is usually placed at the front of your application package. An academic cover letter serves the same purpose as a cover letter for a job application.

Some business schools will require the MBA cover letter and others won’t. It’s best to check out the admission requirements and application components for your school and make sure you follow the cover letter format and word count requested.

A typical MBA cover letter is between 200 and 400 words. It’s best to keep it concise, no longer than one page long.

An MBA cover letter usually includes an introduction of your candidacy, your professional experience, your strengths and skills, and your knowledge of the MBA program.

An MBA cover letter is a formal letter, and uses the same format as a cover letter you might write for a job application. It needs to include an introduction, body paragraphs and conclusion. It should also have your name and contact details, the date, a formal thank you and salutation. 

Yes; a cover letter is usually shorter and more formal than a statement of purpose. They serve similar functions, but a cover letter is more focused on your professional experience whereas a statement of purpose might look at your personal motivations, career goals and the “bigger picture”.

MBA admissions committees want to see professionalism in your cover letter, as well as convincing arguments. They want to know that you can follow instructions, that you’ve done your research and you know how to make your point.

A good MBA cover letter shows that you can pitch yourself. As a business professional, you’ll need to pitch your ideas, so think of the cover letter as a way of pitching your MBA candidacy and proving to the admissions committee that you have high potential as a business professional.

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MBA Cover Letter Examples and Templates for 2024

• Cover Letter Examples
• Cover Letter Text Examples
• How To Write a MBA Cover Letter

A great MBA cover letter highlights how you applied your business strategy and administration expertise to generate results in your industry. Demonstrate how you’ve leveraged the knowledge you gained from your MBA program to drive positive business outcomes throughout your career. Our guide provides expert tips and examples to help you translate your academic and professional achievements into a winning cover letter.

MBA Cover Letter Templates and Examples

• Entry-Level
• Senior-Level

MBA Text-Only Cover Letter Templates and Examples

Melissa Thompson, MBA  Financial Analyst | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | Seattle, WA 12345 | LinkedIn

January 1, 2024

Pat Martin Senior Hiring Manager Capital Funds Inc. (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Pat Martin:

As an equities analyst for Jenkins and Associates, I conducted due diligence and enabled data-driven decision-making for large mergers and acquisitions of retail businesses. In 2023, my team was responsible for 27% of gross profits, totaling $7.5 million. I welcome the opportunity to bring my track record of success to your organization.

With three years of experience and promotion from an equity research associate to a senior analyst, I’m drawn to Capital Funds’ diverse investment capabilities in the global marketplace. My acumen for identifying stocks with superior earning potential would be an asset to the portfolio managers on the international growth equity team. Some of my previous achievements include:

• Researched business trends, analyzed economic climates, identified potential risks and deterioration in business fundamentals, and contributed to over $7.5 million in gross revenue
• Conducted due diligence for mergers and acquisitions, analyzed company financials and market indicators, and delivered presentations to senior investment analysts
• Created reports on the financial status of potential investments and communicated findings to shareholders to support high-level decision-making

I’d like to set up an interview to discuss how my expertise as a financial analyst can help inform your organization’s investment strategy. Feel free to contact me via phone or email at your convenience. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best regards,

Melissa Thompson

Yaling Zhang, MBA Junior Portfolio Manager | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | New York, NY 12345 | LinkedIn

Matthew Johnson Senior Hiring Manager NY Equities (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Johnson:

As a junior portfolio manager for Jones Investments, I managed 50 multi-asset portfolio accounts valued at up to $15 million and communicated with clients to identify investment opportunities. I can bring the same level of diligence to the role of associate portfolio manager with NY Equities.

With eight years of experience in portfolio management, I can support your organization’s strategic goals of investing globally in untapped market verticals. In 2023, I received the Portfolio Manager of the Year Award for achieving a 300% return on investment (ROI) following a key acquisition. Below, you’ll find a list of my most notable accomplishments:

• Collaborated with senior financial analysts to develop comprehensive investment strategies, identify optimal portfolio structures, and exceed ROI goals by 200% to 300%
• Served as the point of contact for 50 multi-million dollar client accounts, managed stakeholder relationships, and identified opportunities to enhance portfolio growth and performance
• Performed due diligence on potential investments, evaluated risks and market indicators, and analyzed financial health and positioning of acquisitions

I would like to schedule an interview to discuss how my expertise in strategic investing can help grow your client portfolios. Feel free to contact me via phone or email at your convenience. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Yaling Zhang

Tyrone Jackson, MBA IT Project Manager | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | San Francisco, CA 12345 | LinkedIn

Lori Taylor Senior Hiring Manager Cadence Technologies (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Ms. Taylor:

As you can see from my attached resume, I have over seven years of experience managing multi-million dollar projects that align technological solutions with business needs. My ability to identify process improvement opportunities and enhance revenue growth would be a strong asset to your team in the information technology (IT) project manager role.

Cadence Technologies’ reputation for delivering innovative cloud-based solutions to solve complex business challenges is what draws me to apply for this opportunity. With a master’s of business administration degree and a strong background within the tech industry, I can help your team continue to excel. Some of my previous achievements include:

• Led the implementation of new IT and cloud solutions for a portfolio of enterprise clients valued at over $20 million, including security systems, disaster recovery, data protection
• Managed budgets of up to $5 million and oversaw teams of up to 20 developers, programmers, and network specialists throughout all phases of the project lifecycle
• Integrated new Agile development processes to reduce project delivery times by 10%

I look forward to telling you more about how my business acumen and technology background can benefit your organization. Feel free to contact me via phone or email to schedule an interview. I appreciate your time and consideration.

Tyrone Jackson

How To Write an MBA Cover Letter

The first step in building an impactful MBA cover letter is to research your target company. What qualifications is the organization looking for in a candidate? How does your background align with their long-term goals and business needs? Structure your content around answering these questions, as this is the surest way to show potential employers you’re the ideal candidate for the position.

