How to Sign-off Cover Letter

Creating an SEO-optimized article around the topic of “how to sign off a cover letter” necessitates a user-first approach, offering deep insights and practical examples. The goal is to empower job seekers with the knowledge to conclude their cover letters effectively, enhancing their chances of making a memorable impression on potential employers. This comprehensive guide focuses on the crucial final touch of the cover letter: the sign-off.

The Art of Signing Off a Cover Letter: Making a Lasting Impression

In the journey of job application, every detail counts, especially how you conclude a professional document like a cover letter. The sign-off, though a small part of your letter, plays a significant role in leaving a lasting impression on your potential employer. Let’s delve into the best practices for signing off a cover letter, ensuring your application stands out for all the right reasons.

Understanding the Importance of a Proper Sign-Off

The conclusion of your cover letter is your final opportunity to express your enthusiasm for the position and to leave the hiring manager with a positive image of you as a candidate. It’s more than just a formality; it’s a final personal touch that can differentiate you from other applicants.

Best Practices for Signing Off Your Cover Letter

1. Choose the Right Closing Salutation: The sign-off should be professional and respectful. Popular choices include “Sincerely,” “Best regards,” and “Yours faithfully” (the latter being more common in the UK). Each of these options conveys a respectful and earnest tone, suitable for the formal nature of a job application.
2. Personalize Where Possible: While the closing itself should remain formal, adding a touch of personalization to your cover letter, including the sign-off, can help you stand out. If you’ve established a rapport with the hiring manager, a slightly more personalized closing, like “Warm regards,” might be appropriate.
3. Keep It Professional: Regardless of the industry or company culture, erring on the side of formality in your sign-off is usually the safest bet. Avoid overly casual or familiar phrases that might undermine the professional quality of your application.
4. Use a Complementary Closing: Ensure your sign-off complements the tone and content of your cover letter. A mismatch between the body of your letter and its conclusion can be jarring and may detract from the overall impression you’re trying to make.
5. Signature and Typed Name: If you’re submitting a printed cover letter, leave space for your handwritten signature, followed by your typed name. For electronic submissions, simply typing your name is acceptable. Including both adds a personal touch and reinforces your identity to the reader.

Examples of Effective Cover Letter Sign-Offs

• For a traditional corporate position: “Sincerely, [Your Name]”
• For a role in a more modern or creative industry: “Best regards, [Your Name]”
• When you have a personal connection with the hiring manager: “Warm regards, [Your Name]”

Is it acceptable to use more creative sign-offs in my cover letter for a job in a creative field?

While creativity is valued in many industries, it’s important to balance creativity with professionalism in your cover letter sign-off. For creative fields, you might opt for a slightly more personal or warm closing, like “Warm regards” or “Best wishes,” but avoid overly casual or quirky sign-offs that might come across as unprofessional. The key is to reflect your personality while maintaining a level of formality suitable for a job application.

How do I decide whether to use “Sincerely” or “Best regards” in my cover letter?

“Sincerely” is traditionally seen as a bit more formal than “Best regards,” making it a safe choice for most applications, particularly in conservative fields. “Best regards” conveys warmth and friendliness while still being appropriate for professional contexts. Consider the company culture and the tone of the job posting. If the company seems to value a more personal approach, “Best regards” could be a fitting choice. For more traditional companies, stick with “Sincerely.”

Can the wrong sign-off hurt my chances of landing an interview?

While the content of your cover letter and resume is far more critical to securing an interview, an inappropriate sign-off can leave a less favorable impression. A sign-off that’s too casual or overly familiar for the context can suggest a lack of professionalism or attention to social cues. Conversely, an overly formal sign-off in a creative industry might seem out of touch. Aim for a balance that matches the company’s culture.

Should I include my professional title in the sign-off?

Including your professional title can be helpful, particularly if it is relevant to the job you’re applying for, as it reinforces your professional identity. For example, you might sign off as “Sincerely, [Your Name], [Your Professional Title]” if your title is directly related to the position. However, this is not a requirement, and your title should also be clear from your resume.

What if I’m sending my cover letter via email? Does the sign-off change?

The principles of a professional sign-off apply to both hard copy and email cover letters. However, emails tend to be slightly less formal, so while “Sincerely” is always appropriate, “Best regards” or “Kind regards” can also be excellent choices for email. Remember to include a professional email signature with your contact information after your sign-off for easy reference.

Is it necessary to leave space for a handwritten signature on a digital cover letter?

For digital submissions, a handwritten signature is not necessary. Simply type your full name after your chosen sign-off. If you wish to add a personal touch, you can include a scanned image of your handwritten signature, but ensure it looks professional and clear.

How can I ensure my cover letter sign-off aligns with the overall tone of my application?

Read your cover letter in its entirety before deciding on the sign-off. The tone of your closing should naturally flow from the body of the letter. If your letter is highly formal and structured, “Sincerely” might be the best fit. If the tone is a bit more relaxed or conversational, “Best regards” could work well. Consistency in tone from start to finish is key to a cohesive and compelling cover letter.