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5 Journalism Cover Letter Examples Written for 2024

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You’re passionate about stories and providing accurate reports on the latest news. Publications will highly benefit from your research-driven and engaging writing style that brings articles and scripts to life.

Are your cover letter and complementary journalist resume ready to show why your writing skills are best for each publication’s needs?

You have the writing chops to create engaging content, so you probably just need a few pointers and guidelines to choose the right tone and skills as you create your cover letter . We’ll help you out with our journalism cover letter examples and cover letter generator that are consistently landing jobs at top media outlets.

Journalism Cover Letter Example

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Copy this text for your Journalism cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Austin, TX 78701 (123) 456-7890

December 12, 2023

Ethan Anderson Dell Technologies 123 Fictional Lane Austin, TX 78701

Dear Mr. Anderson:

I’m eager to work with Dell Technologies and revolutionize the social media manager role. My passion for audience engagement, understanding of digital trends, and proficiency in multiple content platforms will empower me to guide your team toward exceptional digital accomplishments.

While serving as a social media specialist at HostGator, my proficiency in social media analytics grew exponentially. Using Hootsuite and Google Analytics, I led a team of six in measuring, analyzing, and interpreting social data to optimize the performance of our social media posts. As a result, we increased user interaction by 37%, and website traffic from social platforms saw an 18% climb.

My tenure as a social media strategist at Gembah allowed me to harness Canva and Adobe Creative Suite to generate visually compelling content. Collaborating with the design team, I standardized the visual narrative across all social platforms, which led to a 29% boost in brand visibility and a 23% rise in the follower base in less than a year.

As a social media coordinator at Outdoor Voices, a clothing store in Austin, I capitalized on paid social media advertising strategies, employing Facebook Ad Manager and LinkedIn Campaign Manager. Our team’s campaigns saw increased conversion rates by 42% and decreased the cost per acquisition by 33%.

I’m confident that my deftness in understanding audience behavior, creating engaging content, analyzing performance metrics, and strategizing paid promotions will harmonize with Dell Technology’s social media strategy. Thank you for considering me.

Mateo Rodriguez

Enclosures: Resume Application letter Letter of recommendation Transcript of records

Why this cover letter works

• Taking Mateo’s lead, show that Hootsuite, Google Analytics, Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, Facebook Ads, and LinkedIn Campaign Managers aren’t just software names for you. Describe how these tools were instrumental in your previous roles, whether they refined data analysis or performance optimization or aided visual content creation and ad management.

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Journalism Internship Cover Letter Example

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123 Fictional Avenue Honolulu, HI 96801 (123) 456-7890

August 21, 2024

Leila Akbari Hawaii News Now 123 Fictional Lane Honolulu, HI 96801

Dear Ms. Akbari:

Given my robust background in information analysis and generating actionable insights, I am keen to contribute to the team at Hawaii News Now as a newsroom intern. My experience in data management and teamwork across diverse groups has fine-tuned my ability to support news production processes, ensuring the delivery of accurate and timely updates. I’m prepared to leverage my skills in research, content creation, and other essential newsroom duties to elevate the station’s coverage.

During my tenure at KHON2, I enhanced newsroom efficiency by implementing iNews, which markedly reduced weekly processing time from 17 to 11 hours. My expertise in Adobe Premiere Pro allowed for improved multimedia content production, and in my leadership capacity at HI Now, I spearheaded the creation of viral content and implemented SEO strategies, significantly increasing web traffic. Plus, experiences with digital tools like Audacity and WordPress have prepared me to generate and update compelling news stories across various platforms.

As a news reporter at KIKU in Hawaii, I managed live broadcasts, conducted field reporting, and oversaw social media strategy via Hootsuite. These responsibilities honed my writing, editing, and communication skills while emphasizing the importance of meeting rigorous deadlines—proficiencies I’m eager to bring to Hawaii News Now. My experience analyzing Nielsen ratings refined my analytical capabilities, guiding strategic content decisions that enhanced viewer engagement by 13% within six months.

I’m enthusiastic about contributing to your newsroom team by assisting in live broadcasts, script production, and administrative tasks. Additionally, the opportunity to participate in editorial briefings and training sessions resonates strongly with my ambition to continue enhancing my journalistic skills. I’m eager to explore how my background and abilities can be leveraged to further Hawaii News Now’s mission to provide comprehensive, accurate, and timely news coverage and uphold high standards of journalistic integrity.

Zoe Fischer

Enclosures Resume Transcript 2 letters of recommendation

• Now, when penning that journalism internship cover letter, take it as your stage to flaunt your familiarity with industry-relevant software. Perhaps, highlight how you’ve used Adobe Premiere Pro to craft killer content or how, with Audacity and WordPress in your toolkit, you’re equipped to churn out and polish up those compelling stories.

Broadcast Journalism Cover Letter Example

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123 Fictional Avenue Boise, ID 83702 (123) 456-7890

Harper Liu KTVB 7 123 Fictional Lane Boise, ID 83702

Dear Ms. Liu:

My core strength lies in delivering impactful news that not only connects with viewers but also upholds the highest journalistic standards. With a solid background in broadcast journalism gleaned from roles at KBOI, Idaho Press, and Idaho Public Television, my experience is perfectly tailored to the dynamic and engaging news coverage that Idahoans appreciate. My proven live broadcasting and multimedia content creation expertise equip me to substantially contribute as a news anchor at KTVB 7, embodying and celebrating Idaho’s vibrant and unique spirit.

While at KBOI, implementing the iNews system incredibly boosted newsroom efficiency, which culminated in reduced production times and enhanced workflows. My expertise in multimedia content production, utilizing tools like Final Cut Pro and Avid Media Composer, surged viewership by 34% and audience engagement metrics by 47%.

Idaho Press provided an opportunity to spearhead viral video production and live streaming, driving a 44% surge in website traffic. I demonstrated proficiency with DSLR cameras and Facebook Live, facilitating a 39% growth in viewer retention. These achievements have sharpened my skills in delivering precise and influential news content, which I’ll carry forward to my role at KTVB 7.

A brief stint at Idaho Public Television refined my live reporting skills and ensured I maintained high broadcast standards. Leveraging tools such as PromptSmart for teleprompting and managing social media presence through Hootsuite, I contributed to a significant 22% uptick in audience retention. My focus on data and performance metrics was critical for tailoring content strategies that effectively heightened viewer engagement and satisfaction.

With a Bachelor of Media Arts degree from Boise State University and deeply committed to journalistic integrity, my immediate priority is to make a meaningful impact at KTVB 7. I invite you to connect with me at your earliest convenience for a deeper conversation about how my background and enthusiasm for news broadcasting can be a valuable addition to your team. Thank you for considering my application.

Enclosures: Resume Transcript 2 letters of recommendation

• A 4 or 5-paragraph cover letter spanning no more than a page is more than enough for a compelling narration of your career. The trick? Cut to the chase, use active (as opposed to passive) voice, do away with redundant and filler phrases like I think that… and steer clear of big words. It’s about sharpening your message.

Journalist Cover Letter Example

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123 Fictional Avenue Jacksonville, FL 32201 (123) 456-7890

Mia Thomas WJXT Channel 4 123 Fictional Lane Jacksonville, FL 32201

Dear Ms. Thomas:

Having seen the impact WJXT Channel 4’s reporting makes in Jacksonville, I felt instantly drawn to your open journalist position. Your news coverage doesn’t just inform; it tells stories that resonate with a diverse audience. As your journalist, I aim to bring engaging stories from our communities, accentuated by meticulous research and vivid multimedia support.

At Jacksonville’s own WJCT Public Media, I led a news podcasting initiative leveraging both my deep local knowledge and technical skills. With listenership growing by 32% under my stewardship, I ensured the content was not only interesting but also well-researched using powerful database tools like LexisNexis. This fostered a spike in listener engagement, with average episode dwell time increasing by about 17 minutes.

I diversified communication channels at W291CI as the social media executive, managing the company’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram profiles. By curating content, scheduling posts through Hootsuite, and analyzing performance metrics, engagement rates improved by 42%. More so, our followers grew by over a third, reaching 23k from 17k within two years.

While working at WAWS-MyTVJax, I also honed my video editing prowess, using Adobe Premiere Pro. My creative yet factual storytelling style was instrumental in raising viewer retention by 34% and growing our late-night segment viewership by 26%. Paired with my social media management skills, digital engagement on shared video content went up by an impressive 41%.

Believing firmly in the power of journalism to enlighten and unify communities, I’m particularly drawn to WJXT Channel 4’s commitment to comprehensive and responsible reporting. I cannot overstate how excited I would be to join your team and contribute to your already renowned storytelling culture. I look forward to further discussing how my skills, experiences, and tireless enthusiasm for journalism can be an asset to your esteemed channel.

Zara Jafari

• For example, If the hiring company’s news coverage has left an impact on you, do share that you’re looking forward to contributing to their commendable work quality.

Reporter Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your Reporter cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue San Francisco, CA 94101 (123) 456-7890

Harper White San Francisco Examiner 123 Fictional Lane San Francisco, CA 94101

Dear Ms. White:

My first encounter with the San Francisco Examiner was on a school field trip amidst observers at the iconic tech boom in the city. As I witnessed its on-the-pulse journalism first-hand, I quietly committed to one day becoming a contributor to your institution. That aspiration brings me here today as I express my interest in the reporter position at the San Francisco Examiner.

Podcasting has been my primary domain for the past three years at Jives Media, a thriving San Franciscan media company. I’ve turned mere static news stories into engaging, immersive experiences, successfully increasing our podcasts’ average listener duration by 37%. I’m adept at using Anchor, a Spotify-owned podcasting tool, enabling me to manage, distribute, and monetize our podcast content, leading to a 22% revenue increase.

At SWAYE, I harnessed the power of mobile journalism to bring news to audiences in real time. There, I produced more than nine live streams weekly, which improved the reach of news articles by 33%. Additionally, my expertise in live reporting and streaming saw me delivering breaking news with superior efficiency, surging our viewership by 28%.

A believer in the power of immersive storytelling, I embraced virtual reality (VR) reporting at Emergent VR, a pioneering VR startup. Using Unity, I created immersive journalistic experiences that led to a remarkable increase in our user engagement. This approach, I believe, will deeply resonate with the Examiner’s forward-thinking audience.

I’m eager to inject my diverse abilities and ground-breaking techniques into the San Francisco Examiner’s journalistic endeavors. My vibrant career has been driven by my overarching goal to innovate, engage, and inform. Looking forward to potentially discussing how I can contribute to the Examiner’s mission in an interview. Thank you.

Emilia Schmidt

• In this case, Emilia recounts a field trip to the San Francisco Examiner that exposed her to the mesmerizing world of real-time journalism. Alternatively, talk about an enthralling experience with the company’s software or equipment.

Related cover letter examples

• Journalist resume
• Social media manager

How to Format a Journalism Cover Letter

Writing your cover letter is like adding the right details to a news story to grab a target audience’s attention. 

In this case, it involves reviewing the job description to get an idea of each company’s needs so you can include the right skills and connections to their mission. For example, you could write about how you’ll use your interviewing skills to gather industry-leading details for a cutting-edge news outlet.

Journalism cover letter introduction

In journalism, the introduction is crucial to grab a reader’s attention. It works the same way in a cover letter. Ideally, you want to tailor it to the hiring manager by using your research skills to find the name of a contact person in the job description or on the company’s website to provide a personalized touch. 

Then, optimize your opening paragraph by connecting the top skills needed by each publication and how you’ll help achieve their mission. For example, you could include how you’ll use your data analysis skills to help a publication uphold its accuracy and integrity in the reporting space. 

The opener below gets off to a decent start. However, it could use extra details about the applicant’s specific journalism skills and how they connect with the company they’re applying to.

Not quite enough detail here! 

Upon coming across your publication’s journalism job opening, I was immediately eager to apply since this looks like a great company to work for. With tons of writing experience, I believe my skills will be an asset to your team.  

Instead, aim for an opener like the one below that shows the applicant’s passion for the impact WIXT Channel 4’s reporting makes and how their research and multimedia abilities fit in. 

A top-notch opener with relevant journalism skills! 

