How to End a Cover Letter: 30+ Professional Examples & Closing Tips

TL;DR - Quick Answer

End your cover letter with a confident call-to-action, express gratitude, and use a professional closing salutation like "Sincerely" or "Best regards." The best cover letter endings accomplish three things: they restate your enthusiasm for the role, invite the hiring manager to take the next step (like scheduling an interview), and leave a memorable final impression. Avoid weak endings like "I hope to hear from you" and instead use confident language like "I welcome the opportunity to discuss how my experience can contribute to [Company]'s success."

Your closing paragraph is your last chance to make an impression before the hiring manager decides whether to contact you. A strong ending can transform a good cover letter into one that lands interviews, while a weak ending can undermine everything that came before it.

Key Takeaways

• Include a clear call-to-action: Tell the hiring manager what you want to happen next—whether it's an interview, a phone call, or a meeting.

• Express genuine enthusiasm: Reaffirm your interest in the specific role and company, not just any job.

• Thank them appropriately: A brief expression of gratitude shows professionalism without being excessive.

• Use a professional closing: "Sincerely," "Best regards," or "Thank you" are safe, professional choices.

• Match your tone to the company: More formal for traditional industries, slightly warmer for startups and creative fields.

Introduction: Why Your Cover Letter Ending Matters More Than You Think

You've crafted a compelling opening hook. You've highlighted your most impressive achievements. You've demonstrated how your skills align perfectly with the job requirements. But then you hit the final paragraph and freeze. How do you end a cover letter in a way that leaves a lasting impression and motivates the hiring manager to pick up the phone?

According to a 2024 study by TheLadders, hiring managers spend an average of 7.4 seconds on an initial resume scan—and they apply similar rapid-fire evaluation to cover letters. Research shows that the first and last paragraphs of any document receive the most attention due to the psychological principles of primacy and recency effects. This means your closing paragraph carries disproportionate weight in the hiring manager's memory.

A CareerBuilder survey found that 45% of hiring managers have rejected candidates specifically because of weak or inappropriate cover letter closings. Common mistakes include being too passive, forgetting to include contact information, or using overly casual language that doesn't match the company culture.

In this comprehensive guide, you'll find 30+ cover letter closing examples across different industries, experience levels, and situations. Whether you're wondering how to end a cover letter for your first job or crafting an executive-level application, you'll find templates and strategies that work. We'll also cover what to avoid and how to tailor your closing to different contexts.

The Anatomy of a Perfect Cover Letter Ending

Before diving into examples, let's understand what makes a cover letter closing effective. The ideal ending contains several key components that work together to create a compelling finish.

The Four Essential Components

1. Enthusiasm Restatement

Briefly reaffirm your genuine interest in the specific role and company. This isn't generic excitement about "the opportunity"—it's targeted enthusiasm that shows you've done your research and truly want this particular position.

2. Value Proposition Summary

In one sentence, remind the reader of the key value you bring. This isn't a rehash of your entire letter—it's a quick reinforcement of your strongest selling point.

3. Call-to-Action

The most critical element. Tell the hiring manager exactly what you want to happen next. Be specific and confident—you're not begging for consideration, you're inviting them to take the logical next step.

4. Professional Gratitude

A brief thank-you that acknowledges their time without being excessive. One line is sufficient.

Cover Letter Closing Structure

Professional Closing Salutations: Which One to Use

The closing salutation is the formal sign-off before your name. While it might seem like a small detail, using the wrong one can undermine an otherwise strong letter. Here's a comprehensive guide to choosing the right closing.

Most Professional Closings (Safe for Any Industry)

Closings for Creative Industries

Closings to Avoid

30+ Cover Letter Closing Examples by Category

Now let's dive into specific examples you can adapt for your own cover letters. Understanding how to format a cover letter properly includes mastering the closing paragraph, which should flow naturally into your sign-off.

Standard Professional Closings

These closings work for most traditional industries and formal applications:

1. "I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name] and would welcome the chance to discuss how my experience in [specific skill] can support your team's goals. Thank you for your time and consideration."

2. "I would be thrilled to bring my [X years] of experience in [industry] to [Company Name]. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your continued success."

3. "Thank you for considering my application. I am confident that my background in [specific area] makes me a strong fit for this role, and I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further."

