Crafting a compelling cover letter takes more than just listing your qualifications and experiences — it also requires a strong and strategic closing. The end of your cover letter is your final opportunity to leave a lasting impression and clearly convey your enthusiasm for the role. Yet, many job seekers treat this section as an afterthought, using vague and impersonal phrases that add little value.
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TL;DR
The closing of your cover letter should be confident, polite, and action-oriented. A strong ending reinforces your interest in the role, appreciates the employer’s time, and invites further communication. Use specific language to show eagerness without sounding desperate. Avoid overused phrases and instead personalize your message to align with the company’s values and the job description.
Why the Closing Line Matters
The final sentences of your cover letter are more than just courtesy — they are a strategic element in your application. Hiring managers often skim cover letters, so your closing might be one of the few parts they read thoroughly. A compelling ending helps you:
- Demonstrate initiative: It highlights your interest in moving forward with next steps, like interviews.
- Show professionalism: A thoughtful closing reflects your communication skills and respect for the employer’s time.
- Provide a call to action: It hints or directly states your hope to discuss the opportunity further.
Principles of a Strong Cover Letter Ending
To ensure your closing line is effective and professional, follow these principles:
1. Express Gratitude and Interest
Begin by thanking the hiring manager for their time and consideration. This adds a tone of humility and professionalism. Following that, reaffirm your enthusiasm toward the position or organization.
Example: “Thank you for considering my application. I am genuinely excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and bring value to the [Company Name] mission.”
2. Include a Call to Action
Encourage the next step without being overly aggressive. A well-placed call to action shows initiative and confidence in your fit for the role.
Example: “I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills align with your team’s goals in more detail during an interview.”
3. Avoid Clichés
Generic phrases like “looking forward to hearing from you” or “please contact me at your earliest convenience” can dilute your message. Aim for authenticity and include details specific to the job or company.
Best Closing Line Examples
Here are several closing line templates you can adapt, depending on the tone and industry of the company you’re applying to:
- Professional and Direct:
“Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the possibility of contributing my experience and enthusiasm to your team.” - Polite and Optimistic:
“I appreciate the chance to apply for this role, and I am eager to further discuss how I can deliver measurable results as part of your team.” - Confident and Action-Oriented:
“I’m excited about the opportunity to bring my background in [specific skill/experience] to [Company Name]. I would be grateful for an interview to further explore this alignment.” - Passionate and Mission-Focused:
“Joining a company committed to [specific mission or value] is inspiring. I’m enthusiastic about the chance to support your vision and would welcome an opportunity to discuss further.”
Effective Sign-Offs
After your closing line, choose a professional sign-off to conclude your letter. Avoid outdated or informal expressions, and choose a salutation that reflects modern business etiquette:
- Sincerely,
- Best regards,
- Kind regards,
- Thank you,
Then, skip a line and include your full name. If you’re sending a digital copy, it’s optional to insert a digital signature. For printed letters, include a handwritten signature above your typed name.
Mistakes to Avoid in the Closing
The ending of your cover letter should be strong and free of weak statements or unnecessary repetition. Here are common pitfalls:
- Over-apologizing: Don’t say “Sorry for taking up your time.” Be confident in the value you offer.
- Vague requests: Avoid lines like “I hope you give me a chance.” Instead, be assertive: “I would welcome the opportunity to demonstrate…”
- Neglecting personalization: Generic expressions won’t stand out. Include the company name or refer to their specific goals to show genuine interest.
Tailoring the Tone to the Industry
Your closing line should mirror the tone appropriate for your industry. A creative agency might appreciate passion and flair, while a legal firm would expect a more conservative and formal tone.
Creative Industry Example:
“With a shared passion for storytelling and innovation, I’m energized by the chance to bring unique perspectives to your creative team.”
Corporate/Legal Example:
“I am confident my dedication to detail and strategic thinking make me a strong fit. I would be honored to discuss how I can contribute to your firm’s continued success.”
Final Paragraph Structure
A strong closing paragraph should cap your letter with confidence, gratitude, and focus on future engagement. Here’s a simple framework to follow:
- Begin with a thank you – show appreciation for the reader’s time.
- Reiterate your value – briefly remind them why you’re a strong candidate.
- Include a call to action – express your hope or readiness for the next steps.
- Use a professional sign-off – close with a polished farewell and your name.
Conclusion: Make Your Closing Count
Ending your cover letter is more than just ticking a box; it’s your final pitch to the employer. It’s where you wrap up your narrative, leave an impression, and extend an invitation to continue the conversation. Done well, your closing reinforces your professionalism, drives home your enthusiasm, and encourages the hiring manager to reach for your résumé with interest.
By expressing authenticity, enthusiasm, and a readiness to contribute, you’re more likely to move past the pile and into the interview stage. Carefully crafting your last lines signals that you understand not just the mechanics of applying — but the art of communicating.