Dear Mr. Thomas,

Having seen the impact WIXT Channel 4’s reporting makes in Jacksonville, I felt instantly drawn to your open journalist position. Your news coverage doesn’t just inform; it tells stories that resonate with a diverse audience. As your journalist, I aim to bring engaging stories from our communities, accentuated by meticulous research and vivid multimedia support.

Journalism cover letter body

The body of your journalism cover letter is similar to the one in an article. You need facts and figures to back up your claims. In this case, it’s metrics and examples based on previous journalistic achievements. 

For example, you could write about how you optimized introductions to boost reader retention rates or applied a new data review model to boost reporting accuracy. 

If you don’t have much work experience , you can also add achievements from obtaining a journalism degree or transferable experiences like working on a school newspaper.

A great body paragraph with journalistic achievements!

At SWAYE, I harnessed the power of mobile journalism to bring news to audiences in real-time. There, I produced more than nine live streams weekly, which improved the reach of news articles by 33%. Additionally, my expertise in live reporting and streaming saw me delivering breaking news with superior efficiency, surging our viewership by 28%.

Journalism cover letter closing

Just as every article should have a conclusion that wraps up your key points, so should your journalism cover letter. This involves rephrasing your top skills and connection to the publication’s mission. For example, you could write about how you’re eager to use your social media skills to present up-to-date news to a broader audience.  

Then, wrap things up by saying thank you and using a call to action, such as “I’m excited to discuss this journalism role with you further.” It’s similar to ending a thought leadership piece where you want the reader to take a specific action. 

The closer below could use some work since it’s missing a call to action or any connection to the news outlet’s mission or the journalism skills they’re seeking.

Add more detail than this! 

I believe my skills will be a great fit for your news outlet’s needs. Thank you for considering me for the journalism role. 

Donna Mason

Instead, aim for a closer like the one below that showcases a great overview of the skills in content creation, performance metrics, and paid promotions that Dell Technology is seeking. 

A high-performing closer based on company needs! 

I’m confident that my deftness in understanding audience behavior, creating engaging content, analyzing performance metrics, and strategizing paid promotions will harmonize with Dell Technology’s social media strategy. Thank you for considering me.

The best way to optimize your tone will be to match the one used in the job description . It’ll help showcase how your writing style aligns with each publication’s culture and audience. 

One page will work best for your journalism cover letter. It’s similar to news stories where you want to include relevant information but keep it concise with the most essential details. In this case, it would be the skills needed for each role, such as editorial research or storytelling. 

Sometimes, media outlets and publications won’t have a hiring manager listed anywhere. So, simply using “Dear [name of company] hiring team” will still work well. Then, make the rest of your cover letter highly specific to the broadcasting and reporting skills they’re seeking. 

Journalist Cover Letter Example

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Start your journalist cover letter by addressing the hiring manager directly, if possible. Then, introduce yourself and briefly mention the position you're applying for. For example, "Dear [Hiring Manager's Name], I am a seasoned journalist with over five years of experience in investigative reporting, and I am excited to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company's Name]." This approach is professional and immediately communicates your interest in the role. Follow this with a compelling hook that highlights your most relevant achievements or experiences. This could be a significant story you've covered, an award you've won, or a unique skill you possess. This will grab the reader's attention and make them want to learn more about you.

The best way for journalists to end a cover letter is by expressing enthusiasm for the opportunity and a desire for further discussion. This can be done by saying something like, "I am excited about the possibility of contributing to your team and would welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further." It's also important to thank the reader for their time and consideration. This shows respect and appreciation. Lastly, sign off professionally with "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name. This ending strikes a balance between professionalism and eagerness, which is crucial in the journalism field.

In a cover letter, journalists should include the following: 1. Contact Information: At the top of the letter, include your name, address, phone number, and email address. If you have a professional website or online portfolio, include that as well. 2. Salutation: Address the letter to a specific person if possible. If you can't find a specific name, use a general salutation like "Dear Hiring Manager." 3. Introduction: Start by introducing yourself and stating the position you're applying for. Mention where you found the job posting. 4. Body: This is where you sell yourself. Highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. As a journalist, you might want to discuss your ability to research and write stories, meet deadlines, and work under pressure. If you have any specializations (like investigative journalism or political reporting), mention them here. 5. Examples of Work: Provide examples of your work that demonstrate your skills. If you're applying for a print journalism job, for example, you might mention articles you've written that were particularly well-received. If you're applying for a broadcast journalism job, you could discuss a news segment you produced. 6. Knowledge about the Company: Show that you've done your homework. Mention something specific about the company or publication that you admire and explain how you could contribute to it. 7. Closing: In your closing paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the potential job opportunity. Thank the reader for their time and consideration. 8. Signature: End with a professional closing like "Sincerely" or "Best," followed by your name. Remember, a cover letter is your chance to make a strong first impression. It should be well-written, free of errors, and tailored to the specific job and company you're applying to.

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Journalism cover letter example

They say a journalist is a machine that converts coffee into copy. The hours are long, the pay is low, but the satisfaction is eternal. Notice that the Justice Department didn’t bring down Richard Nixon — the Washington Post did. 

Journalists write the first draft of history. They keep us informed, entertained and outraged. They are educated, intelligent, witty and nosy — they’re in the business of asking questions that are none of their business. They have long memories, short fuses, and a low tolerance for lies.

Journalism has undergone changes like few other professions, from the ink-stained wretches of the 19th century to the radio reporters of World War II to the network stars of CNN to the self-appointed blogger outing bad behavior on his block in the 2020s.

The advent of the internet sent print journalism into a tailspin not long after the year 2000. In the two decades since then, newspapers have seen massive layoffs, huge cutbacks and dizzying consolidations, and some have closed forever as the masses turned to online news sources. Broadcast news remains viable, but the days when you had to wait until 6 p.m. to find out what was going on in the world are forever gone.

Journalism in the 21st century is more democratic than ever — anyone can become a journalist, depending on how you define the word. Yet “old-school” journalists interested in the time-honored tradition of cultivating sources, reporting stories, pursuing investigations, and publishing or broadcasting the news should take heart from the fact that there are more venues, channels and platforms available to them than ever before. 

Did you ever see a news website that had no use for writers , editors, photographers, videographers, designers or artists? That website would be a totally blank page. The delivery vehicles have changed, but the need for content creators is greater than ever.

Which brings us to our current topic — how to get a job in journalism. In the old days, you might get your start by being a “copy boy.” Nowadays, you’re going to need a resume and a cover letter. 

You’ve come to the right place. Resume.io is a leading global provider of cover letter templates, online tools, as well as professional, occupation-specific cover letter examples to prepare them. And yes, many of our writers are (or used to be) stone-cold journalists.

For guidance on how to prepare your resume, consult our all-purpose guide on “How to write a resume.” But you’re going to need a proper journalism cover letter to go with it, and that’s what this article is about. The journalism cover letter example at the top provides a useful model.

What we’ll address here:

Why a journalist needs a cover letter

• How to structure your cover letter
• How to design an irresistible cover letter
• How to write a persuasive cover letter

Common mistakes to avoid

Let’s fire up the coffee pot and get started.

Most good journalists are good writers, even if they work as photographers, artists, designers or online producers. It’s rare to excel at anything in journalism without being a good writer, and we’re going to assume that’s what you are.

So you need to showcase your writing skills — and when applying for a job, there’s no better way to do that than in a cover letter. 

To be brutal, it would be insane to apply for a journalism job without a cover letter. It would be like entering a cake-baking competition without a cake. 

For a journalist, a cover letter literally demonstrates your skills at doing your job — being personable, making connections, telling stories, drawing conclusions, changing minds. It’s like a mathematician being asked to write an equation, or a chef to prepare a dish — it’s precisely what you do best. 

Even if you want to be a dog groomer, you need a cover letter — you can’t just demonstrate your skills by sending the employer a dog you groomed. But in journalism, you can and you must demonstrate your skills by sending a well-written, well-argued, well-designed cover letter proving from the get-go that you’re good at what you do. 

A recent survey of hiring managers found that one of the top reasons job applicants were ignored — in all fields — was their failure to include a cover letter. It’s an expected part of any job application, and if you don’t include one, you’re shooting yourself in the foot.

Best format for a journalism cover letter

If you’re a print reporter, you know the importance of structure — the lede, the nut graf, the body, the kicker. They say news stories are made up of notes, quotes and anecdotes, but they’re organized according to a coherent structure. 

Good journalism cover letters don’t happen by accident — they are deliberately structured to deliver the desired results. Follow this cover letter structure to make sure your story doesn’t lose its way:

Cover letter header

Cover letter greeting.

• Introduction
• Body of the letter
• Conclusion and call to action

This cover letter example for a journalism application will give you a starting point for your own letter:

Dear Mr. Hatherley,

Receiving my Story of the Year award from Dawson Heckham at the Sports News Awards made me understand just how much impact our words have on the soccer industry and its fan base. People love discussing sports, but they equally love reading an opinion and thinking through how their thoughts might differ.

Sports journalists help fans to relive those moments of magic through the medium of words, and with an average of 47.5m annual views of my articles, I hope that my six years at Soccer Media made an impact. A Senior Reporter position at a national publication would allow me to bring my unprecedented player and coach insights to a wider audience.

As a former academy soccer player and top college draft pick (while studying for a journalism degree), many of the biggest players have been my peers. My close relationships give me access to the stories behind what happens on the pitch. Anyone can understand that a goal is scored, but I explore the emotions behind the goals. I have broken some of the biggest soccer stories from the past years:

• Five exclusives exploring the development and player transfers of Miami United.
• Lead reporter for the soccer draft from 2017-2019, interviewing the future stars.
• My international expose around the agent bribery scandal won story of the year.

Prior to my journalism career, I worked for a leading MLS club as an assistant in their PR department for two years, running their blog as well as coordinating their press relations. I was one of the first in the industry to cultivate a successful social media presence.

I enclose a portfolio of my most popular articles for your interest and would welcome the opportunity to share my passion for the sport of soccer.

Travis Jenner

The top of your page must contain a header with your name, profession, address, phone and email. Omitting this info would be like printing a blank business card — nobody is ever going to know who you are, what you do or how to reach you.

Journalists understand the importance of good design, and that’s the second function of the header. When done right, it’s an attractive design element that makes the letter look good at a glance, before anyone has read the first word. This might mean a splash of color and/or creative use of typography, layout and white space. It should give the page an eye-pleasing look at arm’s length, prompting the reader to want to look closer.

Take a look at some of the free cover letter templates at resume.io to get an idea of what well-designed headers look like. Download one of these, enter your personal info, and you can save yourself a lot of trouble trying to design your own header.

Give your resume and cover letter a matching look

Your resume and cover letter should use the same fonts and formatting styles, and colors if any, so that’s it’s obvious they were designed by the same person and were meant to go together. 

This gives you a “visual brand” and shows that you pay attention to detail, you understand the importance of coherent design, and you aren’t just randomly experimenting with new fonts and styles. It also makes the hiring manager associate a certain visual style with your name.

“Dear John” is perhaps the most famous letter greeting ever, suggesting an imminent breakup, but yours can open the way to happier endings. “Dear Mr. X:” or “Dear Ms. Z:” are the traditional ways to open any business correspondence, including a journalism cover letter, and you should generally follow this format unless you have a good reason not to.

One thing is for sure: If your cover letter starts off with “Dear New York Times,” you are doomed. Whether you’re a film reviewer, an Africa correspondent or a digital graphics guru, you’re dead in the water if you haven’t even bothered to figure out which department to address your letter to, let alone who heads it. 

Do everything in your power to find out who makes the hiring decisions for the job you want, and address your letter to that person. If no names are listed in the job post you’re responding to, use your superpowers as a journalist to find out. If web sleuthing fails, try the old-fashioned telephone — just call and ask.

Cover letter introduction

It’s time to write your lede, which is the most important part of any story because it comes first. Every day, millions of people scan news stories in print and online deciding whether to read them by glancing only at the first paragraph. If it grabs them, you’re in; if it doesn’t, they’ll move on.

You may need to devote more effort to your first paragraph than to the rest of the letter combined. Every good story needs a strong beginning, middle and end. If you’re only good at the middle and the end, you’re in trouble, because nobody will get past the beginning.