4. "I am eager to bring my passion for [industry/field] and my proven track record of [specific achievement] to [Company Name]. I look forward to speaking with you about this exciting opportunity."

5. "Your commitment to [company value or initiative] resonates deeply with my professional values. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to these important goals."

Confident, Action-Oriented Closings

For candidates who want to project confidence and take initiative:

1. "I am confident that I can make an immediate impact on your team and would welcome the opportunity to discuss my ideas for [specific project or initiative mentioned in job posting]. Please feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience."

2. "I will follow up next week to discuss how my experience aligns with your needs. In the meantime, please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions."

3. "I am ready to hit the ground running and contribute to [specific company goal]. I look forward to discussing the value I can bring to your organization."

4. "My track record of [specific achievement] demonstrates my ability to deliver results. I am eager to bring this same level of performance to [Company Name] and would welcome a conversation at your convenience."

5. "I am available for an interview at your convenience and am excited to discuss how my [specific skills] can help [Company Name] achieve its objectives."

Entry-Level and Recent Graduate Closings

For those just starting their careers, these closings emphasize enthusiasm and potential. For more guidance, check out our entry-level cover letter example.

1. "While I am early in my career, my dedication to [field] and my recent accomplishments in [academic achievement or internship] demonstrate my potential to contribute meaningfully to your team. I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss how I can grow with [Company Name]."

2. "I am eager to apply my academic knowledge and fresh perspective to real-world challenges at [Company Name]. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the opportunity to demonstrate my potential."

3. "My internship at [Previous Company] taught me the value of [skill], which I am excited to bring to [Company Name]. I would welcome the chance to discuss how my energy and enthusiasm can benefit your team."

4. "As a recent graduate with a passion for [industry], I am excited about the possibility of starting my career at [Company Name]. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my skills and enthusiasm can contribute to your team."

5. "I may be new to the workforce, but my [relevant coursework/projects/certifications] have prepared me to make an immediate contribution. I am eager to learn and grow with your team."

Executive and Senior-Level Closings

For leadership positions, closings should reflect strategic thinking and proven results. Our executive cover letter example provides more context.

1. "My experience leading teams of [X] people and driving [specific metric] growth positions me uniquely to address the challenges outlined in your job description. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my vision for [department/division] and how I can contribute to [Company Name]'s continued success."

2. "Having successfully [major achievement, e.g., 'led a $50M digital transformation'], I understand the strategic priorities facing [Company Name]. I look forward to discussing how my leadership experience can drive similar results for your organization."

3. "I am particularly drawn to [Company Name]'s commitment to [specific initiative or value]. My track record of [relevant achievement] aligns directly with these goals, and I am eager to contribute at the executive level."

4. "The opportunity to lead [specific initiative] at [Company Name] is compelling, and I am confident my experience in [relevant area] would enable me to make an immediate strategic impact. I look forward to a conversation about your vision for this role."

5. "With [X] years of executive experience in [industry], I have developed a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing organizations like [Company Name]. I would be pleased to share my perspective and discuss how I can contribute to your strategic objectives."

Career Change Closings

When transitioning to a new field, emphasize transferable skills and genuine motivation. Our guide on how to write a cover letter for a career change provides additional strategies.

1. "While my background is in [previous field], my transferable skills in [specific skills] and my genuine passion for [new field] make me an excellent candidate for this transition. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my unique perspective can benefit your team."

2. "My decision to transition from [previous career] to [new career] is driven by my deep interest in [aspect of new field]. I am confident that my experience in [transferable skill] will enable me to contribute meaningfully from day one."

3. "The skills I developed in [previous role]—including [specific skills]—translate directly to the requirements of this position. I am excited about the opportunity to apply my experience in a new context and would appreciate the chance to discuss this further."

4. "Transitioning from [previous field] to [new field] represents a deliberate step toward aligning my career with my passion for [specific interest]. I am eager to bring my [transferable skills] to [Company Name] and would value the opportunity to discuss my qualifications."

5. "My diverse background—spanning [previous field] and now [new field]—gives me a unique perspective that can benefit [Company Name]. I look forward to discussing how my varied experience can contribute to your team's success."

Industry-Specific Closings

Different industries have different expectations. Here are tailored examples:

Technology:

1. "I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name]'s innovative work in [specific technology/product]. My experience with [relevant technologies] and my passion for building scalable solutions would enable me to make an immediate impact. I look forward to discussing how I can help drive your technical initiatives forward."