For example, say you were applying for a position that requires a unique blend of business knowledge and technical acumen. Start by citing your MBA to show you’ve cultivated a strong understanding of business strategy. Follow up with a complex technology project that demonstrates your ability to bring a tactical business perspective to drive the delivery of technical solutions.

1. Contact information and salutation

Greeting the hiring manager by name — Mr. or Ms. [Last Name] is important. This small personal touch shows you’ve taken the time to learn more about the company before submitting your MBA cover letter and you’re genuinely interested in joining their team. If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, use a variation of “Dear Hiring Manager.” You can also feature a link to your MBA in the header to immediately draw attention to your degree.

2. Introductory paragraph

Open your MBA cover letter with a powerful introduction to draw the reader in and entice them to read further. Highlight your years of industry experience and relevant qualifications that match the job description. Anchor your paragraph with one of your most notable career achievements to showcase your proven track record of success. Select an accomplishment demonstrating how the skills you’ve garnered from your MBA program have allowed you to generate results for previous employers.

3. Body paragraphs

In the body paragraphs of your MBA cover letter, describe your strongest professional achievements and qualifications. Start by mentioning details about the company’s reputation or mission statement and how your background aligns with their needs.

For example, suppose an organization is seeking a candidate to perform due diligence on potential investments. In this situation, it would be advantageous to emphasize how you’ve evaluated company financials, risks, and market indicators to identify the most promising acquisitions. This provides context for how you applied skill sets and knowledge from your MBA program in a real-world business setting.

• Researched business trends, analyzed economic climates, identified potential risks and deterioration in business fundamentals, and contributed to over $7.5 million in revenue

4. Key skills and qualifications

For an MBA cover letter, highlight qualifications that emphasize your talent for business strategy and financial analysis. Rather than providing a list of skills, carefully weave key terms from the job posting into your document in a way that feels natural. Below, you’ll find a list of potential skills hiring managers will be looking for during the job search:

5. Closing paragraph

The conclusion of your MBA cover letter needs to include a call-to-action (CTA) that encourages the hiring manager to bring you in for an interview. Highlight how your expertise in business administration can help create value for the company you’re applying to. Be sure to thank the hiring manager for their time in the final sentence.

MBA Cover Letter Tips

1. highlight your tactical approach to business administration.

To make a strong impression on the hiring manager, emphasize how you’ve achieved positive results using both a tactical and strategic approach to business decision-making. In the example below, the candidate illustrates how their business administration skills have allowed them to deliver ideal technical solutions for client organizations. This demonstrates how their blend of business and industry knowledge has allowed them to develop high-impact strategies:

As you can see from my attached resume, I have over seven years of experience managing multi-million dollar projects that align technological solutions with business needs. My ability to identify process improvement opportunities and enhance revenue growth would be a strong asset to your team in the IT project manager role.

2. Quantify your business achievements

Feature strong monetary figures and data points to draw the reader’s eye and demonstrate your history of generating results. Quantifying your achievements helps to establish a sense of scope for your experience and breaks up the monotony of the text on the page. In the example below, the applicant highlights how their investment strategies have consistently exceeded performance goals:

3. Align your MBA cover letter with the job description

Carefully tailor your MBA cover letter towards each individual job opportunity. In addition to featuring key skills from the posting, it’s important to emphasize how your MBA and industry experience can create value for potential employers. In the example below, the candidate mentions the company’s goal of improving growth in untapped market verticals. They follow this up by featuring a prestigious award they received as a portfolio manager, which clearly conveys that their background aligns with the organization’s needs.

With eight years of experience in portfolio management, I can support your organization’s strategic goals of investing globally in untapped market verticals. In 2023, I received the Portfolio Manager of the Year Award for achieving a 300% ROI following a key acquisition. Below, you’ll find a list of my most notable accomplishments:

MBA Cover Letter FAQs

Why should i include an mba cover letter -.

Submitting an MBA cover letter offers several unique advantages for job seekers. Having recently finished your master’s degree, the cover letter provides an opportunity to show how you’ve applied your advanced business knowledge in a professional setting. This also allows you to express your enthusiasm and genuine interest in the company, which can help you stand out from other candidates during the job search.

How long should my MBA cover letter be? -

While you may be tempted to provide a comprehensive overview of your academic and professional experience , limiting your cover letter to 400 words or less is best. Long-winded paragraphs and excessive amounts of detail can actually distract the reader from your most relevant qualifications. Avoid simply reiterating job responsibilities from the resume and instead focus on reinforcing your strongest career achievements.

Should I use artificial intelligence (AI) to write my cover letter? -

Artificial intelligence (AI) can be a powerful tool, but it needs to be used carefully and strategically. If you allow AI to craft all of your content, it's likely to result in a generic document filled with inaccuracies. When using an AI tool for writing support, be sure to infuse the cover letter with your unique voice and insights. Hiring managers want to hear more about your story, which can never be fully captured through a machine-learning algorithm.

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Frank Hackett

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

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Resumes: What You Need to Know

The resume is an opportunity to market yourself to a prospective employer. It should be succinct, target an employer's needs, and distinguish you from your competitors. Before you get started, think about your strengths, weaknesses, personal preferences, and motivations. You should also consider the company's needs, who your competition might be, and your unique skill set. The best way to convince employers that you will add value is to show them that you've done it before.

Alumni Resume Book

Our Alumni Resume Book connects you with organizations looking for talent. Visit 12twenty (our recruiting platform) and upload your resume to get started. You should complete your Profile in 12twenty by updating your Background tab which contains information about your career experience, skills, preferences and more. Ensuring your Background tab is complete and accurate will greatly improve your chance of being contacted by an organization. Looking to connect with fellow HBS alumni? Upload your resume to the Alumni Networking Resume Book to kick start those connections.