Do not open by saying “I’m writing this letter…” — the reader already knows you’re writing this letter. Do not say, “Please consider this letter my application for…” — just start writing the letter. Use active, provocative, interesting language that makes the reader want to keep reading. 

Here’s an example of a journalist cover letter intro that really grabs attention:

Cover letter body

The best anecdotal lede fizzles out if you don’t get to the meat of the story soon. Some editors insist on a “nut graf,” one paragraph that describes the story in a nutshell, before it jumps to an inside page. 

The same is true of a journalism cover letter — once you’ve hooked the reader, you need to get down to business pretty fast. Think of USA Today, where most stories that begin on the front page have to end there too. 

In most cases, a cover letter should be a maximum of 400 words, contained to one page, and that requires extreme brevity. 

In the body of your letter, the central two or three paragraphs, you must present the “nutshell” of your case — why your experience, skills and passions make you the ideal candidate for this job. 

Experience is always key, so you must describe what you have done in this field to prove your chops. Don’t just describe where you worked or for how long, but tell stories about challenges you faced and how you overcame them. Be specific, using facts and figures wherever possible.

Sports journalists help fans to relive those moments of magic through the medium of words, and with an average of 47.5m annual views of my articles, I hope that my six years at Soccer Media made an impact. A Senior Reporter position at a national publication would allow me to bring my unprecedented player and coach insights to a wider audience. 

Cover letter conclusion

You want to end with a bang, not a whimper. You might offer a brief recap of what you’ve already said, and you might thank the reader for his or her time, but you must propose some kind of call to action. This can be as simple as saying that you’re looking forward to a response, or that you would be delighted to talk further about the skills you could bring to the table for the employer you’re targeting. 

End on a confident (but not arrogant) note, looking forward to continuing the conversation you’ve started. 

Cover letter sign-off

Close with a simple “Sincerely,” “All my best,” “Best regards,” or whatever sounds right, and then type your full name below that.

To see all of these structural elements in an actual one-page letter, take a look at the journalism cover letter sample above.

Cover letter for a journalist with no experience

A cover letter for a journalist with no experience requires a slightly different approach. It’s a tougher sell, but everyone has to start somewhere. If nobody could ever get a job without experience, then nobody on earth would have a job. 

To write a cover letter if you’re a journalist with no experience, emphasize any credentials you have that are relevant. Include links to stories/photos/artwork you’ve produced, even if you were unpaid. Accentuate your successes, no matter how modest. Focus on your education more than your experience. Talk about your passion for journalism, even if your credentials are slim, and sell yourself with your writing skills.

If you’re still in school, or you’re looking to change careers to go into journalism, simply say so. Remember that once upon a time, the editor you’re writing to had no experience either.

How to write a persuasive journalism cover letter

No journalist succeeds by writing something that nobody wants to read, and the same is true of writing a cover letter for journalism. You have to find your target audience, and in this case your target is a hiring manager looking to hire a reliable professional.

So you have to try to get inside this person’s head a bit. What are editors looking for? They’re looking for professional, competent journalists who can consistently deliver newsworthy stories. They’re not looking for self-important prima donnas who think they’re God’s gift to journalism. You need the editor to like you and to want to work with you. Nobody wants to hire somebody they don’t like.

So, not unlike a reporter working your sources, you need to try to fit in, to walk and talk like the people you’re trying to influence. You need to use a little psychology to “read the mind” of the people whose help you need, and to demonstrate that you belong in their world. A cops reporter we know once agreed to be tased in the middle of a police station, on video, with all the cops gleefully watching, and he was their hero from that day forward. 

Always remember that in a cover letter for journalism, you’re not trying to explain to anyone what you need or what you want. You’re trying to convince editors that they need you (or at least that they would benefit greatly from you on their team). 

If you look at the journalism cover letter sample above, you’ll see that the author is neither demanding a job nor begging for one, but demonstrating that he offers value to the news organization he seeks to represent. 

According to the great newsman Joseph Pulitzer, the three biggest imperatives in journalism are “accuracy, accuracy, accuracy!” Here are some mistakes you can’t afford to make:

• Typos, misspellings, bad grammar and other writing errors. Simple English mistakes in a one-page journalism cover letter can be instant disqualifiers.
• Cover letter clichés and lazy language. If you use trite, hackneyed phrases, like saying you “think outside the box,” this proves the exact opposite — that you are not an original thinker and that you just borrow your ideas from others.
• Copy-paste letters sent to all: Every journalism cover letter should be unique and tailored to a specific employer, discussing its specific needs.
• Terrible design: If your cover letter for journalism looks awful at a glance, with ugly fonts too small to read, tiny margins or other design flaws, few editors will take you seriously.

Key takeaways

• Journalists play a key role in informing, persuading and entertaining the public, and despite the massive upheaval in this sector in recent years, the world will always need journalists.
• For journalists seeking jobs, a well-written, well-designed resume and cover letter are an essential part of any job application.
• Like a well-structured story, a good journalism cover letter adheres to a well-designed framework.
• To write a successful application letter for a journalism position, you need to get inside the mind of the editor and deliver what that person wants to read, not just what you want to write.

You can avoid a multitude of errors by starting with a cover letter sample from resume.io, using a pre-formatted, pre-designed template where the structure and design are already done. All that’s left for you to do is to write the letter.

Here are other creative cover letters to inspire you:

• Freelancer cover letter sample
• Writer cover letter sample
• Public relations cover letter sample
• Social media manager cover letter sample

Free professionally designed templates

8 Professional Journalist Cover Letter Examples for 2024

In your journalist cover letter, showcase your ability to tell a story compellingly. Highlight your knack for uncovering the truth and connecting with readers. Demonstrate your versatility across different media platforms. Your cover letter should also reflect your understanding of the ever-evolving journalistic landscape.

All cover letter examples in this guide

Student Journalist

News Director

Sports Journalist

Magazine Journalist

Broadcast Journalist

Multimedia Journalist

Fashion Journalist

Cover letter guide.

Journalist Cover Letter Sample

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Salutation

Cover Letter Introduction

Cover Letter Body

Cover Letter Closing

No Experience Journalist Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

By Experience

Crafting a journalist cover letter can be a daunting step in the job application process. You've meticulously updated your resume and now realize a cover letter is required—one that doesn't just mimic your resume, but spotlights your proudest journalistic triumph through an engaging narrative. Striking a balance between formality and originality, avoiding clichés, and condensing your story into a single page adds to the challenge. Let's navigate these hurdles together and pen a cover letter that stands out.

• Create a journalist cover letter to persuade the recruiters you're the best candidate for the role;
• Use industry-leading journalist cover letter templates and examples to save time;
• Dedicate your journalist cover letter space to your best achievement;
• Make sure your journalist cover letter meets recruiters' expectations and standards.

Avoid starting at the blank page for hours by using Enhancv's AI - just upload your resume and your journalist cover letter will be ready for you to (tweak and) submit for your dream job.

If the journalist isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:

• Journalist resume guide and example
• Voice Actor cover letter example
• Photographer cover letter example
• Model cover letter example
• Film Production cover letter example
• Video Producer cover letter example
• Wedding Photographer cover letter example
• Band Director cover letter example
• Fashion Stylist cover letter example
• Cinematographer cover letter example
• Actor cover letter example

Journalist cover letter example

San Francisco, CA

+1-(234)-555-1234

[email protected]

• Highlighting relevant experience such as the exclusive scoop on AI in autonomous vehicles showcases the candidate's ability to deliver impactful and newsworthy content, which is crucial for a journalist role.
• Emphasizing the results of the candidate's work, including the 30% increase in website traffic, demonstrates data-driven accomplishments and an understanding of audience engagement, both important for a digital publication.
• Expressing enthusiasm and alignment with the publication's standards and goals suggests a cultural fit and an appreciation of the company's values, making the candidate potentially more appealing to the hiring manager.

Structuring and formatting your journalist cover letter

Here's what the structure of your journalist cover letter should include:

• Header (with your name, the position you're applying for, and the date);
• Salutation (or greeting);
• Introductory paragraph (or your opening statement);
• Body paragraph (or further proof of your experience);
• Closing paragraph (with a call to action);
• Signature (that is optional).

Use the same font for your journalist resume and cover letter - modern fonts like Lato and Rubik would help you stand out.

Your journalist cover letter should be single-spaced and have a one-inch margins - this format is automatically set up in our cover letter templates and our cover letter builder .

When submitting your cover letter, always ensure it's in PDF, as this format keeps the information intact (and the quality of your document stays the same).

On one final note - the Applicant Tracker System (ATS or the software that is sometimes used to initially assess your application) won't read your journalist cover letter.

The top sections on a journalist cover letter

• Header: Include your contact information at the top of the cover letter so the recruiter can easily reach you; for journalists, having a professional header signals attention to presentation and detail, which are relevant to the role.
• Personalized Greeting: Research and use the name of the hiring manager or editor; personalization shows you've done your homework, an essential trait for a journalist.
• Introduction: Begin with a compelling hook and showcase your passion for journalism; this sets the tone and demonstrates your storytelling ability.
• Career Highlights: Detail relevant reporting experiences, key stories covered, or significant achievements in journalism; this section shows your practical expertise and credibility in the field.
• Closing Paragraph: Conclude with a strong finish, reiterating your enthusiasm for the position and explaining how you plan to contribute to their team; as a journalist, your concluding remarks should leave a lasting impression, prompting the recruiter to take action.

Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter

• Strong writing and storytelling skills: Demonstrates the ability to create compelling content that engages readers.
• Nose for news: Shows an instinct for digging up newsworthy stories that are relevant and interesting to the audience.
• Investigative research abilities: Reflects the capacity to conduct thorough and accurate research, crucial for credibility and in-depth reporting.
• Multimedia proficiency: Indicates the capability to use various platforms and tools, like video, audio, and social media, for modern, multi-channel journalism.
• Ethical integrity: Recruiters look for journalists who adhere to high ethical standards, maintaining trustworthiness and impartiality.
• Resilience under pressure: Illustrates the potential to perform efficiently against tight deadlines and in potentially stressful or dangerous situations.

Kick off your journalist cover letter: the salutation or greeting

When writing your journalist cover letter, remember that you're not writing for some complex AI or robot, but for actual human beings.

And recruiters, while on the lookout to understand your experience, would enjoy seeing a cover letter that is tailored to the role and addresses them . Personally.

So, if you haven't done so, invest some time in finding out who's the hiring manager for the role you're applying to. A good place to start would be LinkedIn and the corporate website.

Alternatively, you could also get in touch with the company to find out more information about the role and the name of the recruiter.

If you haven't met the hiring manager, yet, your journalist cover letter salutation should be on a last-name basis (e.g. "Dear Mr. Donaldson" or "Dear Ms. Estephan").

A good old, "Dear HR Professional" (or something along those lines) could work as your last resort if you're struggling to find out the recruiter's name.

List of salutations you can use

• Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],
• Dear [Editor-in-Chief's Name],
• Dear [Mr./Ms./Dr. Last Name],
• Dear [Publication Name] Team,
• Dear [Department Name] Search Committee,
• Dear [Hiring Manager's Title],

Your journalist cover letter intro: showing your interest in the role

On to the actual content of your journalist cover letter and the introductory paragraph .

The intro should be no more than two sentences long and presents you in the best light possible.

Use your journalist cover letter introduction to prove exactly what interests you in the role or organization. Is it the:

• Company culture;
• Growth opportunities;
• Projects and awards the team worked on/won in the past year;
• Specific technologies the department uses.

When writing your journalist cover letter intro, be precise and sound enthusiastic about the role.

Your introduction should hint to recruiters that you're excited about the opportunity and that you possess an array of soft skills, e.g. motivation, determination, work ethic, etc.

Storytelling in the middle (or body) of your journalist cover letter

You've got your whole resume sorted, detailing your achievements and skills. What else can you write in your journalist cover letter ?

For starters, take the time to re-assess the job requirements and re-discover the most crucial skills and requirements (or keywords).

After making a list of these important keywords, look back on your experience to select just one of your past accomplishments.

