15 Short Cover Letter Samples [Examples + Templates]

A short cover letter that’s customized for a specific position makes a great first impression, even when the hiring manager has limited time.

And for job postings that you're genuinely interested in, taking the time to craft a thoughtful cover letter is well worth it. It allows your unique voice and enthusiasm for the work to shine through. 

The article below explains how to create a brief cover letter that gets results and showcases some short cover letter samples you can use as inspiration throughout your job search.

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Why write a short cover letter?

Writing a short cover letter doesn't mean you're providing less value. It means you're placing a premium on clear and impactful communication, which, even by itself, underscores your professionalism. 

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In fact, there are a lot of reasons why it might be beneficial to stick with a short, concise cover letter.

1. Efficiency: Short cover letters save time for both you and the hiring manager, allowing for quicker evaluations.
2. Relevance: A concise letter ensures that every word you write directly contributes to showcasing your qualifications and aligns with the job's requirements.
3. Engagement: A brief, compelling letter is more likely to capture the attention of busy hiring professionals, increasing the chances of them reading it.
4. Clarity: Shorter letters are inherently clearer and easier to follow, making it more straightforward for the reader to learn your key strengths and motivations.
5. Respect for time: It demonstrates respect for the time constraints of hiring managers, conveying your understanding of busy schedules and time management. 

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Short cover letter outline

In a concise cover letter, brevity is a strength. So, what parts of a cover letter should an abbreviated yet impactful document include?

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I. Introduction

• Briefly introduce yourself.
• Mention the specific job position you're applying for.

II. Why you're a fit

• Highlight one to two key qualifications or experiences that align with the job requirement (try incorporating relevant keywords from the job description).

III. Passion and enthusiasm

• Express genuine interest in the role and the company. (This is a great place to weave in a specific company value or mission.)

IV. Value proposition

• Quickly mention what you can bring to the organization regarding skills, achievements, or potential contributions using keywords from the job description.

V. Closing statement

• Politely thank the reader for their time.
• Include a call to action, like "Please contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address] to discuss my application or schedule an interview.

VI. Signature

• Sign off with a professional closing, e.g., "Sincerely,"
• Include your name, email, and phone number.

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3 key tips for writing a short cover letter

Now that you know what to include, here are some tips for writing a short cover letter.

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Customize your cover letter for each job

Tailoring your cover letter to a specific job shows you have the experience, skills, and qualifications the company is looking for. Include keywords and focus on relevant experience to align closely with the job description, ensuring your application stands out as highly relevant and targeted.

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Use bullet points to highlight your qualifications and achievements

If you find yourself staring at a wall of text, use bullet points to make your cover letter easier to skim. List key achievements (with results!) and qualifications directly related to the job.

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Be clear and concise

Keep your cover letter brief and to the point. Avoid filler words and overly complex sentences. A clear, straightforward approach helps convey your message so key details stand out.

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How to write a short cover letter

Different than writing a general cover letter (which tends to be significantly longer), writing a simple cover letter requires some steps that focus more on language and precision. 

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Step 1: Research and prepare

Thoroughly research the company and job role to understand their specific needs and culture. 

These details will help you make your cover letter more personalized, which can set you apart from other candidates. If you can find the hiring manager’s name, address them directly and use it in your cover letter greeting. This shows potential employers that you care about the detail

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Step 2: Identify key qualifications

Select one or two of your qualifications or experiences directly matching the job requirements. (Use keywords from the job description to align your skills.) 

Explain these briefly but with enough detail to illustrate your competence and how these experiences make you a great fit for the role.

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Step 3: Prioritize recent relevance

Highlight only your recent career experiences relevant to the job. Avoid detailing every previous role, focusing only on what's applicable.

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Step 4: Optimize Content Sections

Identify the most critical sections (e.g., qualifications, value proposition). Then, allocate space judiciously, emphasizing only the most impactful content that aligns with the role.

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Step 5: Condense and simplify

Review your content for long phrases and unnecessary words. Aim to convey more with fewer words while maintaining clarity. (And do your best to use contractions whenever it makes sense. I.e., ”I’ll” rather than “I will” or “I’m” rather than “I'm.”)

For example:

Original: "I believe that I have the Python skills and 7 years of data experience that are relevant to this position."
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Improved: "I have the relevant Python skills and 7 years of data experience for this position."

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Pro Tip: If you're looking to automate some of this process, let's say by writing your cover letter with ChatGPT or another AI program, copy and paste your content into the software, and prompt it to highlight any unnecessary filler words and phrases.

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Step 6: Improve clarity and readability

Review your content for clarity and readability. Make sure your message is easy to understand and flows smoothly—avoiding ambiguity.

For example: 

Original: "I have experience working with diverse teams, which has given me valuable skills."
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Improved: "I've successfully collaborated with diverse teams on five major projects, resulting in a 20% increase in project efficiency."
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Best: "I collaborated with diverse teams on five projects, increasing project efficiency by 20%."