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• Review line-for-line targeted feedback on your resume
• Re-upload your resume up to 10 times to track improvement

Sign up using your HBS email address. Account requests are granted within 24 business hours. During holidays and winter break (December 24th – January 1st) turnaround time will be delayed until the CPD office reopens. Please note, we recommend you review your resume before considering it final.

Resumes: Sections, Templates & Examples

• Contact details - Let others know who you are and how to get in touch with you. In addition to your name, you should list your mailing address, phone number, and email address. It is expected to be found at the top of the page. No need to include it on additional pages.
• Professional history - Start with your most recent role and list in descending chronology. For each role, provide a sentence or two that describes the scope of your responsibility. Then in bullet format, provide accomplishment statements. To write an accomplishment statement, state the problem you encountered, the action you took and the result or impact of your actions. For example, "Led team in implementing a new general ledger package by providing expertise and encouragement, which contributed to a successful, on-time project completion."
• Education - Spell out your degree so it will stand out better. It is not necessary to include your GPA or GMAT score. Do not list courses. Do list any leadership roles or study abroad experiences.
• Summary/Profile - A great opportunity to tell the reader exactly what you want them to know. It should be 3-4 sentences in paragraph form following your contact information. Be careful not to load up on overused resume jargon and avoid listing previous jobs/education as it is redundant. Instead, focus on your branding statement, unique themes in your career path, and skills.
• Key skills - Listing your skills is a great way for the reader to quickly evaluate your skill set. List skills that are relevant to your next position. For each skill, you will need a proof statement in the form of an accomplishment stated in the professional experience section. A good way to set up this section is in 2 or 3 columns with 3-4 skills in each column. The heading could be "Key Areas of Expertise" or "Core Competencies".
• Personal/Interests - Only include if it helps tell your story.
• Additional roles - If you participate in organizations outside of your professional employment, you may list these in a separate section. Headings are typically "Volunteer Leadership Roles" or "Community Service".
• Licenses and Professional Certifications - If you possess a license or certification, these should be called out in a separate section.
• Objective - No longer in style. Do not include in your resume.
• References available upon request - No longer in style. Do not include in your resume.
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Chronological - This is the most commonly used layout. Recommended for a mostly consistent record of employment showing progression/growth from position to position. Not recommended for gaps in employment dates, those out of job market for some time, or changing careers.

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Streamlined Chronological - This layout also shows progression from one job to the next, but does not include extra sections such as Summary/Profile or Areas of Expertise. Recommended for recent alumni.

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Chronological/Functional Hybrid Resume - In this layout, you can highlight your employment history in a straight chronological manner, but also make it immediately clear you have filled a variety of roles that use different but related skill sets. This is useful to provide a few accomplishments in the beginning to show a theme. Each role would also have specific accomplishment statements.

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Cover Letter Writing

It is essential to send a cover letter with your resume to provide a recruiter with insight into your qualifications, experience, and motivation for seeking a position. The letter also conveys your personal communication style, tone, and professionalism. An effective employment letter should:

• Be targeted and personalized
• State why you are interested in the company
• Explain how you can fill a need
• Convey your enthusiasm about the opportunity
• Suggest next steps for communication and action

Guidelines & Examples

Investigate your target company. What is the company's "breaking news?" What drives their business? What are their greatest challenges and opportunities? How can you contribute? eBaker can help with your research.

Outline your objectives using relevant information that attracts the attention of the reader.

• Salutation Address the letter to a specific person. Capture the reader's attention and briefly introduce yourself. Mention the referral/company contact, if applicable. State the purpose of your letter.
• Body Describe relevant information you discovered about the company. Discuss the position offered or the position you are looking for. Detail how your skills will benefit the company.
• Closing Convey your enthusiasm. Anticipate response.

Pay close attention to sentence structure, spelling, and punctuation. Always print your letter to check for typographical errors. Have a friend, colleague, or family member review your letter whenever possible.

Cover letters are the place to briefly and directly address the gap in your career. For example, "I am returning to the workforce after a period of raising children." Then address your strengths, qualifications and goals. Emphasize your excitement and preparedness to re-enter the workforce now.

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Branding You

Resume writing tips  , creating visual impact.

A concise, visually appealing resume will make a stronger impression than a dense, text-laden document. Respect page margins and properly space the text. Learn to appreciate the value of "white space." Limit a resume to one or two pages but not one and ¼. Ensure content is balanced on both pages. A CV is typically longer because it includes additional sections such as publications and research.

Use Parallel Construction

Select a consistent order of information, format, and spacing. If one experience starts with a brief overview followed by bullet points, subsequent experiences should follow a similar form. Parallel construction—including the use of action verbs (pdf) (login required) to start all phrases—greatly enhances a resume's readability.

Always Proofread

Pay close attention to margin alignment, spelling, punctuation, and dates. Read your resume backward to check for typographical errors. (You will focus on individual words, rather than the meaning of the text.) Better yet, have a friend, colleague, or family member review your resume.

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Improve Your Writing

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The Best Cover Letter I Ever Received

• David Silverman

In my last post I talked about how to make your résumé more likely to catch the attention of a hiring manager. As a follow up, I’d like to discuss cover letters. Here’s my basic philosophy on them: don’t bother. That’s because the cover letters I see usually fall into one of three categories: The […]

In my last post I talked about how to make your résumé more likely to catch the attention of a hiring manager . As a follow up, I’d like to discuss cover letters. Here’s my basic philosophy on them: don’t bother.

• David Silverman has had ten careers so far, including entrepreneur, executive, and business writing professor. He is the author of Typo: The Last American Typesetter or How I Made and Lost 4 Million Dollars and of the April 2011 HBR article, Synthesis: Constructive Confessions .

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The average recruiter spends six to eight seconds scanning a resume. What do you want your target audience’s key takeaway to be in that brief time?

Your resume is a marketing tool designed to communicate relevant experience and accomplishments to your target audience. A resume is not a biography.