Choose the achievement that is the most noteworthy, relevant to the role, and matches the required skills.

Use the next between three and six paragraphs to narrate how:

• you've grown your skill set, thanks to your achievement;
• you'd use the know-how you've gained in your new role;
• your accomplishment could help your potential employers grow.

Remember that recruiters don't need a retelling of your whole resume, but want to find out what makes you, you.

Final words: writing your journalist cover letter closing paragraph

The final paragraph of your journalist cover letter allows you that one final chance to make a great first impression .

Instead of going straight to the "sincerely yours" ending, you can back up your skills with a promise of:

• how you see yourself growing into the role;
• the unique skills you'd bring to the organization.

Whatever you choose, always be specific (and remember to uphold your promise, once you land the role).

If this option doesn't seem that appealing to you, close off your journalist cover letter with a follow-up request.

You could even provide your availability for interviews so that the recruiters would be able to easily arrange your first meeting.

Which story should you tell in your journalist cover letter when you have zero experience

Candidates, lacking professional experience in the field - this one is for you.

Your journalist cover letter is an exercise of integrity, honesty, and, above all, spinning a positive narrative around your strengths.

And what better way to capture recruiters' attention than with your most job-relevant achievement (this could be from your internship or volunteering experience)?

Make sure to back up your success with transferrable skills that are relevant to the job (e.g. how your year, studying abroad, has taught you to be more motivated and handle multicultural environments).

Another safe card you can bet on is your career dream: in the body of your journalist cover letter, go into the details of how your ambitions would help make the company you're applying for better.

Key takeaways

Within this Enhancv guide, we've provided you with plenty of advice and inspiration on writing your journalist cover letter:

• Always make sure your journalist cover letter is tailored to the role you're applying for to make a good impression on recruiters;
• In your journalist cover letter include a header (with your name, the role you're applying for, date, and contact details) and an introduction of up to two sentences that highlight your key accomplishment or why you'd fit the role;
• Focus your journalist cover letter body on one sole achievement through your career and all the valuable lessons, skills, and know-how you've learned (that are relevant to the role);
• Ensure your journalist cover letter closing statement isn't generic and includes either a call to action or a promise;
• If you lack professional experience, shift recruiters' focus to a relevant achievement (thanks to your academic or versatile experience) or toward your dreams and goals for professional growth.

Journalist cover letter examples

Explore additional journalist cover letter samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.

Cover letter examples by industry

AI cover letter writer, powered by ChatGPT

Enhancv harnesses the capabilities of ChatGPT to provide a streamlined interface designed specifically focused on composing a compelling cover letter without the hassle of thinking about formatting and wording.

• Content tailored to the job posting you're applying for
• ChatGPT model specifically trained by Enhancv
• Lightning-fast responses

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Journalism Cover Letter: Examples & Step-by-Step Guide

In this article, we'll cover:

Journalism Cover Letter Examples

How to write a cover letter for a journalist job, journalism cover letter template.

As a journalist, you will be responsible for investigating, collecting, and presenting information as a news story which can be delivered through newspapers, magazines, radio, television, or the internet. Based on such news, citizens are able to make the best possible decisions about all aspects of their lives like business, healthcare, politics, etc.

As a thrilling yet competitive job prospect, journalism takes more than just a huge passion for writing to get into. One of the basic requirements is crafting a strong journalist cover letter that helps pitch yourself effectively to employers. From a journalism internship cover letter to a reporter cover letter, we will have them all covered with an ultimate guide, winning tips, and excellent samples. 

Having a well-written cover letter and resume might be one of the most challenging parts when applying for a job. Let’s start off with 2 cover letter samples for journalism jobs as shown below:

✉️ Journalism internship cover letter sample

Gracie Lee Garnette  [email protected] (+0936)-xxx-xxx

August 06, 2022

Evan Huang Editor-in-chief  Times Magazine 603 Springdale Rd, Austin, TX 78721  [email protected]

Dear Mr. Huang,

My name is Gracie, a final-year student at the University of Arizona School of Journalism majoring in Photojournalism. When Professor Keith Smiths told me about the opening for Publications Intern at the Times Magazine and suggested I should apply, I knew this was an opportunity where my writing can make a valuable contribution.  

While still in high school, I was elected the editor-in-chief of the school newspaper which covered a variety of topics such as sports, movie reviews, career counseling, and human interest stories. Back then, my major responsibilities included overseeing the production of articles for publications and developing content strategies.

My passion for journalism is not limited to writing, but I also have a keen interest in photography and research. That motivated me to pursue a bachelor's degree in Photojournalism. During 3 years at the University of Arizona School of Journalism, I’ve produced 400+ articles for both school activities and my personal projects. Moreover, I’ve conducted nearly 30 interviews, which were published on the school's Facebook page.

I am an open-minded, fast learner with a willingness to take on new challenges. Being a Publications Intern at the Times Magazine will allow me to gain plenty of professional experience and, at the same time, bring fresh ideas and enthusiasm to your company.

Please find enclosed my resume, writing samples, and references. I would enjoy an opportunity  to learn more about the internship program and further discuss how I can contribute to the team with you. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely, Gracie Lee Garnette

✉️ Cover letter for news reporters

Ryan Leone (+190)-390-xxxx  [email protected]

August 13, 2022

Jessica Pullman Hiring Manager Channel4U 3901 Oak Run Ln, Mansfield, TX 76063

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the position of News Reporter at Channel4U. Having 4 years of experience working for local media outlets, I fully understand the reporter's duties and responsibilities. I also feel that my interests and skills closely align with what Channel 4U is doing. 

I graduated in Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia at the University of North Carolina in 2015, but started my full-time career in 2016 after completing a six-month internship at Garnett. The news reporting internship allowed me to gain plenty of experience in local news, breaking news, and digital optimization - not to mention, strong research and storytelling skills.

After the internship, I worked as a Breaking News Reporter at HuffPost, a subsidiary of BuzzFeed, Inc., for 4 years. My responsibilities primarily included: 

• Gathering and reporting breaking news on a range of subjects, from politics to major court cases to international demonstrations.
• Contributing to live coverage of major events, such as elections, debates, and natural disasters.
• Pitching ideas for daily news coverage on new topics.
• Working closely with editors to develop and execute longer-form stories or projects. 

Here are links to my most-viewed news stories that you might find interesting:

• Foodverse x NFT: 3 major trends followed by big food companies
• Top 5 biggest NFT marketplaces in 2022 you should know
• Did you know? Research on the perceptions & interests of NFTs among sport fans

I have attached my resume with detailed work history and portfolio for your further review. Please let me know if you have any questions. I would love to schedule a meeting to discuss how my expertise can help Channel4U make a lasting impact, both locally and nationally.

Best regards, Ryan Leone

💡 Choose the standard cover letter format.

Keep in mind that you’re writing a business letter. Hence, make sure your journalism cover letter is well-formatted and includes the following elements: 

• Your full name and contact details (i.e., email address, phone number, physical address, LinkedIn, or personal website) 
• Date submitted (MM/DD/YY)
• The recipient’s name and job title  
• The company’s name and physical address
• A formal salutation (generally start with Dear)
• A short introduction (who you are and why you're applying for this role)
• Body paragraphs (what makes you the best fit in terms of education, experience, and skills; and how you can contribute to the employer)
• A closing paragraph (express your appreciation and include a CTA for an interview opportunity)
• A proper sign-off and signature

✨ Reminder: To gain a better understanding of a journalism cover letter, please refer to the graphic at the top of the page. 

💡 Tailor your journalist cover letter to the role.

Since each job within the journalism sector asks for different requirements, make sure both your resume and cover letter are customized accordingly. 

Let's say, when writing a journalism cover letter with no experience, you should place an emphasis on your educational background and relevant skills. On the other hand, it's important to underline relevant experience and accomplishments if you’ve stayed in the field for a while. 

Likewise, the skills included in a reporter cover letter will be not the same as a journalist cover letter. The hiring manager can thus see your relevance to the role and be more likely to offer you the interview opportunity.

💡 Highlight relevant skills or experience.

Perhaps you have already mentioned essential journalist skills in your resume. However, a cover letter will allow you to be more specific about these, particularly how you've developed these skills and how they have been or will be applied at work. 

10 key skills you can highlight in your cover letter for a journalism job: 

• Writing & editing skills
• Reporting skills
• Research skills
• Story-telling skills 
• Interpersonal skills
• Active listening
• Social media savvy
• Attention to detail 
• Time management

Example of presenting skills in a cover letter for news reporters :

“During my 6 years at X Channel, I also worked closely with the production team to explore a wide variety of innovative story ideas and topics. Besides strong team collaboration skills, I've also received commendations for demonstrating exceptional storytelling skills, meeting every deadline, and paying attention to the smallest details.”

💡 Keep it concise.

As a general rule of thumb, a journalism cover letter should range between 170-300 words. Making it too short may lead the hiring manager to think that you didn't put much effort into the job application, or that you don't have lots of things to show. A letter exceeding 400 words, on the other hand, can be deemed too lengthy or likely to rehash your journalist resume.

💡 Proofread and ask for feedback.  

You've made great efforts to showcase your excellent writing skills throughout your  journalist cover letter and resume. If so, don't make them land in the trash due to grammatical errors or typos. 

You can use online grammar and spell checkers like LanguageTool , GrammarCheck , Grammarly , etc. to make sure they are error-free and good to go. Besides that, it's highly recommended you have your Professor or former colleague/employer proofread your cover letter and give you some useful feedback. 

Feel free to use the ready-to-use template below if you’re preparing your journalist cover letter.

[Your Full Name]  [Your Address]  [Your Email Address]  [Your Phone Number]

[ Date Written ]

[Recipient’s Name]  [Recipient’s Job Title]  [Company Name]  [Company Address]

Dear Hiring Manager/Mr.Mrs [ Last Name ] , 

In response to your job ad on [ Job Site ] , I am very interested in the [ Job Role ] position at [ Company Name ] , and believe that my previous work experience, educational background, and developed skillset will allow me to contribute to the ongoing success at your organization.

I graduated from [ Your college ] with a major in [ Your Major ] and started my journalism career after that. During [ Number ] of years as a [ Former Job ] , my major duties and responsibilities include:

• [ List out 3-5 tasks you handled previously ]
• [ Show a quantifiable result ]

During my tenure in this position, I’ve thoroughly honed my journalism, researching, and reporting skills, as well as succeeded in meeting all deadlines. Besides that, I consider myself as a [ Personal Trait ] journalist with [ Soft Skill 1 ] and [ Soft Skill 2 ] . 

I am now looking to [Career Goals] which closely align with [ Company Name ] ’s vision and core values. Please kindly find attached my resume and portfolio with a sample of my articles. I look forward to speaking with you more about my qualifications and how I can add value to the organization. 

Thank you for your time and consideration. 

Sincerely,  [Your Name]

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WTO / Letters and Emails / Cover Letters / Journalism Cover Letter Examples

Journalism Cover Letter Examples

A journalism cover letter is a brief, formal letter that accompanies the resume of someone applying to be a journalist.

The cover letter usually includes information about the applicant’s qualifications, including their journalism experience, to show employers that they have the necessary skills, such as reporting, investigating, interviewing, etc., that are needed in a journalist.

The main purpose of a cover letter is to introduce the applicant to the potential employer and provide a summary of their background and qualifications. Therefore, it should be brief yet informative. The letter can be addressed to different individuals, such as an editor or reader at a particular media/publishing company, as well as any hiring managers for an individual position within that company.

It is an effective way of distinguishing yourself from other applicants with similar credentials. This can greatly boost your chances of securing the job, especially in entry-level positions .

In addition, writing a cover letter ensures you create a lasting impression on the employer by offering them additional information that was not communicated through your resume. As such, your cover letter will outline your specific skills with context, reasons why you want and qualify for the job, your contribution to your previous job position, and other details that illustrate your suitability and competency.

Often the personalization of the cover letter is advised. A personalized letter shows that you are dedicated to the job offered and are not just applying for the position with a generic journalism cover letter.

This article will competently guide you on how to write a solid journalism cover letter and offer examples of how to write its components and other informative details.

