TABLE OF CONTENTS
Free Waitress Cover Letter Example
This cover letter template includes clear instructions on what to include in each section. Download it for free and personalize it by filling in the blanks with your details.
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 Waitress Cover Letter
The easiest way to write a cover letter is to take it section by section. Every professional cover letter should include the sections highlighted in the cover letter sample.
In the following writing guide, you'll find more details on how to tailor your letter to your target waitress role.
STEP 1
Format your cover letter’s header correctly
Every cover letter must have a properly formatted header. In this first section, you'll share the letter's date, details about the recipient and a formal greeting.
Strong cover letter header example:
April 10, 2025
Mr. John Reynolds
Restaurant Manager
The Gourmet Bistro
1234 Culinary Lane
Seattle, WA 98102
Dear Mr. Reynolds,
Weak cover letter header example:
Telly Freman
432 Wrong Street
Los Angles, CA 90210
(555) 123-4567
tellyfreeman@email,com
To whom it may apply,
Starbuks Restraunt,
Attn: Ms. Jeniffer Thomson
890 Oasis Blvd
Somecity, NY 10101
Date: 06/15/2023
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
Quickly capture hiring managers' attention with an engaging first paragraph highlighting your most impressive qualifications. List skills and achievements that show you meet the key job requirements to make a solid first impression. Be professional with your words, but don't be afraid to sound genuine in your interest in the role.
Strong opening paragraph example:
As a barista with over two years of experience in a fast-paced coffee shop environment, I am excited to apply for the waitress position at Riverside Bistro. I am eager to bring my customer service skills and passion for food to your esteemed restaurant. My dedication to excellence is evidenced by my recent achievement of increasing customer satisfaction ratings by 20% through personalized service enhancements.
Weak opening paragraph example:
Hello Hiring Manager at Sweet Treats Café, I'm reaching out to you about the waitress opening. I've worked at a few places, learned some stuff, and really enjoy helping people.
PRO TIP
If a current employee has referred you for this position, mention this in the opening paragraph. Our referral cover letter openings article shows you how to do this.
STEP 3
Share relevant achievements in the body paragraph
Use your waitress cover letter's body paragraph to differentiate yourself from other job seekers by expanding on a specific achievement, providing insight into your career goals, or sharing a little bit about your work ethic and values.
Strong body paragraph example:
Demonstrating strong communication and multitasking skills, I have excelled in creating a welcoming dining atmosphere while managing tables efficiently. At XYZ Restaurant, I increased customer satisfaction scores by 20% by optimizing service speed and accuracy. My commitment to teamwork and adaptability was crucial in handling peak hours, reducing wait times significantly. I am eager to bring this dedication and efficiency to enhance the guest experience at your establishment.
Weak body paragraph example:
I'm very interested in the waitress position because I really need a job. I think I might do well, as I've been around diners but have never formally served. Though I'm not sure about dealing with difficult customers, I believe I can learn. Please, if you could give me a chance, I would be grateful.
STEP 4
Finish by encouraging next steps
The closing paragraph will be the final section of your waitress cover letter. Use this section to share any final skills or qualifications you possess and state your interest in a future interview. Go for confident tone and proper sign-off before signing your name.
Strong closing paragraph:
With a proven ability to provide exceptional customer service and create a welcoming atmosphere, I am eager to bring my skills to the team at The Gilded Spoon. I am confident that my expertise in multitasking and keen attention to detail make me an ideal fit for this role. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further during an interview. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Emily Carter
Weak closing paragraph:
I hope I can be considered for the waitress position, as I'm curious and eager to learn more about your restaurant. I'm not sure if I have all the skills needed, but I am willing to give it my best shot. Thanks for looking over my application. I look forward to possibly hearing from you.
Best regards,
Emily Rodriguez
See? Writing a cover letter for your waitress role can be easy with the right help. Check out our Cover Letter Builder for an even faster and more efficient way to create a custom cover letter tailored to your target job.
Top Skills to Include in Cover Letter Examples for Waitress
You should include a few relevant skills in your waitress cover letter to ensure you meet all the job requirements. These are some of the most relevant skills for a waitress; ensure you mix soft skills and hard skills that prove you're technically savvy and an excellent fit for the team.
- Customer Service
- Menu Knowledge
- Order Accuracy
- Point-of-Sale Systems
- Food Safety Practices
- Upselling Techniques
- Table Management
- Multilingual Communication
- Flexibility
- Team Collaboration
- Conflict Resolution
- Beverage Pairing
If you want to avoid bad writer's block, check out our Cover Letter Builder. Instead of facing a blank page for hours, our Builder will suggest dozens of content ideas for your letter based on your target job title.
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