Tailor your resume and cover letter to different audiences, and highlight the information most relevant to that audience. You can find many examples of resumes and cover letters in the Career Handbook for Experienced Professionals.

Resume Guidelines

• Header: Includes your name, email, phone number, and LinkedIn URL. You do not need a street address. Repeat your name on the header or footer of page 2.
• Summary: Communicates your core brand and competencies. Define what’s unique and relevant to your target role. It often includes your years of experience and bullet points of your key accomplishments or skills. Limit the summary to 4 lines plus bullet points.
• Experience: Highlights work experience in reverse chronological order. If career changing, consider organizing bullet points under functional categories ( see sample ). If your company is well known, then no company description is required. If it is not well known, add a one-line description after the company name.
• Additional Work Experience: Any experience older than 15-20 years or not relevant for the desired role should be listed in another section titled “Additional Work Experience.” In this section, each job should list only the employer and the job title.
• Education: Follows “Experience” section because we recommend that experienced professionals lead with their professional story. If you are over 50 , consider omitting graduation dates.
• Additional: Highlights languages, relevant skills, volunteer work, and/or interests.
• For each job, include size and scope, revenue or budget managed, and number of people on your team.
• Bullets should focus on results and measurable impacts you’ve had, as well as unique contributions.
• Be as quantitative as possible: revenue growth, money saved, market share growth, etc.
• Use strong action verbs .
• Make the most interesting fact at the beginning of the bullet; it will entice the reader to read the rest. 
• Maximum of two pages. Remember to put your name and email on the second page of the resume, in case the pages get separated.
• Left-hand justified as U.S. recruiters scan from left to right.
• Use bold font to highlight either your company or your title, whichever will be more impactful to your audience.
• For each job, use 3-4 bullet points of no more than 2 lines each .
• Minimum 0.70 margins. White space helps people scan.
• Avoid additional formatting like lines, graphics, and italics — unless they help readability.
• Use an easy-to-read font such as Calibri or Arial in 11 or 12 point size .

How to Write an Attention-Getting Resume

Cover letter guidelines.

Your cover letter communicates your interest, qualifications, fit, and value to a prospective employer. In other words: Why do you want me? And, why do I want you? Keep it brief and simple.

Why You Want Me

• Talk about why you are a match for the job.
• Highlight relevant skills and experiences as well as demonstrated passion for the sector.
• Bullet the highlights (no more than 4) for easier reading.

Why I Want You

• Express clearly why you are drawn to this company and role.
• Communicate your enthusiasm.
• Show your interest by working in your knowledge of the company and industry and its products, services, customers, and recent news.

Career Handbook for Working Professionals

Request a complimentary copy of the Career Handbook for Working Professionals — a digital guide with tips, templates, and best practices for every stage of the job search.

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Cover Letter Creation Guide

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A cover letter can be a valuable tool to provide additional context to your application beyond what you can provide in your resume. For example, you might include why you are interested in working in the industry, organization, or that particular role. A well-written cover letter can help to demonstrate your fit for the role.

FIRST PARAGRAPH OR INTRODUCTION: ACTS AS BASIS OR PURPOSE OF THE LETTER

• Briefly introduce yourself (“I am a graduate student at Purdue University’s Daniels School of Business interested in…”).
• Do not include your name; it is obvious who you are because you will sign the letter.
• State the position for which you are applying, including position number if available and exact title.
• Indicate where you learned of the opportunity or what prompted you to write.
• If you are trying to set up an informational meeting to learn about the organization or trends in the field, state that you would appreciate an opportunity to talk with an organization representative about these issues.
• Transition to the second paragraph with a closing sentence that may reference what qualifies you for the position, what intrigues you about the company and/or how you fit with company goals.

SECOND PARAGRAPH OR BODY: SUPPORTS YOUR CLAIMS FOR BEING THE RIGHT CANDIDATE FOR THIS POSITION/ORGANIZATION

• Make a concise and focused case for how your experience, interests and skills fit the employer’s needs.
• Thoroughly research the company or organization and position description.
• Identify key words within the position description — skills and requirements — that will help you match the position and organization to your background and experiences.
• Avoid merely reciting your resume but provide enough interest for the reader to want to examine your resume for detailed information on your experiences.
• Emphasize contributions you can make to the position and why it is in the employer’s interest to hire you.
• Do not emphasize what you will get from the position or organization.

THIRD PARAGRAPH OR CLOSING: REITERATES YOUR INTEREST IN THE POSITION/ORGANIZATION

• Thank the individual for considering you as an applicant.
• Provide contact information (typically both email and cell phone) even if shown in the header or at the bottom.
• Demonstrate initiative by stating that you will contact the individual within a specific time period (“I will contact you the week of…to discuss the potential opportunity to interview, answer any questions he/she might have, or discuss the position in greater depth”).
• Include closing sentence to express enthusiasm for company/position and that you look forward to speaking with this individual.

TOP 10 BLUNDERS

• Shows no knowledge of company
• Addressed to the wrong person or company
• Spelling, grammar, punctuation errors
• Passive voice and/or awkward language
• Overly aggressive, boastful, presumptuous
• Self-centered rather than employer-centered
• Looks unprofessional and/or informal
• Merely repeats content from resume
• Too short — no value added
• Too long — won’t get read

The  Online Writing Lab  (OWL) at Purdue University houses writing resources and instructional materials, and provides its services at no cost.

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Resume & Cover Letters

Write a resume & cover letter.

Crafting an organized, actionable, and focused resume and cover letter is crucial for getting a job or internship. These are two components to your search process and how you can tell your story.

How We Can Help

• Download our Resume Guide & Tips and our Cover Letter Guide & Tips. These guides can be found in the Resources Library in your Handshake account.
• Meet with a Career Ambassador to review your resume, cover letter, or application for a part-time job, internship, or campus leadership position.
• Schedule an appointment with a Career Coach in Handshake .
• Attend our resume and cover letter workshops to learn how to create a professional resume and how to customize your resume and cover letters for each job application.