How to Professionally Format a Journalism Cover Letter

The format of a cover letter usually depends on the job description and its requirements. However, some standard formatting essentials will aid you in creating a professional cover letter. Knowing how to format a cover letter requires you to have an understanding of what information should be included in it.

Here are some tips and guidelines for professionally formatting a journalism cover letter:

• Use a one-inch margin on all sides.
• Ensure the spacing of the letter is 1 or 1.15. Also, leave empty spaces between sections of the letter and paragraphs.
• Write the letter in an elegant and professional font the same one that you used in your resume.
• Use a font size of between 11 to 12 points.
• Align the contents of the letter to the left.
• Maintain the length of the letter at a maximum of one page.

6 Steps to Writing a Good Journalism Cover Letter

If you are looking for work as a journalist, you will want to create a cover letter that shows your journalism experience as well as your interest in and suitability for the position. The cover letter should follow all of the standard rules for writing and formatting it.

The following are the six steps to follow when writing a good journalism cover letter:

Step 1: Briefly introduce yourself

Briefly mention who you are and the purpose of the letter, which is to apply for the journalist position. A strong introduction prepares the reader for what to expect in the cover letter. Mention the position you are applying for as well as an achievement or a testament to why you are suitable for the job.

I want to apply for the editor-in-chief position at your company. My work experience is as a full-time reporter and editor at The Phoenix. In addition, I was the assistant editor of The Drape Newspaper. I have also worked as a staff reporter for Sunlight Times and as a news editor at the local print publication, The Daily Journal. As such, I believe my vast experience qualifies me as a suitable candidate for the position.

Step 2: Show that you are the perfect candidate

The body paragraphs should include information about the applicant’s related experience or credentials that are relevant to the job description . Each point should be relevant. Look at the employer’s needs and expectations in the job description before you begin writing your cover letter.

This gives you an idea of the ideal candidate the employer is looking for. Ensure to check out each organization’s specific job description and what they are looking for in an employee.

Reference your portfolio. For example, if you have worked as a reporter or columnist for your school magazine or newspaper, then be sure to mention that in your cover letter by inserting relevant links. If you have received awards or professional accomplishments in journalism, be sure to mention them.

I worked as a news reporter and editor while attending New York State University, earning Outstanding Achievement awards for my work both in my journalism career and in other professional settings. I am currently a staff reporter at the local newspaper, The Flag News. In my recent seven months there, I have been able to conduct investigations into major crimes such as mass shootings and sexual assault. My local reporting experience has also prepared me to work with ABC Inc. as a journalist on investigative projects.

Step 3: Explain why you want the position

This is one of the key sections of the letter that should be highlighted. Explain how the opportunity to work for the employer would positively impact your career and personal growth in this step. You can achieve this by referencing any of the publisher’s past articles that have caught your attention and/or interest.

Show genuine interest in the organization and indicate your intentions to stay with them for a significant period by mentioning any long-term benefits you can gain from the job, for example, networking.  You can also achieve this by expressing shared professional beliefs and shared values.

This is one that should be highlighted. Explain this step. You can achieve this by referencing any of the publisher’s past articles that have caught your attention and/or interest.

Show genuine interest in the organization and indicate your intentions to stay with them for a significant period by mentioning any long-term benefits you can gain from the job, for example, networking. You can also achieve this by expressing shared professional beliefs and shared values.

As a journalist and editor, I have developed the skills to research, write, and publish investigative reports as well as more traditional news reports and stories. I also possess excellent interpersonal communication skills . I am familiar with modern journalism practices from my experience in online media and blogging, regularly contributing to sites including The Daily Journal, Sunlight Times, Blogging for Change, and others.

Step 4: Discuss what impact you can make on them 

In the body of your letter, you should focus on a few key points that demonstrate why you can be an asset to the company. It is important to address this by using examples from previous job positions and highlighting qualifications specifically in terms of the job description.

Quantify what you can do for them by referring to the achievements in the resume. Avoid reiterating your duties in detail and focus on the impact or results of your contributions at work. You can determine what to include by identifying the challenges the employer is currently facing and the primary job requirement. 

My work has been published widely in local newspapers. I intend to produce industry-standard publications. I’m able to produce 5 columns of reports per week. My ability to convey information guarantees to attract a wide audience and retain returning readers. I can bring my expertise in article blogging to help The Mirror News transition into online publishing.

Step 5: Show how passionate you are about the job

You should establish how serious you are about performing the job in addition to wanting to work for their organization. This is a good way to demonstrate your enthusiasm, which employers look for in their employees.

Demonstrate how you are driven by your career and ensure that you show your commitment by emphasizing how your background will positively contribute to the organization. Also, show how your goals and those of the organization align.

I enjoy working with companies such as yours that support the community’s interests by promoting positive solutions to social issues. I’d like to join your organization in informing your readers and ensuring the people have a voice and medium to reach authorities.

Step 6: Incorporate a call to action and sign off

The closing paragraph should re-emphasize why you are an ideal candidate for the job and how you would like to be contacted about an interview or job offer . This should be a call to action.

You can request a call or a meeting. This demonstrates that being hired will be more valuable to the organization than to you. Then sign off the letter with a complimentary close and your name.

I am highly motivated and eager to work with you and help build your business. If you’re interested in my application, please contact me at [email protected] for an interview.

Sincerely, Cindi Gibbons

Sample Cover Letter

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the journalist position at NewsVoice Daily, as advertised on your website. With a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Springfield University and three years of experience in investigative reporting, I believe I am a strong candidate for this role.

At my current position at City Times, I have honed my skills in fact-checking, interviewing, and delivering compelling news stories under tight deadlines. My dedication to uncovering the truth and presenting it in an engaging manner has led to a 20% increase in readership for my column. I specialize in political reporting but have also covered a wide range of topics, from local events to international news.

What excites me most about the opportunity at NewsVoice Daily is your commitment to unbiased and impactful journalism. I am particularly impressed by your recent series on climate change, which not only informed the public but also initiated meaningful discussions. I am eager to bring my expertise in investigative journalism and my passion for storytelling to your esteemed publication.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team and am available for an interview at your earliest convenience. 

Jordan Smith

The cover letter provided serves as a practical example for writing a professional cover letter, specifically tailored for a journalism position. Its structure is logically divided into four distinct paragraphs, each serving a specific purpose, which provides a clear framework for conveying the necessary information. The first paragraph efficiently sets the context by stating the intent and the applicant’s relevant educational background. In the subsequent paragraphs, the focus shifts to the applicant’s professional experience and skills. Here, the writer effectively uses specific examples and quantifiable achievements, such as the increase in readership due to their contributions, which illustrates their competence and potential impact.

Key aspects to observe from this example include:

• Structured Approach: The letter is organized into an introduction, a detailed professional background, specific accomplishments, and a concluding section.
• Detail-Oriented Content: The writer provides detailed information about past experiences, demonstrating their skills and achievements.
• Relevance to Position: The letter specifically addresses the requirements and ethos of the prospective employer.
• Professional but Approachable Tone: While the language is formal and professional, it avoids being overly promotional, maintaining an informative yet approachable tone.
• Clear Conclusion: The writer ends the letter with an invitation for further discussion, which is a standard practice in cover letters.

This cover letter can be a useful guide for individuals looking to draft their cover letters for journalistic roles. It demonstrates how to present qualifications and experiences in a way that is both informative and aligned with the requirements of the prospective job.

Journalism Cover Letter Templates 

How Long Should a Journalism Cover Letter Be? 

An employer typically has limited time to go over the multiple cover letters they receive, so you should keep your cover letter to a maximum of one page. It should be clear and concise. Include a few relevant skills and noteworthy achievements to ensure the length is retained.

Key Takeaways

• A journalism cover letter is fundamentally a document that briefly introduces a candidate and their experience to the employer.
• It should have a concise introduction and body paragraphs that demonstrate your interest in the specific job, relevant skills and qualifications, and the impact you can make on the organization.
• They are often attached to CVs, which are mailed or delivered to employers.
• It should be brief, professional, and focused on attracting an employer.
• In the cover letter, you can reference the experience gained from writing news items from primary sources, conducting interviews, and editing news items for accuracy.

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How to: write a covering letter and CV

Tips from editors and HR managers on how to apply for a job in journalism

Advice from employers on how to write a CV and covering letter for a job in journalism

• Local weekly newspaper for Canterbury, the Kentish Gazette, received 40 applications for a recently advertised reporter role.
• A freelance position at Journalism.co.uk received 82 applications (more on that later).
• Money Marketing receives between 20 and 100 applications when it recruits.
• The Telegraph receives around 75 to 100 applicants for a journalism role, a more specialised position such as a business reporter role generates around 40 applications.
• The Guardian expects between 100 and 120 applications for a typical reporter role. It can be up to 300. An entry-level position generates around 600 applicatons.
• An entry level BBC job leads to several hundred applications.
• The BBC trainee scheme receives several thousand applications.

Your job is to make yourself stand out. You'll do this through demonstrating your competencies, skills, experience, creativity, awareness of deadlines and understanding of news Daniell Morrisey, career writer and BBC talent executive

• Five applicants sent a CV with no covering letter.
• Six had significant spelling or grammatical errors.
• One made a mistake in the name of the person receiving applications (naming Mr Thompson Mr Thomas).
• 48 applicants did not specify skills in job description.
• 79 made no reference to key point in job description.

Always go back to the job description as your base. Think of the core competencies as headers – and consider using them as headers Daniell Morrisey

• Do send a covering letter, even if not asked for.
• Most employers will request that you submit applications by email. Paste the covering letter into the body of the email as this is your first opportunity to grab attention.
• Consider what you write in the subject line of the email.
• Address the recipient by name. If you do not know the recruiter's name or gender then find out.
• Follow instructions.
• If you are asked not to telephone the newsroom, do not call.
• Customise your covering letter. "We can spot blanket bombing a mile off," said Thompson, managing director of Journalism.co.uk.
• Be succinct. Write in single sentence paragraphs to demonstrate your skills as a journalist.
• Ensure you check, double check and get someone else to proof read your application to avoid errors. On the immediate reject list of the Kentish Gazette were "those who got my name, the name of the paper, or the spelling of Kent towns wrong", the title's editor, Leo Whitlock, explained. "Some were very obvious spelling mistakes, others which fell foul/fowl of spell checks/cheques. These put you off from the very beginning," he added.
• Even when journalists are at a level of experience that warrants an application to a national, grammatical errors and punctuation problems are not uncommon and this "upsets the challenge of getting through to the next phase of the application", Hammond from the Telegraph said.
• "Demonstrate enthusiasm and get across your passion for writing", advises editor of Money Marketing Paul McMillan. "It comes across when someone has those attributes."
• Focus on your experience that is relevant to the role, Hammond from the Telegraph said. If it is a sports or business role, for example, concentrate on demonstrating work in that area.
• Include links to your work. None of the applicants submitting covering letters and CVs for the position at the Kentish Gazette did this but it is something that would have impressed editor Leo Whitlock.
• Make sure the links guide the editor to your best work; do not highlight second-rate work.
• Suggest story ideas for the publication.
• If you are not living close to the location of the advertised position, explain that you are prepared to relocate and suggest the required notice period.
• Be aware of location when applying to local newspapers. "Ideally they would live in the patch," according to Whitlock from the Kentish Gazette. "It's not a deal maker for me but would be for some editors."
• Do not simply send a one line covering letter saying "this is my CV".
• Do not be too descriptive, advises Whitlock. Write a covering letter as you would a news story.
• Do not criticise a would-be employer by saying "your site is crap and I can make it better", warns Thompson.
• Do not expect the HR manager or editor to research you. "You have to make your case," says Thompson.
• "If you are rejected, take the news graciously", he adds. "Don't send stroppy emails – everyone knows every one else in this industry."

