The final paragraph of a cover letter should clearly state your enthusiasm for the role, summarize your key qualification, and prompt the reader to take the next step (usually an interview or a phone call). It typically runs 2–4 sentences and ends with a professional sign-off like “Sincerely” or “Best regards.”
Why the Ending Matters
Recruiters and hiring managers often skim cover letters, reading the opening and the closing most carefully. A strong ending leaves a positive final impression and can tip the decision toward interviewing you. It is your last chance to show confidence, fit, and professionalism. A weak or generic ending—like simply “I look forward to hearing from you”—can make you seem passive or uninterested.
Core Components of an Effective Ending
An effective closing paragraph typically includes three elements:
- Reiteration of interest and fit: Briefly restate why you are excited about the role and how your skills align with the company’s needs.
- Call to action: Politely suggest a next step, such as an interview or a conversation, and indicate your availability.
- Professional sign-off: Use a standard closing like “Sincerely,” “Best regards,” or “Thank you for your consideration,” followed by your name.
For example: “I am eager to bring my project management experience to your team and would welcome the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your upcoming product launch. I am available for an interview at your convenience and can be reached at (555) 123-4567. Thank you for your time and consideration.”
How to Tailor the Ending to the Job
The best endings are customized to the specific job and company. Avoid a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, reference something specific from the job description or the company’s recent work. For instance, if the job emphasizes data analysis, mention your track record with data-driven decision-making. If the company just announced a new initiative, link your skills to that project. This shows you have done your homework and are genuinely interested in this particular role.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Several pitfalls can weaken your closing paragraph:
- Being too passive: Phrases like “I hope you will consider me” sound uncertain. Use confident language like “I am confident” or “I look forward to.”
- Overly long closings: Repeating your entire resume wastes the reader’s time. Keep it concise.
- Ending without a call to action: If you don’t suggest a next step, the reader may not know what to do.
- Using clichés: “I am a hard worker” or “I think outside the box” are overused and add little value.
- Forgetting contact information: Always include your phone number and email in the closing or in the signature block.
Examples of Strong Closing Paragraphs
Here are a few examples for different situations:
For a corporate job: “I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my marketing expertise to your team and would love to discuss how I can help drive your next campaign. I am available for an interview next week and can be reached at (555) 987-6543. Thank you for your consideration.”
For a creative role: “I would love to bring my design sensibility and storytelling skills to your studio. I am happy to share my portfolio in more detail and am available for a conversation at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your time.”
For a career changer: “My background in customer service has given me strong communication and problem-solving skills, which I am eager to apply to a project management role. I would welcome the chance to discuss how my transferable skills can benefit your team. I am available for an interview and can be reached at (555) 234-5678.”
Template for the Closing Paragraph
[Restate your interest in the role and the company]
[Summarize your most relevant qualification or accomplishment]
[Call to action: suggest an interview or a call, and state your availability]
[Thank the reader for their time and consideration]
Sincerely,
_________________________
Your Name
Phone: ___________________
Email: ___________________
Sample (fictional):
I am very interested in the Marketing Coordinator position at your company and believe my experience with social media campaigns and event planning would be a great fit. I would love to discuss how I can contribute to your team. I am available for an interview any weekday afternoon and can be reached at (555) 555-0199. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
_________________________
Alex Johnson
Phone: (555) 555-0199
Email: alex.johnson@email.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I include a call to action in the last paragraph?
Yes, it is generally recommended. A call to action, such as requesting an interview or expressing your availability, shows initiative and makes it easier for the employer to respond. It also demonstrates that you are serious about the position.
How long should the closing paragraph be?
Keep it to 2–4 sentences. It should be concise and to the point, summarizing your interest and next steps without repeating the rest of the letter. A long closing can dilute your message.
What is the best sign-off for a cover letter?
Common professional sign-offs include “Sincerely,” “Best regards,” and “Thank you for your consideration.” Choose one that matches the tone of the company and the letter. For more formal industries, “Sincerely” is safe; for creative fields, “Best regards” or “Warm regards” may be more appropriate.
Can I end with “I look forward to hearing from you”?
Yes, but it is a bit passive. It is better to pair it with a more active statement, such as “I look forward to discussing my qualifications with you in an interview.” This shows confidence and enthusiasm.
Should I mention my availability in the closing?
Yes, it is helpful. Mentioning that you are available for an interview or a call at their convenience shows flexibility and makes scheduling easier. It also reinforces your interest in moving forward.
What if I don’t have a specific contact name?
If you don’t have a name, use a general salutation like “Dear Hiring Manager” and in the closing, you can still refer to “your team” or “your organization.” Avoid using “To Whom It May Concern” as it is outdated and impersonal.