The average employer only spends less than 10 seconds reviewing each resume, so you need to ensure that yours is targeted, error-free, and easy to skim.

Get started and hone in

• General and Policy Resume Guide
• Business Resume Guide
• STEM and Health Resume Guide
• Federal Resumes and USAJobs Applications
• Resumes vs CVs

VMock–Virtual Resume Review

VMock is a 24-7 online resume review tool that leverages technologies to provide instant, personalized feedback on your resume. The feedback is based on criteria gathered from employers and global best practices. VMock is designed to work with resumes from many different fields across various industries.

VMock will:

• Provide you with resume guidelines based on your industry template to ensure that you do not miss the fine details and establish a great first impression.
• Give you an aggregated resume score to assess the strength of your resume benchmarked against your GW peers.
• Tell you how well you have marketed your communication skills and leadership experience; and how impactful your bullet points are.
• Give you line-by-line suggestions to improve your resume content.

Access VMock

Make sure you are using your  [email protected]  to register. If you use your  [email protected] , the system will not allow you to register. For FAQs and more information on getting started with VMock, check out  this article in Handshake .

A cover letter is a primary way to provide an introduction to a potential contact or employer. Your cover letter should:

• Communicate your accomplishments, skills, and experience. Convey your writing style and thought processes.
• Access the  Cover Letter guide in Handshake  for a template on structure and examples. 
• Capture the attention of your reader and compel them to continue reading.

Cover Letters

Your cover letter is just as important as your resume . It’s more specific than a resume and highlights projects or efforts that align with the requirements of the position or program you’re applying for. A cover letter ties together your resume and the description posted by the organization.

You should submit a cover letter along with your resume (or CV ) for every position or program that you apply for, unless the internship/job posting specifically notes not to include one.

Page Format

Since your cover letter will accompany your resume, match the style and formatting: Use the same font type, font size, and document margins.

• Alignment: Left aligned after the header.
• Length: 1 page, maximum 3–4 paragraphs.
• Header: Include the same header that is on your resume .
• Date: Spell out the month and include the year.
• Addressing Your Letter: If possible, address your cover letter to a specific person. Usually, this is the hiring manager or the person who will supervise this position; try checking LinkedIn and the organization’s website. It also could be a recruiter or the contact listed in Handshake .
• Salutation or Greeting: If you are addressing a specific person, use their first and last name. If not, use something generic, such as “hiring manager,” “hiring committee,” or “selection committee.”
• Introduction and Interest (paragraph 1): Include what position/program you are applying for, what you know about the organization, and why you are interested.
• The Evidence (paragraph 2): Outline what you can do for the organization; make a case for why you are the candidate to hire.
• The Connection (paragraph 2–3): Make the connections between the desired qualifications listed in the posting and your experience/skills.
• The Closing (paragraph 3–4): Reiterate your interest, express gratitude, and note that you look forward to hearing from them. Also, provide contact information if it is not already in the header.
• Signature: Use “Sincerely,” followed by your full name on the next line.
• Cover letter sample 1 (pdf) , showing paragraph style
• Cover letter sample 2 (pdf) , showing bullet style
• Cover letter sample 3 (pdf) , showing preferred name and bullet style

Workshop: How to Write a Cover Letter

Learn how to write a cover letter for a job application that will catch the attention of employers! This video discusses cover letter formatting, how to tailor your cover letter to a job description, and tips for creating a compelling cover letter for jobs and internships. Master the perfect cover letter format today.

• Attend a cover letter presentation to get started. Check the calendar for upcoming sessions .
• Read more tips and advice on the blog .
• Bring a draft in for a cover letter review .

Resume & Cover Letter

Resume and Cover Letter Guide (PDF) A complete guide for Foster students on writing undergraduate resumes. Includes sample resumes and answers to common questions such as:

• Can I include information from High School?
• How should I describe the work I did for an organization?
• Do I have to put my GPA on my resume?
• And many more!

Resume Quick Guide

Resume Template (Word Doc) A document displaying possible formatting and order of a traditional business resume.

Model Cover Letter (PDF) This sample cover letter describes the contents of each paragraph and identifying the type of information to include.

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Cover Letters, Etc.

Throughout your job search you will communicate in writing with employers, recruiters and networking contacts, so your letters and emails are an important part of marketing yourself.

Cover letters

Composing a cover letter can feel daunting. Attack the letter-writing process step-by-step to make the effort more manageable.

Do you have to include a cover letter when applying for jobs? Generally, yes. Even if an employer does not explicitly request a cover letter, include one. There might be situations it isn’t is not needed, such as when handing out resumes at a career fair or when a colleague is personally referring your resume to a contact.

A cover letter offers an additional and different way to present your sales pitch. It reinforces your brand you portray in your resume. And since it’s personal and customized to a specific role and company, it more specifically shows how you think, write and present a business case than a resume can

Your primary purpose is to immediately inspire the reader to thoroughly review your resume. Present key information that compels the reader to contact you for an interview.The letter should ensure they do not miss the key highlights of your background for the specific role and company, and make the connection between their job opening and your resume. In other words, the cover letter creates the case for why your candidacy should be given serious consideration.

Because you are writing to a  employer for a specific opening, customize your letter to the job ad. Carefully review the ad to identify the key criteria that are sought and address them directly.

If there are a few key criteria that you do not meet exactly, consider whether you could substitute something you’ve done that demonstrates the basic underlying skill or which represents a very similar kind of experience.

The #1 secret to better letters

To make the best impression and to present a compelling message, be clear, to the point and well organized. No amount of fancy wording can overcome a poorly constructed message.