Remember that a CV is that your marketing document Daniell Morrisey

• Send your CV by PDF, advises Thompson. Some newsrooms will not have Word and unusual fonts and formatting can cause problems. Use the "save as" option within Open Office or a free service such as Zamzar to convert to PDF.
• "Don't just give the titles and dates, but give examples of stories you have worked on," suggests Paul McMillan, editor of Money Marketing.
• Make your CV easy to read by including bullet points, advises Morrisey. "Make sure it is easy to scan and that your experience, qualifications and skills are quite obvious. Avoid essays and avoid negativity."
• "Remember that a CV is that your marketing document," advises career writer and BBC talent executive Morrisey. "Don't list failed exams and there is no need to go overboard in explaining why you left a previous company as those questions can be asked later on."
• Be wary of the infographic CV. There are some great examples out there – and also some terrible ones. Perhaps the best place to include this CV format is on your blog or website.
• "Think about how your CV is going to be used. It will be photocopied so if sending a hard copy, avoid unusual papers such as acetates," Morrisey advised.
• Do not be too creative with the format. "Very occasionally this can be a good idea but it can go spectacularly wrong," he said, explaining that he once received a CV on a cushion.
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Cover letters

A cover letter is a professional document that tells your interest in a particular position, highlights your qualifications and introduces your resumé. It should accompany your resumé whenever you are submitting your application materials to an employer, whether by regular mail or e-mail. Your cover letter is just as important as your resumé. It also is a sample of your writing.

Your cover letter should be:

• Targeted and tailored for each position you are applying for, not mass-produced. Mass produced generic cover letters addressed to To Whom it May Concern or Human Resources Manager will get about as much response as mail addressed to Occupant. Occasionally you have no choice but to use a general heading if you are responding to a blind job want ad that does not list a company name or address. In that case, the employer knows you have no choice.
• Personalized to the individual you will most likely be interviewing with (whenever possible)
• Accurate, error free, energetic, enthusiastic and concise
• Produced on high quality bond stationery that matches your resumé paper
• Signed by you

Also, don’t forget to:

• Match your cover letter and resumé paper
• Follow up as you specified in your cover letter

Outline of a Cover Letter

Your address City, state, zip Date

Name of contact person Title Organization Street address City, state, zip

Dear (contact person),

Opening Paragraph: Why writing? Capture interest!

• Strong opening sentences to make the reader want to continue reading.
• Name the job for which you are applying. Tell how you learned about it.
• Mention the name of a person (if any) who referred you to the organization.

Body Paragraph: Critical content section. Convince the reader of your skills.

• Acknowledge the skills required by the open position.
• State the skills/strengths you will bring to the job and that parallel those needed to fill the position.
• Give examples of skills and achievements and how they will transfer to the job.
• Comment on your knowledge of the company (its products, services or special projects) and why you are interested in working for it.

Closing Paragraph: Ask for interview and identify next step!

• Refer to enclosed resumé.
• Tell the contact person that you will call on a designated date. Also, state that you are available for a personal interview at her/his convenience.
• Make it easy for the person to contact you: list your phone number and times you can be reached. Even if it is on the resumé, list it here again.

Sincerely, (Respectfully, etc.)

(sign your name) Your name typed

Enclosures: resumé (work samples, transcript?)

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We tried TopResume's Resume Writing Service: Was it worth it?

If you’ve been looking into getting some professional help with your resume, you may have come across TopResume in your search. You may have also seen conflicting reviews about their resume writing service, some good and quite a few overwhelmingly negative.

In this article, we’ll dig deeper into TopResume and how its resume writing service works. Plus, I’ve tried the service myself so I’ll let you in on my full experience. 

Here's what we'll cover:

• What is TopResume ?
• Is TopResume a reputable company?  
• How much does TopResume cost?
• How the TopResume resume writing service works
• Is TopResume really free? 
• My experience with the paid resume rewriting service
• Overall review of my TopResume experience
• Is TopResume worth the money?
• 3 TopResume alternatives

Let’s get started.

1. What is TopResume? ↑

TopResume is a company that offers professional resume writing services, among other job search assistance such as cover letter writing, LinkedIn makeovers, and more. 

According to its website, TopResume has a team of professional writers with experience in human resources, career coaching, and job search strategy. While it has published profiles of its editorial team of three, it also says that it has over a thousand professional writers in 65 industries, though there’s no way to know who these writers are.

1.1 Is TopResume a reputable company?

Whether TopResume is a reputable company or not is up for debate. Its website does look quite legitimate and it has 3.9 stars on Trustpilot , with a vast majority of the reviews 5 stars. However, if you look up TopResume, you will find highly detailed negative reviews on Reddit and other forums. 

Later on in the article, we’ll dive deeper into the quality of service that TopResume offers and see whether the reviews have any merit.

1.2 How much does TopResume cost?

TopResume offers three standard resume writing packages, all of which include an ATS-optimized resume and a 60-day interview guarantee. As for the guarantee, it states that if you don’t get an interview with their resume within 60 days, then you can get a free rewrite.

Below is a more detailed look at the standard packages and their pricing:

• Includes an ATS-optimized resume
• Career.io premium trial
• 60-day interview guarantee 
• Career.io premium access
• 60-day interview guarantee
• Cover letter 
• Top 10% of writer network
• LinkedIn makeover

Apart from these three standard packages, TopResume also offers the “Elite Executive Priority Package”.

Priced at $699, it’s targeted toward executives and includes the following:

• Professional resume
• Cover Letter
• 2-Day Delivery
• LinkedIn Makeover
• 2 Interview Prep Sessions
• 30-Day Career.io subscription

All TopResume packages can be paid in full or in monthly installments.

You also have the option to upgrade whichever package you choose by purchasing add-ons. These add-ons include a 48-hour delivery, phone consultation with your resume writer, interview coaching, and more. 

However, looking at their website, I couldn’t find any readily published information on how much any of the add-ons cost. You’ll only see this information once you’re at the end of the questionnaire, which is the first step after buying a package.

1.3 How the TopResume resume writing process works

According to the website, here’s how TopResume’s service works:

• Fill in a questionnaire. After purchasing a package, you’ll be asked to answer a questionnaire. Some of the information you’ll be asked to provide includes your current resume, job listings that interest you, and details like your key strengths, major accomplishments, and job-search concerns.
• Get matched with a writer. You’ll receive an email when you’ve been assigned a writer. You’ll also find this information on the website which you’ll get after purchasing a package. The writer assigned to you will base their resume rewrite on the questionnaire and your old resume if you have one. But if you want to talk directly to your writer by phone, that’s a separate add-on that you’ll need to purchase.
• Get your first resume rewrite. Your first draft should arrive within 7 business days. If you want it sooner (within 48 hours), that’s yet another add-on you have to purchase. You can then give your feedback.  
• Receive your revised resume. After sending over your revision notes, your resume writer should send your revised resume within a week. Your package should include at least 2 revisions.

1.4 Is TopResume really free?

TopResume’s resume writing services are not free. They do, however, offer a free resume review service. This is the first thing you’ll find when you land on their homepage.

We’ve already reviewed this free resume review service . We found that TopResume does provide detailed feedback via email, which could be useful if you’re looking for a way to improve your resume on a budget.

2. My experience with the paid TopResume rewrite ↑

To give you a full review of TopResume’s paid resume service, I signed up for the most basic offering: the Professional Growth Resume Writing Package. 

For the test, I came up with a fictional product manager resume. I made it similar to the ones we often see from candidates using our resume coaching service . 

It could be the resume of someone who has some strong experience and wants to apply to a top company like Google or Meta. It’s of reasonable quality but I left plenty of room for improvement, as a way to test whether the TopResume rewrite would take it to the level necessary to get interview calls from top companies.

Step 1: Answer the TopResume Questionnaire

Upon purchasing a package, I received an email with the basic steps of the process. The first was to answer a questionnaire, which they’ve linked to in the email.

The first part of the questionnaire prompted me to upload my current resume. Can you use this service if you don’t have one just yet? Yes, you can proceed with the rest of the questionnaire if you tick the option “I don’t have a resume” at the bottom. For my purpose, I uploaded the fictional resume.

Then I was walked through several questions about the resume and my goals. Here are some of them:

• What is your biggest concern about your resume? (Dropdown menu with options: length, over or underqualified, employment gaps, layout, wording)
• What key strengths will you bring to your next role?
• What job listings interest you? 
• What industry or field are you interested in (dropdown of industries)
• Is there anything holding you back from landing a job in your preferred field?
• What unique skills and traits do you bring to the table? (accomplishments in each role)

This was a fairly straightforward process. It also allows you to click save and continue or go back to previous questions with the rest of your answers conveniently saved. 

At the end of the questions, I was asked if there’s anything else I wanted to add as a note to the writer. This is the part where you can make specific requests that the questionnaire might not have covered. For my purpose, I wrote: I’m applying to a few FAANG job openings and would like my resume to be competitive enough.

Afterwards, I was directed to a page where I could purchase add-ons.

Just a note about this that I found curious. If you’ll remember at the descriptions of the packages, the Starter Professional Growth Package is supposed to include a 60-day job interview guarantee. But I found that it’s included in the optional add-ons, which means it’s not yet a part of the package.

I find this misleading, as the website clearly states that the package I bought already includes the 60-day guarantee.

After I submitted everything, I had to sign up for a profile on the website. For this, I just needed to fill in a password and was directed to this page:

Step 2: Get matched with a writer

An hour and a half after filling out the resume, I received a quick intro email from my writer, Leena (we’ve changed her name to protect her privacy). No info on her background, just a note telling me that she’ll be working on my resume.

Step 3: Receive the first draft

Surprisingly, I received the first resume draft the day after I filled in the questionnaire. Based on the time stamps of the emails from TopResume, it didn’t even take 24 hours for me to fill in the resume, get matched with a writer, and receive the first draft. 

This is quite curious, as I didn’t upgrade to the 48-hour delivery add-on. So the question is, if they can deliver within 24 hours without the add-on, why offer the add-on at all?

Here’s the note from my resume writer:

And here’s the first draft of the resume:

At first glance, you’ll notice the following as the biggest difference:

• Addition of skill summary/executive summary
• Addition of area of expertise section
• Switching of header to a bigger font size and navy blue color font

Combination of block text and bullet points for each job experience

• Exceeds one page

The TopResume resume is two pages (the original is a one-pager), though the only text in the 2nd page are two lines. I think they could have fitted this on one page if they worked on the formatting properly.

It also looks similar to another TopResume resume Redditor shared on a forum. So it seems that TopResume writers are given a set template to use for all of their resume clients.

Let’s take a closer look at each of the additions:

Skill summary/executive summary:

The big block of text is what opens the resume. At first glance, it looks quite challenging to read as any big block of text. 

But reading it closely, it sounds vague and doesn’t seem to be doing a good job of answering the question “why are you the best person for the job?” as the email said. It also has two grammatical errors.

Area of expertise section:

Not all applicant tracking systems are able to parse through multiple-column resumes, so this might not be ATS-compliant as TopResume promised.

Also, even if it does pass through ATS, it seems to just repeat keywords that are already in the skill summary and the job experience sections.

According to the email, this formatting is “a strategic balance of paragraphs and bullets that work together to stand out in a quick 10-15 second review. These details are formatted differently, so your achievements stand out since they set you apart from other candidates with similar skills.” 

However, I think the big blocks of text makes it hard to read. I feel like any recruiter scanning this resume won’t readily get the information they need (relevants skills, achievements, etc.) looking at the paragraphs. They might even skip it altogether.

Also, reading the job descriptions closely, it looks like the writer simply removed each line from the bullet point and formatted them as a paragraph without changing too much.

As you will remember from the email TopResume sent, they outlined the instructions on how to send revision notes, one of which is not to use Track Changes or Comments. I’m curious why they think using either will hinder the revision process, as both seem to be a more convenient way to add comments or make changes to a file without tampering with the current format.

In my revision notes, I stated my concern about how the big blocks of text look hard to read, and that I’m wary about the Areas of Expertise section, as it seems repetitive. I also asked if we could keep the resume to a single page.

Step 4: Receive revised resume

I received the revised resume a day later. They reiterated the reasons for the sections and formats that I found questionable. They then said that the original was 1 page long, and so this time they sent a pdf version for me to see the revised version in the correct format.

The revision is not that extensive. They merely shortened the paragraphs to address my concern about the paragraphs being hard to read. Understandable, since I didn’t give any feedback on specific wordings.

It seems that they really believe in their suggested format and would not remove them or suggest an alternative, even if you’re not comfortable with them. 