Healthcare: (See our nursing cover letter example for more)

1. "Your hospital's commitment to patient-centered care aligns perfectly with my nursing philosophy. I would be honored to bring my [X] years of experience in [specialty] to your team and would welcome the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your mission of exceptional patient care."

Marketing: (See our marketing manager cover letter example)

1. "The creative campaigns I've developed have generated [specific metrics, e.g., '3M+ impressions' or '150% ROI']. I am eager to bring this results-driven approach to [Company Name]'s marketing efforts and would love to discuss ideas for elevating your brand presence."

Education: (See our teacher cover letter example)

1. "My passion for student success and my experience implementing [specific teaching methodology] would enable me to contribute meaningfully to [School Name]'s educational mission. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how I can support your students' growth and achievement."

Finance:

1. "My analytical skills and experience managing portfolios worth [amount] have prepared me to add value from day one. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my quantitative approach can support [Company Name]'s investment objectives."

Remote Job Application Closings

For remote positions, emphasize self-motivation and communication skills. Check our remote job cover letter example for more tips.

1. "Having worked remotely for [X] years, I have developed strong self-management and virtual collaboration skills that enable me to be productive and communicative regardless of location. I am excited about the flexibility of this role and would welcome the chance to discuss how I can contribute to your distributed team."

2. "I thrive in remote work environments and am adept at using tools like [Slack, Zoom, Asana, etc.] to maintain clear communication and stay aligned with team goals. I look forward to discussing how I can be an effective remote contributor to [Company Name]."

Call-to-Action Formulas That Work

The call-to-action (CTA) is the most important element of your closing paragraph. It transforms your letter from a passive statement of qualifications into an active request for engagement. Here are proven formulas:

The Direct Request

"I would welcome the opportunity to [specific action] and am available [when you're available]."

Example: "I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications in an interview and am available at your earliest convenience."

The Value-Add Request

"I am eager to share [specific value you'll bring] and would appreciate the chance to [action]."

Example: "I am eager to share my ideas for improving customer retention rates and would appreciate the chance to discuss them with you in person."

The Proactive Follow-Up

"I will follow up [specific timeframe] to [action]. In the meantime, [offer]."

Example: "I will follow up next Tuesday to discuss the opportunity further. In the meantime, please feel free to contact me with any questions."

Note: Use this approach carefully—it's assertive and works best for sales or business development roles where initiative is valued.

The Mutual Benefit Request

"I believe my [qualification] can help [Company Name] achieve [goal], and I would welcome the opportunity to discuss this further."

Example: "I believe my experience in data analytics can help Acme Corp reduce customer churn by 20%, and I would welcome the opportunity to discuss this further."

CTA Strength Comparison

What Comes After the Closing Paragraph?

Once you've written your closing paragraph, there are a few more elements to include before you're done. Understanding the complete structure of a cover letter ensures you don't miss any crucial components.

The Sign-Off Line

After your closing paragraph, add your chosen salutation followed by a comma:

Sincerely,

Your Signature

For printed letters, leave 3-4 lines of space for your handwritten signature, then type your full name.

For digital submissions, simply type your full name (you can optionally add a digital signature image).

Contact Information

Include your contact details below your name:

• Phone number

• Professional email address

• LinkedIn profile (optional but recommended)

• Portfolio link (if relevant)

Complete Closing Example

Here's how a complete cover letter ending looks:

I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to Acme Corp's expansion into the European market. My experience leading international teams and my fluency in three languages position me to make an immediate impact on your global initiatives. I would welcome the chance to discuss how my skills and experience align with your goals.

Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely,

Jane Smith

(555) 123-4567

jane.smith@email.com

linkedin.com/in/janesmith

Common Cover Letter Closing Mistakes to Avoid

Understanding what not to do is just as important as knowing what works. Here are the most common mistakes that can undermine an otherwise strong cover letter:

1. Being Too Passive

Weak: "I hope to hear from you soon."

Strong: "I welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications in an interview."

Passive language makes you sound uncertain about your qualifications. Hiring managers want candidates who project confidence.

2. Being Too Aggressive

Too aggressive: "I expect to hear from you by Friday."

Balanced: "I am available at your convenience and look forward to the opportunity to speak with you."