Craft a simple outline. Carefully review the list of points you want to include and eliminate redundancies. Reorganize remaining items, listing the most important points first. Revisit the items at the bottom of your list. You might find some weaker items don’t need to be included. Then and, only then, start writing!

By organizing your thoughts in this way, you’ll ensure you are:

• Responding to the employer’s top criteria
• Putting your best ideas first
• Keeping the letter tight and focused by eliminating repetition
• Creating a smoother, well-flowing message

Good letters follow a specific but simple structure that will make it easier for you effectively present your message and for the reader to follow and understand it.

The 3 basic parts of a cover letter

There are three key sections, each with its own purpose.

• Intro/opening: Its main purpose is to introduce you and what job you are applying for. It is brief but important.For maximum impact, start building your case immediately. It can be helpful to share how you learned about their opening. This can be particularly meaningful if someone personally referred you. And don’t be afraid to mention specific people. This is not superficial name-dropping; it helps make the connection between you and the organization and puts your application and interest into context.Use your relevant skills and experience as the backdrop for your interest. So, instead of  “I’m writing to you today to express my interest in the Senior Financial Analyst” role, you might write, “As an MBA with solid experience in using analytical, research, and forecasting skills in the investment industry, I am writing to express my strong interest in the Senior Financial Analyst role.”
• Body: Present your case for being seriously considered for the role. Address the employer’s needs directly. Analyze the job ad to identify key issues and address them.While you can include a few additional points that you feel are beneficial, avoid generalities that bear little or no relation to their needs.Review your resume carefully to determine which aspects of your background you can call out to make your case. Do not recreate your resume in the letter. Instead, call out its highlights so the reader doesn’t miss them and makes connection between your strengths and their needs.
• Closing: Your closing words play a critical role. Thank the reader for their consideration and reinforce the main points of your letter. You could add a few items that round out your value add, such as skills, credentials or personality traits.End with an action item, stating what you will do next to follow up or what you hope the reader will do next. You might write that you will call to see if there is mutual interest in an interview or to offer additional information. If you don’t have the contact information needed to follow up by phone, mention your strong interest in an interview.

Letter formatting

Word/PDF formatted letter or Email?

Most communications today are electronic, but you still might want to create cover letters and other correspondence in Word or PDF formats and use them as attachments to an email or to upload into a website. The advantage of these formats is the letter will look more attractive, traditional and professional, particularly if the recipient prints the letter at some point.

• Copy the stylized name and contact information from your resume to create a matching letterhead for your correpsondecne
• Include the date of the letter a few lines under your letterhead.
• Use triple space between the date and the recipient’s address. Include the person’s name, title, company and mailing address.
• Address your letter to the appropriate person if possible. If not, alternative greetings might be: Dear HR Manager, Dear Hiring Manager, Dear Sir/Madam. Since all of these generic greetings are a bit impersonal, however, some people eliminate the greeting and start with the first paragraph.
• Address the recipient by their last name: Dear Mr. Chang, Dear Ms. Walker, Dear Dr. Gomez. If you are already well-acquainted with them, you can use their first name. If the person’s gender is not obvious, do research online or by calling the company to inquire. If you can’t locate that, you can use Dear Pat Miller or Dear Mr./Ms. Miller.
• Traditional business-letter format uses a colon at the end of the greeting. Only personal letters use a comma.
• Side margins should be equal and the letter should be roughly centered from top to bottom.
• Single space paragraphs; double space between them.
• Double space between the last paragraph and your closing, such as Sincerely or Best regards.
• Leave space for your signature if sending a hard copy or using an electronic signature. Use triple space between the closing and your name. For electronic versions of your letter that cannot be signed, use double space.

Job-search emails are acceptable in many situations. To determine which format to use, consider the recipient’s industry, function and style. For example, a professional at a tech company might expect virtually all written communications to be conveyed by email.

• It’s fine to use traditional email formatting. You don’t need to insert a letterhead into the email itself.
• You don’t need the inside or recipient’s address since the most relevant contact information will be in the email’s header.
• Keep the subject line concise but descriptive: “Applicant for Marketing Manager Opening” or “Referred by Sanjay Gupta for Director of Supply Chain.”
• Use simple formatting to ensure the message is easily readable regardless of the device the recipient is using. In other words, avoid two-columned or other complex formats for the letter.
• Though compelling information will likely keep the recipient reading, keep email correspondence concise to avoid the need for lots of scrolling.
• Since there is no letterhead, include additional contact information under your name at the end of the letter. This might include your full address and a link to your LinkedIn profile; be sure to include your phone number.

Better letter writing

As with your resume, the quality of your job-search correspondence can make or break your search. All correspondence, whether networking emails or cover, thank you, and accept/decline letters should:

• Be personalized and unique to each individual or company. Never send form or generic letters or emails. If you don’t show enough interest to take the time to write a customized letter, why should the reader be interested in you?
• Clearly and quickly state your message. Take time to organize, conceptualize and organize your message.
• Be concise and to the point. Use descriptive words that enrich your message, but eliminate those that don’t add value Keep the letter to one page.
• Convey your professionalism and strong communication skills. Avoid informal styles and slang. Even a fairly informal email to a well-known contact could forwarded to someone in a position to hire you.
• Present your message in your voice to convey your unique message regarding this unique opportunity. Don’t rely  on sample letters; use them only to stimulate your thinking.
• Include ext steps you will take or that you are requesting or suggesting the reader take
• Be addressed to a specific person, ideally, not a title or department. If the name is not readily available, do research via the Internet, LinkedIn, personal networking or by calling the company.
• Be error free in terms of grammar, spelling and punctuation. Don’t let a typo undermine all of your other good efforts!
• Separate “what” you want to say from “how” you will say it. Thinking that your writing needs to be flawless from the start is a sure way to get writer’s block. First, get the message right. Later, polish it through careful editing.
• Write like you speak – be yourself! Often, the clearest, quickest way to get your message across is to use everyday language. That doesn’t mean that you can’t use sophisticated concept, but avoid trying to sound so impressive that your writing becomes convoluted and stiff.
• Stick to one main idea per paragraph. When you switch ideas, start a new paragraph.
• Introduce the central thought of the paragraph in the opening sentence. This grabs the reader’s attention, engaging them in that central message.
• Use transitions to connect your thoughts: in addition, also, however, for example.
• Use jargon judiciously. Use enough jargon to sound like an insider but not enough that other readers, like HR staff, will be left in the dark.
• Don’t expect to be able to write strong letters right out of the gate. Editing your letter is a critical step in ensuring your message is market-ready.
• Simplify your message to amplify it! Remember, the cover letter is not trying to get you a job. It just needs to whet the reader’s interest in thoroughly reading your resume.
• Read it aloud or ask someone to read it to you. Your ear will catch awkward phrasing, repetitive wording and grammar errors that your eye might not catch. If you run out of breath, the sentence is too long. Long sentences can confuse the reader at worst, and lose their interest.
• Proofread carefully – errors are simply not an option. Reading is not proofreading. Proofreading is slow and meticulous. And realize that you can’t delegate perfection – you need to proofread it yourself, too.