3. Overall review of my TopResume experience ↑

Let’s start with the positive. I would say that TopResume’s website was fairly easy to use. Purchase and sign-up went smoothly. The entire service, from filling up the questionnaire to receiving the first and second drafts, was quicker than expected.

That said, let’s get into the weakness of the service. First, there’s no way to know exactly how the writer match was made. While I did receive an email from the writer, apart from a standard friendly introduction, she did not provide any background information on her expertise. The information is also not available on their website.

Looking at the first draft, the wording was a bit generic, and sometimes vague and wordy (e.g. “Accomplished professional harnessing over three years of experience in product management to steer product development and lifecycle.”). 

The generic quality of the resume could be because all communication is done via email. I imagine even a short phone call with the owner of the resume might help the resume writer insert some personality into their customized rewrite. They do have a phone consultation as an add-on. But if you don’t have the budget for it, you might get a resume similar to the one I received which would take more than a little tweaking to personalize.

While researching TopResume reviews, I came across the company’s Glassdoor reviews where former writers complained about how poorly they were paid (one claimed they were paid a flat fee per resume, including revisions). This may also explain why their product's quality is subpar.

Finally, I found TopResume’s inflexibility with their resume template could be a source of frustration to some. It’s perfectly understandable that they would have a signature template, but if you express apprehension about the format of the resume, they won’t suggest any other layout. 

Overall, I think that with the starter package, TopResume won’t really do much for your resume that you can’t already do on your own. 

4. Is TopResume worth the money? ↑

TopResume is not worth the money (from $149) based on my experience. Though the process was quick and efficient, the resulting resume felt generic, vague, and wordy. They also don’t provide any information about your assigned resume writer, so you have no way to verify their expertise.

While comparatively less expensive than similar services, the standard package is not cheap by any means. You may get a more personalized service with a writer on Fiverr. Or if you really want to get ahead of the competition, getting resume feedback from an expert in your field might be more worth your money.

5. 3 TopResume alternatives ↑

Here are three alternatives to TopResume that you might want to consider if you want to get outside input on your resume.

5.1 IGotAnOffer

• Pricing : $149 for a 1-hour resume review session.
• Format : 1-to-1 video call
• Reviews : 5.0 on Google, 4.96 rating on own site
• Reviewer expertise : All resume coaches have been recruiters/interviewers at top companies (Google, McKinsey, etc)
• Satisfaction guarantee: 100% refund if you're not satisfied

On IGotAnOffer, you can book a 1h resume review session with resume coaches who have worked as recruiters or interviewers at top companies. It specializes in tech , consulting , or finance , so if you're targeting a role in one of these industries, it's exactly what you need.

You can search by company, role (e.g. software engineer , PM ), specialty, timezone, etc, and book a timeslot that suits you. There are well over 200 resume coaches on the platform, so plenty to choose from.

IGotAnOffer’s resume review is priced at $149, which is the same as TopResume’s starter package. It’s a significant investment, so if you're going for a lower-paid or non-competitive role, you might prefer to try option 2.

5.2 Resume thread on Reddit

• Pricing : Free
• Format : online forum
• Reviews : not applicable
• Reviewer expertise : Varies
• Satisfaction guarantee : not applicable

This is technically not a resume "service", but it’s a useful place to go if you want to get some fresh eyes on your resume without spending money. Just post it there (you may want to anonymize it first) and after a day or so, you should have a few comments giving you ideas on how to improve it.

Of course, it's hard to tell if the people commenting really know what they're talking about, and sometimes the criticism could do with a bit more sugar-coating (!), but hey, it's free. Plus, you can gain a few tips and insights by browsing other people's resumes and the comments on those.

5.3 FindMyProfession

• Pricing : from $395 for an entry-level resume to $1095 for a federal senior executive-level resume
• Format : ATS-compatible resume rewrite with 1-week unlimited revisions
• Reviews : 4.9 on Trustpilot, 4.8 on Google
• Reviewer expertise : certified resume writers specialize in executive, C-suite, and federal government roles 
• Satisfaction guarantee: 60-day interview guarantee; full refund before commencement of service

Find My Profession is a career assistance website that specializes in reverse recruitment and resume writing. For its resume writing services, you get different tiers depending on where you’re at in your career. Unlike TopResume, Find My Profession has the profiles of their resume writers on the website, though I don’t think you can choose.

Also unlike TopResume, Find My Profession automatically includes a phone consultation with the resume writer. They also offer unlimited revisions for one week after you receive the first draft.

Their services can be pricey, with the lowest tier for an entry-level resume at $395. So it’s up to you to decide whether spending that much money is worth it based on your current career goals.

6. Get expert feedback on your resume ↑

That’s it! I hope you find our review of TopResume’s paid resume writing service useful. If you’ve yet to decide on whether a paid resume service is right for you, consider working on your resume on your own with these free guides:

• How to write a tech resume
• How to write a consulting resume
• How to write a product manager resume
• How to write a software engineering resume
• How to write a TPM/PgM resume
• How to write an engineering manager resume

Then afterwards, if you still feel you need some expert guidance on your resume, sign up for a resume review service on IGotAnOffer. Get immediate feedback on your resume from a top recruiter/coach of your choosing. 

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18 Résumé Writing Tips to Help You Stand Out

By  Allison Pohle

Updated May 11, 2021 2:15 pm ET

• A résumé isn’t just a list of every job you’ve ever had. It should demonstrate your accomplishments.
• Mirror language used in the job posting so your résumé isn’t discarded by an applicant tracking system.
• Use a clean and simple format. 

Companies increasingly  rely on software  to sort through applicants, which is why it is essential to tailor your résumé to ensure it makes the cut. Applicant tracking systems sort, scan and rank applicants by looking for keywords in applications. Although these programs can save time and money for employers, about 60% said such tools cause them to miss some qualified candidates, according to a 2016 survey of 1,200 job seekers and managers by CareerArc, a human-resources technology company, and Future Workplace, a research firm. Here’s how to make your résumé stand out to robots and humans alike. 

1. Highlight your achievements in your résumé. 

A common mistake job seekers make is believing a résumé is a recap of your career, when in reality, it should convey what you have accomplished, says Christy Noel, a career expert and author of “Your Personal Career Coach.” 

“I always say, spend less of your real estate describing your job, and more time describing your results,” says Ms. Noel.  

2. Customize your résumé.

Read over the job posting, and think about the work experience you have had that is most directly relevant to the position you are pursuing. You can leave out some past jobs and internships if the experience you had wasn’t related. Whatever you do: Don’t submit a generic résumé to dozens of postings. “Even if you have the best experience, if your résumé isn’t speaking directly to the position in which you are applying, there is a strong chance you’ll never even get an interview,” says Demisha Jennings, a certified professional résumé writer and founder and owner of She Assists LLC.  

The same applies to your cover letter. It is your chance to provide more detail on how your experience will help you succeed in the job.  Read our cover letter guide  for how to write one that makes you stand out.

3. Decide how to format your résumé.

Most of the time, a chronological résumé will work well for communicating your past experience. But, in some cases, a functional or hybrid résumé might be more appropriate.  Read more about résumé formats here.

4. Make your contact information easy to find.

Include your name, phone number, email address, city and state. It may also be appropriate to include the URL to your LinkedIn profile. You want it to be easy for hiring managers to reach out.

In addition to making it easy to connect with you, it is important to your job search that you grow your network.  Read our networking guide  for tips on how to do so.

5. Consider adding a summary. 

Many résumé templates leave space for an objective statement, outlining career goals, but that approach is outdated, says Ms. Jennings. Instead, consider a carefully worded summary. The summary is often the first place a hiring manager will look, and gives you an opportunity to introduce your skills high up on the page. You can also work in relevant keywords from the job description. “Recruiters are looking for what you can bring to the table and what you’ve done, rather than you saying, ‘I’m seeking a position,’” Ms. Jennings says. 

6. Great résumés should stand out to skim readers.

Most recruiters spend just a few seconds skimming through a résumé—with an average in one study of  7.4 seconds.  

To have the best chance of making an impression, ensure your job titles, company names and dates of employment are easy to read. The sections of your résumé should be adequately spaced, too, says Dana Leavy-Detrick, founder and director of Brooklyn Resume Studio. 

For additional ways to make a good impression on recruiters and headhunters, read  our guide on how to work with headhunters .

7. Make your résumé robot-friendly. 

Structure your résumé to meet the requirements of an applicant tracking system to give yourself the best chance of having it reach an actual human. Ms. Leavy-Detrick suggests the following:

• Optimize keywords.  Use the same words and language that are in the job description. For example, three different companies might describe the same role as “programmer,” “developer” or “software engineer.” 
• Use a straightforward format.  Avoid tables and text-based graphics, which might not get picked up by a scan of the résumé. Sans-serif fonts such as Arial or Helvetica are also best to ensure readability.
• Think about order.  When formatting each line item of work experience, list the company name first, followed by the job location (city, state), your job title, and your start and end dates. Some résumés can get lost if the dates are listed before the job title. 

8. Prioritize relevant keywords. 

Tailoring your skills to include language from the job posting is an important way to let both the applicant tracking system and, eventually, a hiring manager, see how your prior qualifications tie into the job requirements. But just because you have a résumé full of keywords doesn’t mean you’ll automatically get an interview. “The ATS isn’t there to help the job seeker, it is there to help the employer review your skills against their most important qualifications,” says Ashley Watkins, a career coach and résumé writer with Write Step Résumés LLC. 

9. Craft compelling and concise bullet points.

The goal of a résumé is to list your accomplishments, rather than every duty you performed in the role. Résumé-writing experts recommend including no more than five bullet points per prior job listed. 

• Don’t focus on tasks.  Many job seekers describe what they did every day, such as answering phones or creating marketing materials, Ms. Watkins says. “Simply copying and pasting the job description doesn’t account for the things you did great, that you did above and beyond your peers,” she says.
• Instead, explain what those tasks achieved.  Emphasize your results. Ms. Watkins suggests asking yourself “Did I save [the employer] money? Did I save time? Did I improve a process? Did I build a relationship?” These will help you format your bullet points.
• Use metrics.  Say what you achieved, then contextualize it—with figures if possible. You might not be able to put a monetary value on every accomplishment, but you can frame it by sharing details like the time it took or how many people were involved. “If you raised sales 50% in two months, that means a whole lot more than ‘I’m in charge of sales,’” Ms. Watkins says. 
• Don’t omit accomplishments that aren’t quantifiable.  Not every achievement will have metrics to show success. If there are figures, you might not always have access to them. But that shouldn’t stop you from including them, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. Perhaps you had a positive impact on the culture of an organization, or improved a struggling relationship with a client. These efforts could help to demonstrate your  soft skills.

10. Focus on transferable skills if you lack experience.

If you are applying for a job in a new field or you are an entry-level applicant and don’t have much direct experience, don’t worry. Highlight transferable skills you have developed in the past that will serve you well in the position, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. For example, you could play up leadership skills you developed participating in an extracurricular activity or time-management skills you learned in a prior job.

11. Go beyond your work history, and include all relevant experience.

If you are new to the workforce, or are job-hunting after being laid off, you could also include related experience that was outside of a traditional full-time job, says Ms. Watkins. For example, you can highlight volunteer work, consulting projects or educational training, all as part of making the case for your unique value, she says.

12. Don’t worry too much about gaps in your résumé.

The Covid-19 pandemic economy resulted in many people being laid off or furloughed. Ms. Watkins says the 2020 job market reminds her of 2008, when she worked as a recruiter. The expectation at that time, she says, was that candidates would have  gaps  on their résumés or list more short-term positions. While it isn’t necessary to directly address the gaps in your résumé, you should be  prepared to talk about them in an interview . “The focus should not be centered on the fact that you were furloughed or laid off, it should be focused on you and your skills and what you do that impacts the company’s bottom line in a positive way,” Ms. Watkins says.

While it is common to list the months and years you started and ended positions in the job history section, you could just use years. This will draw less attention to a six- or eight-month gap, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. 

13. Highlight relevant skills.

It is common to  add a skills section to your résumé , outlining expertise relevant to the position. You can include languages you speak, technical skills or courses you have done. If you lack experience, you can also complete some trainings, which you can find on LinkedIn and elsewhere, related to the job you are applying for and add the courses in this section, says Ms. Jennings.