There's a fine line between confidence and arrogance. Avoid making demands or setting ultimatums.

3. Repeating Your Entire Resume

Your closing should briefly reinforce your value, not rehash everything you've already said. One sentence summarizing your strongest qualification is sufficient.

4. Using Generic Language

Generic: "I am excited about this opportunity."

Specific: "I am excited about the opportunity to lead Acme Corp's new data analytics initiative."

Generic closings suggest you're sending the same letter to every company. Tailor your closing to each specific role.

5. Forgetting the Call-to-Action

Every cover letter needs a clear CTA. Don't leave the hiring manager wondering what you want to happen next.

6. Apologizing or Being Self-Deprecating

Avoid: "I know I may not have as much experience as other candidates, but..."

Better: "My unique combination of [skills] positions me to contribute meaningfully to your team."

Never draw attention to perceived weaknesses. Focus on your strengths and what you bring to the table.

7. Using Inappropriate Tone

Too casual: "Can't wait to chat!"

Too formal: "I humbly beseech you to consider my application."

Just right: "I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your team."

Match your tone to the company culture while maintaining professionalism.

How to Customize Your Closing for Different Situations

Different application contexts call for different approaches. Here's how to adapt your closing:

When You Have a Referral

If someone at the company referred you, mention it in your closing to reinforce the connection:

"As John Smith suggested when he referred me for this position, I believe my experience in data analytics would be valuable to your team. I look forward to discussing this opportunity and am happy to coordinate through John or directly with your team."

When Following Up on a Previous Meeting

If you met the hiring manager at a conference or networking event:

"It was a pleasure meeting you at the Tech Summit last week. Our conversation about [topic] reinforced my excitement about this role. I look forward to continuing our discussion about how I can contribute to [Company Name]."

When Applying to Your Dream Company

Express genuine enthusiasm without being excessive:

"Working at [Company Name] has been a professional goal of mine since I first learned about your innovative approach to [specific thing they do]. I am confident my skills in [area] would enable me to contribute meaningfully to your continued success."

When You're Overqualified

Address the elephant in the room:

"While my experience exceeds the stated requirements, I am genuinely excited about this opportunity to [specific aspect that appeals to you]. I see this role as a chance to [what you hope to achieve], and I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my extensive background can benefit your team."

When Relocating for the Position

Proactively address location concerns:

"I am fully committed to relocating to [City] for this opportunity and am prepared to do so at my own expense. I am available for video interviews at your convenience and can travel for in-person meetings as needed."

Expert Insights on Cover Letter Closings

"The closing paragraph is where candidates most often drop the ball. After reading hundreds of cover letters, I can tell you that the ones that stand out are those that end with confidence and a clear call-to-action. Don't just tell me you're interested—tell me what you want to happen next."

— Lily Zhang, Career Counselor at MIT and Career Expert at The Muse

This expert perspective underscores the importance of ending your cover letter with intention. As you craft your closing, remember that it's not just about wrapping up—it's about launching the next phase of the conversation.

Putting It All Together: Complete Closing Paragraph Templates

Here are complete templates you can customize for your own applications:

Template 1: Standard Professional

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my [X years] of experience in [field/skill] to [Company Name]. I am confident that my background in [specific achievement or skill] would enable me to contribute meaningfully to your team. I welcome the opportunity to discuss how my qualifications align with your needs and am available for an interview at your convenience.

Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Template 2: Enthusiastic but Professional

I am genuinely enthusiastic about the possibility of joining [Company Name] and contributing to [specific initiative or goal]. My track record of [specific achievement] demonstrates my ability to deliver results, and I am eager to bring this same level of dedication to your team. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications and learn more about how I can support your objectives.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Template 3: Confident and Direct

My experience in [specific area] has prepared me to make an immediate impact at [Company Name]. I am ready to bring my skills in [key skills] to your team and am confident in my ability to [specific outcome you can deliver]. I would welcome a conversation about how I can contribute to [Company Name]'s continued success.

Kind regards,

[Your Name]

Key Statistics on Cover Letter Effectiveness

Understanding the data behind cover letters can help you appreciate why endings matter:

How AI Can Help You Craft the Perfect Closing

Writing the perfect cover letter ending can be challenging, especially when you're applying to multiple positions. That's where AI-powered tools can help. Our AI cover letter generator analyzes job descriptions and your resume to create personalized, ATS-friendly cover letters with compelling closings tailored to each application.