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Step 7: Review, refine, and proofread

Carefully review your short cover letter for conciseness and relevance. Eliminate any additional words. Remember, every word should serve a purpose. 

Then, proofread it (and then proofread it again!). You can also opt to use a tool like Teal's AI Resume Builder with features like a cover letter builder with spell check, which can help you write, edit, and identify typos or grammar issues.

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Use Teal's AI Cover Letter Generator

With Teal, you can generate a tailored, impactful cover letter in seconds. Just match your existing resume with a specific job description, and the AI Cover Letter Generator will write a personalized letter based on your career information and position details.

It can be a game-changer for your job application process. Try it yourself and see.

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Remember, your cover letter is your chance to make a first impression. Take the time to make it count. With the right approach, the use of a cover letter checklist, and a little help from AI, you can create a cover letter that stands out for all the right reasons.

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15 great short cover letter examples

Every person has different experiences and job stages, which means no two cover letters are built the same.

A short cover letter for an internship or for someone with no experience will be much different than a cover letter for someone at the senior or executive level.

Below are some short cover letter samples for a variety or roles and career stages. Use one of these short cover letter examples as inspiration for how to write a short cover letter and customize it based on your own experience.

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Short cover letter samples

Short cover letter sample - sales

Pro Tip: See more short cover letter examples with these sales cover letter templates.

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Short cover letter sample - customer service

Pro Tip: Need more more short cover letter examples? Check out these customer service cover letter templates.

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Short cover letter sample - creative jobs

Pro Tip: See more examples in these creative role cover letter samples.

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Short cover letter sample - hospitality

Pro Tip: Need more short cover letter examples? Use these hospitality cover letter templates as a guide.

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Short cover letter sample - administration

Pro Tip: See more short cover letter examples in these administration cover letter templates.

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Short cover letter sample - human resources

Pro Tip: See more short cover letter examples in these human resources cover letter templates.

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Short cover letter templates

Short cover letter sample - any job

Dear [Hiring Manager],

I'm excited to submit my application for the [Position] role at [Company Name]. As an experienced [title] with [X] years of experience, I'm confident that I have the [1-2 specific skills and qualifications from the job description] necessary to excel in this position.

With [X] years of experience in [Industry], I've gained valuable transferable skills such as [Relevant Skills] that I believe will be an asset to your team. I'm confident that I can quickly adapt to this new role's demands and significantly contribute to your organization.

Given my experience,  I'm eager to bring my expertise to your team at [Company Name]. Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.

Warm Regards,

[Your Name]

Pro Tip: See more short cover letter examples, and learn how to write a general cover letter with a comprehensive guide and templates.

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Short cover letter sample - entry-level position

Dear [Hiring Manager], 

I'm excited to apply for the [Position] at [Company Name]. 

As a recent graduate with a degree in [Degree Field], I focused my studies on [Study Areas]. I also gained hands-on experience at [Type of Business], where I was responsible for [List 2-3 Responsibilities].

I'm confident my academic and work experience make me a strong candidate for this position. 

I've demonstrated my skills in [Relevant Skills] with a [Quantifiable Achievement] in my last role. I'm also committed to delivering [Deliverable From Job Description].

I'm excited about the opportunity to work at [Company Name] and contribute to your team. Thank you for considering my application. 

Sincerely, [Name]

‍Pro Tip: Check out another short cover letter example in this entry-level cover letter template.

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Short cover letter sample - manager position

Dear [Hiring Manager],

I'm excited to submit my application for the [Position] role at [Company Name]. As an experienced [title] with [X] years of experience, I'm confident that I have the [1-2 specific skills and qualifications from the job description] necessary to excel in this position.

With [X] years of experience in [Industry], I've gained valuable transferable skills such as [Relevant Skills] that I believe will be an asset to your team. I'm confident that I can quickly adapt to this new role's demands and significantly contribute to your organization.

Given my experience,  I'm eager to bring my expertise to your team at [Company Name]. Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.

Warm Regards,

[Your Name]

Pro Tip: Want more short cover letter examples? Check out these project manager cover letter templates.

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Short cover letter sample - leadership position

Dear [Hiring Manager], 

With [X]+ years of experience in the [Industry], including [X] years in [Specialization], I was thrilled to see an opening for the [Job Title] at [Company Name].  

In my previous roles, I've consistently increased profits by [Percentage]% YoY through [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and [Skill 3]. I'm passionate about leveraging [Skill 4] to inform decision-making and identify opportunities for growth—evidenced by my [Strategy] for a flagship product line that increased market share by [Percentage]%. 

As a senior-level candidate, I'm eager to bring my leadership skills and expertise to a dynamic and innovative team. I'm committed to fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous learning, with an [Percentage]% employee retention rate, and I'm excited about the opportunity to contribute to growth and success at [Company Name]. 

Thank you for considering my application. Please reach out to me at [Contact Information] to discuss my qualifications further. 