Thank-you letters

Sending a thank-you letter, note or email to follow up after an interview is a best practice. Many people neglect to provide this professional courtesy, so you will often stand out in a positive way and might tip the scales in your favor.

The purpose of the thank-you note is, of course, to thank the people who interviewed you for their time and consideration of your candidacy. But it also provides a great vehicle to reiterate key points: how interested you are in the job and how well-qualified you are for it.

It doesn’t take a lot of time or space to get those two points across. You could write them in one or two sentences. Of course, your thank-you note will not be quite that brief, but typically it will be concise and much shorter than your cover letter.

• Personalize your message by thanking them for something specific: perhaps a discussion of the company’s future goals, a review of departmental priorities, a tour of the facility or a copy of the company’s annual reports. This will add an element of authenticity to your note.
• If you had particularly positive impressions of the company, team and responsibilities, mention them to convey your sincere enthusiasm.
• Reiterate your key selling points and their fit to the position and company.
• If you neglected to mention something important in the interview or feel you could presented information more strongly, you you could briefly mention it it in the letter.
• Include follow-up information requested by the interviewer.

Responding to offers

After receiving a job offer and verbally accepting,  request the offer in writing. This might include a form for you to sign and return to indicate your acceptance. Writing a letter of acceptance is a best practice, too.

Use the same care that went into your cover letter – a professional, polished and positive acceptance letter reinforce in the employer’s mind that they made the right choice!  You will want to:

• Clearly indicate acceptance.
• Restate terms of employment: title, salary and start date.
• Convey eagerness and excitement in your own voice.
• Mention next interaction, if appropriate.
• Avoid overly detailed logistical questions, which are better handled in follow-up conversations and emails.

The vast majority of people don’t think to send a letter when they  turn down an offer. While it is not required,  not sending one could leave a very unflattering impression with the company, which could be important in the future. When writing letters to decline an offer:

• Express appreciation for the offer.
• Offer any sincere positive feedback about the opportunity.
• Provide a very brief, to-the-point rationale. Don’t get into too much detail. You won’t want to risk disparaging their offer, job or company, nor open the door to a debate. Keep the tone positive and professional; avoid sounding overly apologetic. This is a business deal you have decided not to pursue, not a personal rejection.

Even rarer than a letter declining a job offer is a letter thanking the employer after you are turned down for the job. But writing a brief note thanking the employer for their time and for letting you know the outcome will often appear so professional and gracious that it will stand out in a powerful way.

Thank them for the time and effort they invested in interviewing you. You can, of course, mention your disappointment. You can even mention that your disappointment is based on your sense that there truly was a great fit between your credentials and their job. But do not question or debate their decision.

A nice touch is to wish them the best with their selection while simultaneously mentioning your continued interest in their organization and your hope that they keep you in mind should suitable future openings arise. And they probably will!

Related Resources

• Cover Letters 2.0 (Video)
• Cover Letter Samples (PDF)

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School Business Manager Cover Letter Examples

Use these School Business Manager cover letter examples to help you write a powerful cover letter that will separate you from the competition.

School business managers are responsible for the financial and administrative operations of their school district. They work with the superintendent and other school administrators to ensure the district runs smoothly.

Hiring managers look for candidates with a strong business background and experience in financial and administrative roles. Use these examples to write a cover letter that shows you’re the perfect candidate for the job.

Formal/Professional Writing Style Example

With a strong background in finance and administration, I believe I am well suited for the role of School Business Manager at your esteemed institution.

Throughout my career, I have developed knowledge and experience in various aspects of financial management, budgeting, compliance, and operations. My past experiences as an Assistant Controller and Office Manager have honed my ability to collaborate with various departments, streamline processes, and establish effective communication channels to maximize team efficiency.

In my most recent role, I successfully managed a budget of more than $5 million and implemented cost-saving initiatives, resulting in a 10% reduction in annual expenditures. I also instituted new policies and procedures to ensure regulatory compliance and enhanced the overall functioning of the financial department.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a focus on Finance, as well as a Master’s degree in Accounting. My educational background and professional experience have equipped me with the necessary skills to excel as a School Business Manager, and I am confident in my ability to make a positive impact on your organization.

In addition to my technical knowledge, I possess strong leadership and teamwork abilities, which have enabled me to foster positive relationships and motivate colleagues to achieve shared goals. I pride myself on my ability to manage change effectively and adapt to new situations, ensuring that the organizations I have worked for continue to grow and improve.

I am excited about the opportunity to join your prestigious institution and contribute to its ongoing success. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.

[Your Name]

Entry-Level Writing Style Example

As a recent graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of XYZ, I am eager to apply my education and dedication to contribute to the success of [School Name]. I am excited by the opportunity to serve in a capacity that supports the educational community and helps create an environment where students can thrive.

