Crafting a great cover letter requires careful thought, attention to detail, and a clear sense of purpose. One of the most overlooked aspects of the cover letter is the closing paragraph — yet it is also one of the most critical. How a job seeker ends their cover letter can greatly impact the hiring manager’s impression, either leaving a memorable final note or weakening an otherwise strong application.
TLDR:
Ending a cover letter professionally includes demonstrating gratitude, reinforcing interest, and including a strong call to action. The conclusion should match the tone of the overall letter, avoiding clichés and being direct yet courteous. A well-written sign-off followed by a professional signature ties everything together. The final paragraph is an opportunity to leave the employer with anticipation to hear more.
Why the Ending Matters
A cover letter’s ending is like the firm handshake in a job interview — it leaves a lasting final impression. Many applicants spend most of their time perfecting the introduction and body, without giving the closing much thought. But in a world of fast readers and short attention spans, what a recruiter reads last can leave the deepest mark. This closing should tie together the candidate’s interest, highlight their enthusiasm, and nudge the employer to take the next step.
Key Components of a Professional Cover Letter Ending
Ending a cover letter professionally requires more than a simple “Thank you for your time.” The final section should contain a few essential elements to ensure it hits the mark:
- Gratitude: Express appreciation for the reader’s time and consideration.
- Reinforced Interest: Reiterate enthusiasm for the position and the organization.
- Call to Action: Politely suggest the next steps, typically expressing a desire to discuss further in an interview.
- Professional Sign-Off: End with a courteous sign-off and your full name.
1. Express Gratitude
Always thank the hiring manager for taking the time to review your application. This demonstrates professionalism and basic courtesy. It’s a small gesture, but it can go a long way in showing your respect for their time.
Example: “Thank you for considering my application. I appreciate your time and attention.”
2. Reiterate Enthusiasm and Fit
Before closing, reinforce your enthusiasm for both the role and the company. Mention again how your qualifications align with the company’s needs, without repeating your entire letter.
Example: “I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to XYZ Corporation with my background in digital marketing and project management.”
3. Include a Clear Call to Action
The final paragraph should subtly prompt the employer to move forward with your application — ideally to invite you for an interview. Avoid passive or overly confident language; instead, express eagerness to continue the conversation.
Example: “I look forward to the chance to discuss how I can support your team’s upcoming projects.”
4. Use the Correct Sign-Off
The way one signs off a cover letter sets the tone for professionalism. Use traditional and respectful options such as:
- Sincerely
- Best regards
- Respectfully
Avoid casual closings like “Cheers,” “Thanks again,” or just your name. After the sign-off, leave a space and then type your full name. If submitting a hard copy, a handwritten signature above the typed name is also standard.
What to Avoid at the End of a Cover Letter
Even strong candidates can fall into some common traps when finishing a cover letter. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:
- Being Too Vague: Phrases like “Hope to hear from you” lack conviction and may feel noncommittal.
- Sounding Desperate: Avoid overly eager wording such as “I’ll take any opportunity” or “Please call me anytime, day or night.”
- Repeating the Resume: Don’t summarize your experiences again. That’s not the function of the closing paragraph.
- Errors and Typos: A single mistake at the end can affect the entire impression. Proofread carefully.
Examples of Effective Cover Letter Closings
To illustrate the concepts described above, here are three sample ending paragraphs suitable for varying tones and industries:
Formal Professional Role (Law, Finance)
“Thank you for the opportunity to apply for the Associate Analyst position. I am confident my analytical skills and two years of experience in risk management will make a meaningful contribution to your team. I would be honored to discuss how my background can meet your department’s strategic goals. Sincerely, John Doe”
Creative Industry (Marketing, Design)
“I appreciate your consideration of my application for the Social Media Coordinator role. I would welcome the opportunity to share how my creative mindset and data-driven strategies can enhance your online presence. Let’s connect soon to discuss the next steps. Best regards, Jane Smith”
Entry-Level or Career Switch
“Thank you for your time and attention in reviewing my application. As someone passionate about transitioning into UX design, I am excited by the mission of your company, and I welcome the chance to bring a fresh perspective to the role. I hope we’ll have the opportunity to speak further. Respectfully, Alex Martin”
Final Tips for a Polished Cover Letter Closing
- Mirror the tone of the job description. If the company uses a formal tone, respond in kind. For relaxed, creative environments, a more expressive closing may suit you better.
- Custom-tailor each ending to the company or position. Avoid generic statements that could apply to any job.
- Read your conclusion out loud to ensure it sounds natural and sincere.
- Leave the reader wanting more by being assertive but not aggressive.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ending a Cover Letter
1. Should I include my phone number and email again at the end?
Not typically. Your contact information is already provided in your letterhead or resume. However, if you want to ensure convenience, you can include it under your signature.
2. Is it okay to mention availability for interviews?
Yes, but keep it brief. For example, say “I would be available to meet at your earliest convenience” or “Available for interviews during weekdays.”
3. How long should the closing paragraph be?
One short paragraph (2–4 sentences) is ideal. You want to leave a strong impression without tiring the reader at the end of your letter.
4. Can humor be used in the closing?
Generally, it’s best to avoid humor unless you’re absolutely sure of the company’s culture and that subtle humor will be received well. When in doubt, keep it professional.
5. Is it necessary to include a handwritten signature?
If you’re submitting a physical cover letter, yes — add a handwritten signature above your typed name. For digital submissions, typing your name is sufficient, though some candidates use a digital signature.
A thoughtful closing is one of the best ways to stand out in a competitive job market. By ending your cover letter professionally and confidently, you leave employers with an impression of competence and courtesy — traits that every manager values in a potential hire.