Benefits of using AI for cover letter creation:

• Saves time by generating tailored content in seconds

• Ensures consistency across multiple applications

• Optimizes for ATS by including relevant keywords (learn more about creating ATS-friendly cover letters)

• Provides professional templates that follow best practices

• Reduces writer's block with instant suggestions

You can also explore our cover letter templates and cover letter examples for more inspiration.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cover Letter Endings

How long should a cover letter closing be?

Your closing paragraph should be 2-4 sentences, or about 50-100 words. It should be long enough to include enthusiasm, a brief value statement, and a call-to-action, but short enough to maintain impact. For more on length, see how long should a cover letter be.

Should I mention salary expectations in my closing?

No, avoid mentioning salary in your cover letter closing unless the job posting specifically requests it. Salary negotiations should happen later in the hiring process after you've demonstrated your value.

Is "Yours sincerely" too formal?

"Yours sincerely" is considered somewhat old-fashioned in modern business correspondence, particularly in the US. "Sincerely" or "Best regards" are more contemporary choices that maintain professionalism.

Should I include my phone number in the closing paragraph?

Your contact information should appear below your signature, not in the closing paragraph itself. The closing paragraph should focus on your value proposition and call-to-action.

How do I end a cover letter when I don't know the hiring manager's name?

Use a general professional greeting in your opening (e.g., "Dear Hiring Manager") and a standard closing salutation like "Sincerely" or "Best regards." The closing paragraph itself doesn't change based on whether you know the recipient's name. For more guidance, see how to address a cover letter without a name.

Can I use the same closing for every cover letter?

While you can use a similar structure, you should customize the specifics for each application. Mention the company name, reference specific aspects of the role or company, and tailor your value proposition to the job requirements.

What if I'm sending my cover letter via email?

The closing remains the same for email submissions. The only difference is that you might include your contact information in an email signature block rather than below your typed name. See our guide on how to email a resume and cover letter for more tips.

Should I thank them multiple times?

One brief thank-you is sufficient. Multiple expressions of gratitude can come across as excessive or insincere. A simple "Thank you for considering my application" or "Thank you for your time" is adequate.

How do I end a cover letter for an internal position?

When applying internally, you can be more direct since the hiring manager already knows you. Reference your existing relationship with the company and express enthusiasm for growing within the organization:

"Having contributed to [Company Name] for [X years], I am excited about the opportunity to expand my impact in this new role. I welcome the chance to discuss how my institutional knowledge and proven track record can benefit the team."

What if I was referred by someone at the company?

Definitely mention the referral in your closing if you haven't already in your opening. Employee referrals carry significant weight:

"As Sarah Johnson in your marketing department suggested, I believe my experience in content strategy would be a great fit for this role. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your team."

Is it okay to say I'm the perfect candidate?

Avoid absolute claims like "I'm the perfect candidate" or "I'm exactly who you need." Instead, use confident but measured language: "I am confident that my skills in [area] would enable me to contribute meaningfully to your team."

Should I mention I'll follow up?

You can mention following up if appropriate for the role (e.g., sales or business development positions). However, be prepared to actually follow up if you say you will. For most applications, "I look forward to hearing from you" or "I welcome the opportunity to discuss this further" is sufficient.

Conclusion: Make Your Closing Count

Your cover letter closing is your final opportunity to make a lasting impression on the hiring manager. By following the strategies and examples in this guide, you can craft endings that:

• Reaffirm your enthusiasm for the specific role and company

• Summarize your unique value in one compelling sentence

• Include a clear call-to-action that invites the next step

• Express appropriate gratitude without being excessive

• Use a professional closing salutation that matches the company culture

Remember, every element of your cover letter matters, from understanding what a cover letter is and its purpose to knowing what to include and what makes a good cover letter. But your closing is particularly important because it's the last thing the hiring manager reads before deciding whether to contact you.

Take the time to craft a closing that's confident, specific, and action-oriented. With the right ending, your cover letter will leave hiring managers eager to learn more about you.

Ready to create a cover letter with a perfect closing? Try our AI-powered cover letter generator to create personalized, professional cover letters in seconds. Our tool analyzes job descriptions and your resume to craft compelling letters that get results—including closings that convert readers into interviewers.