TABLE OF CONTENTS
Free Leader Cover Letter Example
Copy this free cover letter template, fill in the blanks and use the instructions on each section to write an effective cover letter.
Your name
[City, State ZIP Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Today’s Date]
[Hiring Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[OPTIONAL: Department Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
Dear [Mr./Ms. Hiring Manager or Recruiter last name],
This section is your opener and should contain your ‘purpose’ or interest statement that explains why you would be interested in the job posting or the company. Make sure to reference keywords and statements from the job description.
This section is your opener and should contain your ‘purpose’ or interest statement that explains why you would be interested in the job posting or the company. Make sure to reference keywords and statements from the job description.
The body paragraph (s): should contain skills and qualifications related to the job, i.e., provide a narrative example of how your job-related skills were obtained/honed. Your goal here is to match the skills to the employer’s needs. Justify how your career experiences could fit into the position and the organization.
The end paragraph: is the closer that would signify a ‘call to action’ by reiterating an essential qualification for the position you possess and an appreciation for the employer’s consideration.
Closing statement: Thank the employer/recruiter for their time.
Sincerely,
— Your Full Name
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How to Write a Leader Cover Letter
Writing a cover letter doesn't have to be a hassle if you follow our step-by-step guide. The following infographic will show you the essential sections of a professional cover letter.
Now that you know what a cover letter should look like, let's go into further detail on how to tailor your cover letter to your leader role.
STEP 1
Format your cover letter’s header correctly
Every leader cover letter should include a header that follows the standard business letter format. Include the date, the recipient's name and info and a formal greeting.
Strong cover letter header example:
April 10, 2025
Mr. David Foster
Senior Hiring Manager
Innovative Tech Solutions
1234 Innovation Drive
New York, NY 10018
Dear Mr. Foster,
Weak cover letter header example:
October 32, 2023
To whom it may concern,
Mr. Jonhathan Taste
Senior Manager
Great Big Corporation Inc.
1234 Elm St.
Somecity, SF 98765
Jacqueline Lemon
20345 Pine Blvd
Anyville, UF 12345
lemonsjack234@amile.com
(987) 654-3210
PRO TIP
A big cover letter red flag is to greet the letter's recipient with a generic “To Whom It May Concern.“ Instead, personalize the greeting by stating your recipient's name or address a cover letter without a name professionally with “Dear Hiring Manager.“
STEP 2
Introduce yourself in the opening paragraph
Introduce yourself to employers in the first paragraph of your cover letter by sharing characteristics like your current profession, key skills or any other relevant qualification. Aim to sound authentic when stating your interest in the leader position.
Strong opening paragraph example:
As a project manager with over 8 years of experience in the tech industry, I am eager to apply for the team leader position at Innovative Solutions. My background in team coordination and strategic planning has equipped me for this role, evidenced by successfully leading a cross-functional team and increasing project delivery speed by 30% last year. I am motivated by the opportunity to drive results and mentor emerging leaders.
Weak opening paragraph example:
Hey there, I'm eager to join Generic Inc. as a leader. I've done stuff in leadership roles before and I'm ready to bring my energy to your team. Let's chat more about it soon!
PRO TIP
It's a huge bonus to have a recommendation for the role from a current employee. Our referral cover letter opening paragraph article provides different examples of approaching this topic.
STEP 3
Share relevant achievements in the body paragraph
Your cover letter's body paragraph will comprise the bulk of your document and should focus on quantifiable achievements and additional key skills. You can also get more personal with this section and show employers your passion for the job or career goals.
Strong body paragraph example:
In my previous leadership role, I spearheaded a project that streamlined operations, reducing costs by 25% and increasing team efficiency by 30%. This achievement underscores my strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities. By fostering collaboration and leveraging data-driven insights, I guided my team through challenges, ensuring goals were met ahead of schedule. I am eager to apply my creativity and leadership skills to drive innovation and success in your organization.
Weak body paragraph example:
I am writing to apply for the manager role. I believe I need this job to grow. I've led tasks in my past job, not sure if that counts as leadership. I hope to gain more leadership experience here. I don't have specific skills but believe I could fit. I think I could contribute a lot someday.
STEP 4
Finish by encouraging next steps
In the cover letter's closing paragraph, you seal the deal with potential employers by summarizing your best qualifications and expressing your genuine interest in a job interview. Include a sign-off and your name; you've completed a professional cover letter!
Strong closing paragraph:
As a seasoned team leader with a proven track record in driving project success through strategic guidance and fostering collaboration, I am excited to offer my expertise to Innovate Solutions. My ability to consistently deliver results aligns perfectly with your goals. I appreciate your consideration and would welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview.
Thank you for your attention.
Sincerely,
Michael Carson
Weak closing paragraph:
I think I might be able to contribute positively as a leader in your team, though I'm not sure if my skills are fully up to par. Hopefully, my potential can align with your needs, and maybe you'll consider my application. Thank you for your time and attention.
Sincerely,
Emily Taylor
Now you've completed your cover letter! Writing a cover letter is easier when you take it section by section. To simplify the process, we've built a great Cover Letter Builder that will generate a custom letter in minutes. Check it out!
Top Skills to Include in Cover Letter Examples for Leader
Use this list of in-demand skills for a leader when writing your cover letter. Include a few of these soft skills and hard skills to show employers you have the interpersonal abilities and knowledge to thrive in the role.
- Strategic Vision
- Emotional Intelligence
- Data Literacy
- Conflict Resolution
- Financial Acumen
- Mentorship Ability
- Innovative Thinking
- Cross-Cultural Agility
- Ethical Judgement
- Influence and Negotiation
- Change Management
- Stakeholder Engagement
Find more personalized content suggestions like these in our Cover Letter Builder. When you enter your job title and pick a unique writing style, the Builder will generate a custom cover letter in minutes!
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