During my studies, I specialized in financial management and operations, gaining a strong foundation in budgeting, forecasting, and cost control, as well as efficient resource allocation. In addition, I have developed excellent organizational and communication skills, which will enable me to effectively manage daily operations and coordinate with various departments within the school.

While having no direct experience in the education sector, my strong analytical abilities, passion for education, and team player mindset make me a suitable candidate for the role of School Business Manager. I am confident in my ability to quickly adapt to the unique environment of your school and work collaboratively with teachers, staff, and other stakeholders to support the school’s mission.

I am excited about the prospect of bringing my strong work ethic, innovation, and enthusiasm to [School Name] in the role of School Business Manager. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further and learn more about the expectations for this position.

Thank you for considering my application. I am confident that my skills and dedication will make me an asset to your team.

Networking/Referral Writing Style Example

My application comes highly recommended by Mr. John Smith, the Principal at XYZ School, with whom I have had the pleasure of working closely during my tenure as Assistant Business Manager at ABC School. Mr. Smith’s endorsement not only highlights our strong professional relationship, but also underscores my ability to excel in financial management and operations within an educational setting.

Over the past five years, I have successfully managed budgets, monitored expenses, and supported the implementation of cost-saving measures that have directly contributed to the growth and financial stability of ABC School. Additionally, my strong communication and problem-solving skills have allowed me to successfully collaborate with staff, parents, and external partners.

Moreover, my experience in overseeing facility maintenance and adhering to compliance regulations ensures a safe and productive learning environment for every student. My dedication and commitment to educational excellence make me a perfect fit for the role of School Business Manager at your esteemed organization.

I am thrilled at the prospect of joining your team and contributing my skills and experience to support the continued success of your school. I would be grateful to meet with you to further discuss my qualifications and how they align with your needs. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you further.

Enthusiastic/Passionate Writing Style Example

As a dedicated and experienced professional in the education sector, I am confident that my strong background in financial management, resource allocation, and strategic planning will make me a valuable addition to your institution.

Throughout my career, I have passionately strived to create a positive environment for both staff and students, while maintaining a high level of fiscal responsibility. My extensive experience in managing budgets, optimizing resources, and overseeing facility operations has equipped me with the skills needed to ensure the smooth operation of your school. I have consistently demonstrated my commitment to fostering a thriving educational community through my strong attention to detail and innovative problem-solving abilities.

At the core of my passion for this role, I firmly believe that a well-managed school is essential for cultivating a nourishing environment which fosters academic growth and achievement. As your School Business Manager, I promise to work tirelessly to ensure that each student has access to a stable and supportive learning environment, as well as to empower faculty members with the resources they need to succeed.

Moreover, I am familiar with the exceptional reputation your school holds, and I am eager to join your team to help further enhance the quality of education your institution provides. I know that my steadfast dedication to academic excellence and commitment to detail will make me an excellent fit for this role.

Please accept this letter and the accompanying resume as my sincere interest in the School Business Manager position. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your institution’s ongoing success and growth, and I look forward to the possibility of discussing my qualifications further.

Thank you for considering my application, and I eagerly await your positive response.

Problem-Solving Writing Style Example

I have analyzed the current challenges faced by your educational institution, such as efficient budget management, enhancement of internal controls, and implementation of cost-effective initiatives. My successful track record, expertise, and passion for finding creative solutions make me the perfect fit for the role.

My extensive experience as a Business Administrator in the education sector has provided me with the necessary skills to address budgetary constraints and increase financial efficiency. I am adept at negotiating contracts with vendors, managing budgets, and streamlining procurement processes, which can contribute towards reducing operational costs for your school. By employing effective cost control measures, I have saved over $50,000 in annual expenses at my current workplace.

In addition to budget management, I recognize the importance of establishing strong internal controls for the smooth functioning of a school. During my previous tenure, I have designed and implemented various control systems that have improved financial transparency and reduced the risk of fraud. My proactive approach in addressing financial discrepancies and willingness to collaborate with stakeholders will ensure your school adheres to foolproof financial management practices.

Furthermore, I have a successful history of identifying and executing cost-effective initiatives that promote sustainable growth. I have introduced energy-efficient practices at my current workplace, resulting in a 20% reduction in energy consumption and utility expenses. My commitment to innovation and long-term solutions will support your school in achieving financial stability and sustainability.

I am excited about the opportunity to apply my skills and experiences in solving the challenges faced by your institution. I am confident in my ability to bring value to the School Business Manager role and have a significant impact on your school’s financial health. Thank you for considering my application.

Storytelling/Narrative Writing Style Example

As I sat in the bustling school cafeteria, savoring my homemade lunch, I couldn’t help but reminisce about my journey to this very moment. The aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the air reminded me of the time when I had first taken up the challenge of managing finances at the small bakery I owned. Over time, I transformed it into a thriving business by streamlining operations, cutting costs, and building a loyal customer base. I realized then that my passion for efficient management could be applied to a broader spectrum, and thus began my career as a business manager.

My experience in managing budgets and implementing effective financial strategies has been instrumental in my professional growth. I have spent the past five years as a Business Manager at a local school, where I have successfully managed the school’s finances, improved internal processes, and developed strong relationships with staff, students, and parents. In addition, I have collaborated with the school’s leadership team to create and implement innovative programs that have significantly boosted academic performance and student engagement.

As a proud parent of two school-going children, I am deeply committed to the cause of education and believe in the power it holds in shaping the future of our society. My dedication to creating a nurturing and empowering environment for students to thrive in drives my passion for this role. I am confident that my unique blend of professional expertise and personal values would make me an ideal candidate for the School Business Manager position at your esteemed institution.

I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences align with your school’s goals and contribute to its continued success. Thank you for considering my application.

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