14. Prioritize work experience over education.

The professional experience you have had is often more relevant to the position than your education history, which is why the work experience should be listed first. In the “Education” section, you should list where you attended college, if applicable, or the highest level of education you have attained. If you graduated with honors, you can flag that, but it isn’t necessary to list your GPA.

15. If you are early on in your career, a key résumé tip is to limit it to one page. 

If you are early on in your career, you should limit your résumé to one page. It is OK to start spilling onto a second page after you have eight to 10 years of experience, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. 

16. Add some color for a stylish résumé that sets you apart. 

Your résumé should look clean and professional and you should keep applicant tracking systems in mind when formatting the document. But, if it is appropriate, you can add subtle accents of color in the section headings or in bars that separate sections as a way to differentiate your résumé. Ms. Leavy-Detrick doesn’t overstress the need for good design with her clients. “But it can definitely help,” she says. “When I say design, I don’t mean crazy graphic design. I mean having a polished application,” she says. “Think of it the same way you would coming dressed to an interview, it is part of your presentation, and so many people overlook this on the résumé.”

It may be appropriate to incorporate a more creative and graphic-based layout depending on the field in which you work and where you are applying. If you are applying for a position in a creative field, and you are emailing your résumé directly to a hiring manager, then it can be appropriate to use more designs, says Ms. Jennings. But if you are applying to a large company that uses an applicant tracking system or job portal, she says it is best to avoid using graphics unless you are working with a résumé writer who can help you get your resume through the system.

17. Proofread and double-check the formatting.

You may be eager to send your résumé or submit your application, but you should take the time to first check for typos and grammatical errors. You could also have a friend or family member look over it. When you are checking for errors, be sure to double-check the formatting. Sometimes the spacing can get thrown off when you save the file, so check how it looks as a saved document and, if you can, save it as a PDF before sending. 

18. Make sure the saved file name includes your name. 

Make less work for the hiring manager by including your full name in the file name of the résumé document.

What to read next

• How to Prepare for a Job Interview
• What Questions to Ask During a Job Interview
• Common Job Interview Questions and How to Answer Them
• How to Dress for a Job Interview
• How to Write a Thank-You Email After a Job Interview  
• How to Negotiate and Counter a Job Offer
• How to Negotiate Salary for a New Job: The Do’s and Don’ts
• Severance Pay: What It Is and Why You Should Negotiate a Package Before Accepting a Job

Corrections & Amplifications Ashley Watkins is a résumé writer with Write Step Résumés LLC. An earlier version of this article incorrectly said Write Steps LLC. (Corrected on Nov. 20)

Copyright ©2024 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 87990cbe856818d5eddac44c7b1cdeb8

Appeared in the November 23, 2020, print edition as '11 Résumé Tips to Help You Get Noticed

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A resume is a marketing tool and an extension of your professional brand. An effective resume showcases your experience, achievements and strengths, relating them to a specific position by using key words and highlighting relevant experiences. Remember, there is not one “correct” resume for you to use—the best resume is the one that clearly and effectively communicates your skills, abilities and future potential.

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How to choose the best professional resume writing service

An attractive and up-to-date resume can positively impact hiring managers and lead to interview invitations. In Singapore, where the job market is highly competitive, especially in the finance, technology, and healthcare industries, having an attractive resume is crucial.

Creating a resume that meets the latest industry standards, can pass an applicant tracking system (ATS), and looks modern is no easy task. Consider getting the help of a professional resume writing service to help you build a resume that stands out in the crowd. We can help you decide whether to employ a resume-writing service and how to choose one. Here's what we'll cover:

• What is a professional resume writing service? 

Benefits of hiring professional resume writers

• How to choose the right resume writing service
• Cost of engaging a professional resume writer in Singapore 

What is a professional resume writing service?  

A resume writing service is a company or a freelance professional resume writer. They can customize your resume for a target job, update your career profile, and prepare cover letters for you. Hiring managers may receive hundreds of applicants for a single position. They usually spend an average of seven seconds on a resume. 

People may opt for resume writing services to stand out from the competition. Some job seekers use these services because they find it challenging to describe themselves objectively. You may also have little time to work on your resume or may need more interview requests. Here are some profiles of people who typically engage in writing services: 

• Fresh graduates : Graduates may use these services  as they don't have work experience  and much knowledge of industry standards.
• Mid-career switchers : People switching careers may lack industry expertise and may get the help of a resume writing service to highlight their  transferable skills . 
• Professionals : Professionals may lack the time to customise their resumes for more senior positions and turn to such services to showcase their skills and achievements. 
• Older workers : Seniors may want to stay relevant and make their resumes more stylish and current in design and formatting. 

When navigating Singapore’s competitive job market, partnering with a professional resume writer can significantly impact your application. Let’s explore the key benefits of using an expert to craft your resume.

1. Expertise and customisation

Resume writers stay current with what hiring managers in different industries expect in job seekers' experience, skill level, education, and qualities. With their in-depth understanding, they skillfully highlight strengths and achievements using the right jargon.

Customising your resume for specific job roles and industries is also essential to getting interviews. It shows the hiring manager your genuine interest in the role and necessary qualifications. 

Professional resume writers have expertise in customising resumes according to the target audience and expected role. They know how to use the right keywords and phrases in your resume to give it a high ATS ranking. They also understand which  resume format  is most ATS-friendly. 

2. Time-saving and efficiency

Looking for a job involves a lot of time and effort, from scrolling through job boards to preparing applications to getting ready for the interview. Getting a professional to prepare your important documents can be more efficient. They can deliver a customised and high-quality resume in a short turnaround time.

You can use this time to prepare for the interview by rehearsing answers to common questions instead. Professional writers can update your resume effectively with their expertise in organising and formatting information. 

How do you choose the right resume-writing service?

Going through the sea of resume-writing services can be daunting, but with a few key considerations, you can find the perfect fit. Let's explore how to make the right choice.

1. Qualifications of resume writers

When choosing a company that offers resume writing services or a freelance writer, check how long they've been in the business and if they have a positive reputation in the industry. Look for video testimonials, customer success stories, and samples on their website.

Review the "About Us" or "About Me" page to learn about their credentials and experience. Check if the company employs verified professional resume writers. 

You can also check if the writer is an accredited member of a writing organisation. Some recognised and prestigious credentials include Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) , Nationally Certified Resume Writer (NCRW) , and Academy Certified Resume Writer (ACRW).

Certified writers usually undergo training, participate in conferences, and sit for exams. This learning equips them with extensive knowledge of various industries and expertise in resume writing. 

2. Know the different types of resume writing services

Companies may offer various services according to your experience level and target job. For example, if you're a fresh graduate, you could opt for an entry-level resume. Likewise, they provide mid-career, executive and career-change resumes.

If you are applying for a government job or academic position, you should also seek speciality services. These services specialise in preparing all the documents for government job applications and may also offer interview preparation for panel interviews. 

Academic resumes often require an emphasis on your education and research publications. They're typically longer and targeted towards programmes or researchers you hope to join or work with. Here's a sample resume a professional writer may create: 

3. Understand the process

Contact the company or writer to inquire about the process. A personalised process usually yields better results than a one-size-fits-all approach. Professional services usually require an initial consultation, during which the writer gathers information about your education, career history, accomplishments, skills, and career goals. 

In Singapore, it's beneficial to look for services that understand the local job market, such as the importance of including relevant qualifications like the Singapore Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ) and experience with multinational corporations (MNCs) or government-linked companies (GLCs).

They may also ask you about the industry in which you want to work. This information helps them tailor your resume to highlight your strengths. Then, they may request additional information, such as previous resumes, job descriptions of target roles, and certifications.

Ensure the writer has an effective communication policy. Some packages include phone consultations. 

After gathering your information, they usually provide a first draft. You may then review the resume and request revisions. Find out how many revisions you can request and the turnaround time for each one.

The writer usually professionally formats the final document and optimises it for ATS. You should then receive a printable version and a digital copy. 

4. Compare pricing and packages

Resume writing services prices can vary, so get clear information about what the package includes. Some packages may contain cover letters, profile optimisation, thank-you letters, and a resume.

Find out how many revisions you can have and the turnaround time. For example, some services offer a maximum of two revisions and a 24-hour turnaround time. 

If a service costs very little, you may receive a lack of personalisation or quality. Consider what you need and how much you're willing to spend. See this service as an investment for your career and choose a high-quality service to increase your chances of getting interviews.

5. Guarantee and support

Some services offer satisfaction guarantees or unlimited revisions until you're happy with the final product. For example, some companies offer a 60-day guarantee. This provision may mean they'll rewrite your resume for free or refund the full amount if you don't get an interview during the guarantee period.

After delivering the resume, check if your service provides support, such as job application or interview tips. Some companies may provide advanced career consultations and interview preparation services. 

6. Personal fit

Finally, choose someone you're comfortable with. They should understand your career goals and commit to customising a resume that accurately reflects your skills and accomplishments. You should feel comfortable communicating with them and trust they'll do well. 

Cost of engaging a professional resume writer in Singapore

Comprehensive packages that include additional services and guarantees tend to cost more. The cost also varies depending on whether you want to go for a company or work with a freelance resume writer.

Here's a comparison table showcasing established professional resume writing services in Singapore, what they include in their packages, and the associated costs: 

Bottom line

Using professional resume writing services can be a valuable investment. You can get a personalised, effective, and ATS-friendly resume that helps you land an interview for your target job. In today's highly competitive job market, such services can help you stand out.

Consider whether you need this service based on your career goals and professional level. Also, consider how much you're willing to spend and the specific services that might benefit you. 

Here are answers to common questions about resume writing services: 

• Do I need a professional resume-writing service?  ⁠ If you're aiming for a promotion, getting a professional to create a good resume that features your latest accomplishments and top skills might benefit you. ⁠You may also need this service if you still need to secure interviews or have below-average writing skills. Professional resume writers can also deal with employment gaps and highlight your transferable skills if you're switching careers. 
• Should I use a professional resume writing service or AI to write my resume?  ⁠ AI tools can help you create a complete resume in a few minutes. It can be an excellent starting point for inspiration, especially if you're new to the job market, changing careers, or returning to work after a long period. ⁠AI tools like ChatGPT can generate a template you can personalise for a specific position. It can also suggest relevant keywords to make your resume ATS-friendly.  ⁠The drawback is that recruiters may notice the use of AI, which could lead to rejection. A professional resume writing service provides a human touch and a high level of personalisation that AI can't match. ⁠If you're not keen on getting professional help, you could use AI as a source of inspiration and a starting point. Customise the AI-generated template and check for spelling, grammar, repetition, and inaccuracies. Then, run it through a plagiarism checker. 
• How can I ensure I'm choosing a reputable resume-writing service? ⁠ Review the testimonies on the service's website and request samples to check the quality of its work. If you're working with a writer directly, check their online presence. They should have an established website, an up-to-date professional profile, and a presence on other social media platforms. ⁠For Singapore-based services, looking for local reviews on platforms like Seedly is beneficial, as it provides community-driven insights and reviews on various services. ⁠Look out for credentials from professional associations for resume writers, such as the National Resume Writers Association and the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches. ⁠These organisations provide training for resume writers and usually require them to undergo assessments before awarding certifications. In Singapore, relevant local credentials include certifications from organisations like the Institute for Human Resource Professionals (IHRP). ⁠Seek reviews on Yelp, Google, or other review sites. You can also ask your colleagues, friends, or relevant professional associations for recommendations.
• What should I do if I'm not satisfied with my professional resume? ⁠ Ensure you understand your package and read the fine print before signing up. Check how many revisions the company provides and request one if necessary. The company may offer a refund if you're unhappy or have no interviews within a certain time frame. 
• Are professional resume writing services beneficial for those without extensive work experience? ⁠Yes, they're helpful even if you're a fresh graduate and need a new resume. They can help you highlight your skills, certifications, and academic accomplishments to compensate for your lack of work experience. 
• How often should I update my professional resume? ⁠ It's best to update your resume once every three months and after each performance review. Consider your recent projects and performance-based accomplishments and include them with tangible evidence.

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