Sincerely, 
[Name]

Pro Tip: Want to more leadership-level short cover letter examples? Check out these director cover letter templates.

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Short cover letter sample - internships

Dear [Hiring Manager], 

I'm writing to express my interest in the [Internship Position] at [Organization Name]. 

As a college student majoring in [Major], I've developed a keen interest in [Field of Interest], and I'm excited about the prospect of contributing to [Brief Description of Organization's Mission]. 

In my [X]-hour practicum in my school's [Department Name], I [Achievement With Impact or Result]. I also [Achievement With Impact or Result].

My practical skills in [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and [Skill 3] make me an excellent candidate for this internship. I'm passionate about making a positive impact in the world, and I believe that [Organization Name] is the perfect place for me to start. 

I'm eager to learn from your team and contribute my skills to [Specific Type of Efforts]. 

Thank you for considering my application. Please reach out to me at [Contact Information] if you'd like to discuss my qualifications further.

Sincerely, 
[Name]

Pro Tip: See more examples and learn how to write a short cover letter for an internship.

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Short cover letter sample - gaps in employment

Dear [Hiring Manager],

I'm excited to submit my application for the [Position] role at [Company Name]. As an experienced [title] with [X] years of experience, I'm confident that I have the [1-2 specific skills and qualifications from the job description] necessary to excel in this position.

During a recent break in employment, I took the opportunity to focus on personal development and enhancing my skills through [titles of relevant certifications, education, or training]. I'm confident that these experiences have improved my expertise in [1-2 specific keywords from the job description]. 

I'm eager to bring my passion and expertise to your team at [Company Name]. I'm committed to contributing my best work and collaborating with others to [specific outcome from the job description]. Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.

Warm Regards,
[Your Name]

‍Pro Tip: See more short cover letter examples and learn how to explain gaps in your resume clearly and concisely.

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Short cover letter sample - career transition

Dear [Hiring Manager],
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I’m excited to submit my application for the [Position] role at [Company Name]. As someone with a diverse background in [Previous industry/Field], I'm eager to pivot my career toward [New Industry/Field], and I believe that this position is the perfect opportunity to do so.
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Through my [Number of Years] of experience in [Previous Industry/Field], I've gained valuable transferable skills such as [Relevant Skills] that I believe will be an asset to your team. I'm confident that I can quickly adapt to the demands of this new role and make a significant contribution to your organization.
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I'm excited about the prospect of joining a company that values innovation and growth, and I'm eager to bring my unique perspective and skill set to your team. Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.
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Sincerely,
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[Your Name]

Pro Tip: Need to write short cover letter for a career pivot? Check out "How to Write a Career Change Cover Letter."

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Short cover letter sample - internal position

Dear [Hiring Manager],

I'm writing to express my interest in the [Position] recently posted in our internal job board. 

Having worked at [Company Name] for [X] years in the [Current Department], I have a thorough understanding of our company's operations and goals.

During my time in [Current Department], I have [1-2 Major Accomplishments], which have directly contributed to [Impact and Results]. My familiarity with our internal systems, along with my achievements in [Specific Area], align perfectly with the requirements and responsibilities of the [Position].

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my unique expertise to the [New Department/Position], where I aim to further contribute to our company's success. I'm enthusiastic about the challenges of this new role and look forward to discussing this exciting opportunity with you.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to your feedback and hope to discuss my application in more detail.

Warm regards,
[Name] 
[Department]

Pro Tip: When applying for an internal position, showcase your progress and promotions on your resume to align what you've already done for the company with the needs of your next role.

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Short cover letter sample - informal

Hi [Hiring Manager],

I hope this message finds you well! 

I'm writing to throw my hat in the ring for the [Position] role at [Company Name]. 

I've been following your team's work for a while now, and I'm really impressed by [something specific about the company or team].

A bit about me—I've spent the last [X] years working in [Industry/Field], where I've honed my skills in [Relevant Skill 1] and [Relevant Skill 2] to [Results and Impact]. I'm eager to bring that same energy and initiative to your team.

I love the idea of contributing to [Company Goal or Project], and I think my background in [Industry/Field] would be a great fit. Plus, I'm ready to hit the ground running and make a positive impact right from the start.

Thanks for considering my application. I'd love the chance to chat more about how I can contribute to your team. 

Best,
[Your Name]

Pro Tip: While keeping your cover letter informal can showcase your personality, it's still important to balance friendliness with professionalism to make a great first impression. For more examples of how to strike the right tone, check out this collection of cover letter examples. 

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Need a short cover letter? Teal can help!

Crafting a memorable cover letter boils down to personalization, relevance, and clear, engaging writing. And while this might seem like a tall order, it’s much easier with the right tools in your belt, like Teal. 

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With Teal, you can leverage AI technology to create a short, standout cover letter tailored just for you—and the specific jobs you’re applying to. 

Ready to take the next step in your career? Start building strong, memorable cover letters to land your next interview. build strong cover letters that land your dream job.