As an HR professional, you know how to make employees and the corporation productive, especially when you bring in new talent. But even though you know the ins and outs of the hiring process, getting hired yourself is a different ballgame.
It’s tiring enough having to assess hundreds of candidates’ job skills all day only to head home and polish off an HR resume, create a cover letter, and prepare another application for yours truly.
We understand that getting hired isn’t easy—even if you’re familiar with the process. Our guide, complete with five HR cover letter examples, will walk you through how to write a cover letter that will land you an interview and, hopefully, your dream job.
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123 Fictional Lane
Albuquerque, NM
(123) 456-7890
January 23, 2023
Mildred Bellah, Recruitment Manager
Central New Mexico Community College
900 University Blvd SE
Albuquerque, NM 87106
Dear Ms. Bellah:
Central New Mexico Community College’s core values of connection, compassion, and inspiration resonate with my values as a human resources professional. Your unique value-based approach has unsurprisingly made CNM one of the top 5 community colleges in the U.S. That, combined with your defined vision plans, inspired me to apply because my work would make a concrete difference for students and staff.
I believe employee relationships are at the heart of HR, which is why I consistently stress collaboration. One of my most successful collaboration initiatives was at the Blue Light Aquarium. As the assistant to the HR Vice President, I revamped the onboarding process for seasonal hires, implementing face-to-face checkpoints, daily meetings, and fun events to monitor progress, offer encouragement, and build relationships. I also implemented surveys to gauge trainee reactions and areas of concern. Our seasonal employee turnover rate dropped by 12%, and employee satisfaction improved by 19%. Moreover, our summer recruitment improved by 22% based solely on recommendations.
However, I haven’t just done big projects; I’ve seen how “small” tasks go a long way in HR. As the HR coordinator at Meow Wolf, my primary role was administrative. Even in more tedious administrative work, I dedicated myself to ensuring all reports, employee files, and schedules were organized and updated with 100% accuracy and compliance. Through my diligence, employee satisfaction in my department grew by 24%, and productivity rose by 16%. I also helped several employees earn raises after comparing their progress reports to their compensation records.
Overall, I believe there is no hurdle too big or too small when it comes to HR. I hope to ease your HR department’s burdens and bring joy to the students of Central New Mexico Community College by assisting with onboarding, employee relations, and administration. Thank you for making CNM one of the best schools in New Mexico, and I look forward to your response regarding my application.
Sincerely,
Derek Annais
Enclosures:
Resume
Application
Transcript
Why this cover letter works
- The best way to get the hiring manager to notice you is by keeping your human resources cover letter focused on the company.
- Find a way to link the company to you. Derek does this by demonstrating values both he and the employer share, like his belief that employee relationships are at the heart of HR.
- Employers don’t just want to know you’re good at your job; they want to know you’re passionate about it.
- You can tell a short story, laugh at the witty HR job ad, explain how you found the company, or state your enthusiasm for the high-impact position.
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Human Resources Assistant Cover Letter Example
USE THIS TEMPLATE
Copy this text for your Human Resources Assistant cover letter!
123 Fictional Avenue
Dallas, TX 75201
(123) 456-7890
November 20, 2023
Ethan Anderson
JCPenney
123 Fictional Lane
Dallas, TX 75201
Dear Mr. Anderson:
Knowing JCPenney’s long-standing reputation in the retail industry and corporate culture, I’m profoundly impressed by the company’s dedication to employee growth and creating an inclusive workplace. The values of your company reflect my own professional aspirations which has further driven my interest in joining your team as a human resources assistant.
In my previous role as an HR assistant at Neiman Marcus Group, I actively supported the onboarding process by leveraging Human Resources Information Systems (HRIS), which expedited the time taken for the orientation of new employees by up to 28%. I also optimized payroll processing using Paychex which helped cut down 47% of remittance errors.
A previous milestone that I was able to accomplish was to single-handedly integrate a monitoring system that increased EEOC Reporting Compliance. With this system in place, the company achieved the highest compliance rate for two consecutive years. Additionally, the system helped establish the firm’s reputation as a place where DEI initiatives are exercised regularly.
Aside from my technical skills, my ability to foster strong relationships with employees puts me in a unique position to always address their concerns promptly. I believe this interpersonal skill, combined with my technical expertise, can bring substantial value to the legacy of JCPenney.
I’m greatly enthusiastic to join JCPenney and contribute to the HR team’s objectives and vision. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how my skills and experiences can align with the company’s vision.
Thank you,
Liam Andersen
Why this cover letter works
- Your opening paragraph is your space to persuade the hiring manager and draw their attention to reading your human resources assistant cover letter till the end.
- As far as the body is concerned, make it digestible and easy to read especially where you express your main skills and accomplishments as it helps you to convey your skills in an impactful manner.
Human Resources Generalist Cover Letter Example
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123 Fictional Avenue
San Jose, CA 95101
(123) 456-7890
November 20, 2023
Michael Jackson
Hewlett Packard Enterprise
123 Fictional Lane
San Jose, CA 95101
Dear Mr. Jackson:
Recognizing Hewlett Packard Enterprise’s unrelenting pursuit to empower workplace diversity and inclusion, I’m delighted to express my interest in contributing my experience and skills as your next human resources generalist. I have always believed in working with a team that values the principles of a well-supported workforce as deeply as I do and I’m eager to contribute my ideas and experiences in this position.
During my tenure with Prysm, Inc., I demonstrated my proficiency in using ADP Workforce software to optimize HR operations, achieving a 27% improvement in processing times. Moreover, my dedication to workplace inclusivity also helped carry out workplace harassment and diversity training programs, recording a 48% reduction in reported workplace incidents.
At Zscaler, I spearheaded a project that employed thorough background checks and screening, ensuring only the most qualified and suitable candidates joined our ranks.
I’m genuinely inspired by Hewlett Packard Enterprise’s commitment to global diversity and promoting an equitable workplace. Deeply anticipating how my skills and experience echo the company’s ethos and objectives. Thank you for considering my application and I’m excited to take this conversation forward.
Sincerely,
Leila Ibrahim
Why this cover letter works
- Notice how Leila puts forward skills and past experience time and again. Also, being able to back up this experience with impactful metrics is the spotlight of this human resources generalist cover letter.
- Another addition to creating an unforgettable piece is signing off with an optimistic attitude and exemplifying how your skills can contribute to the company’s ethos and objectives.
Copy this text for your Human Resources Manager cover letter!
123 Fictional Lane
Coral Terrace, FL
(123) 456-7890
January 23, 2023
Vanessa Sarne, Senior Human Resources Director
PLANTA
850 Commerce Street
Miami Beach, FL 33139
Dear Ms. Sarne,
Your authenticity and commitment to quality resonate with my lifestyle of taking actionable steps for sustainability. After visiting a PLANTA location last spring, I was impressed by the sustainable restaurant practices, your customer service, and your involvement in local environmental programs. With over 14 years in HR and a deep appreciation for your mission, I’d love to be part of the solution of improving onboarding procedures, managing performance, and assisting with benefits and payroll.
PLANTA is not the first employer I have known to pursue innovation with their HR initiatives. As the HR manager at White Wolf Books, I monitored HR plans and planned updates, including transforming the onboarding process to extend beyond training. I wanted employees to progress in their careers, but we lacked the resources to help them achieve their goals. Through implementing new programs and adding more resources, employee satisfaction increased by 53%, productivity grew by 28%, and revenue-per-employee rose by 16%.
I also have experience solving complex employee relations issues. As the HR manager with Cygna Labs, positive mediation was roughly 50% of my role. I investigated complaints, ensured compliance with legal employment requirements, and developed new policies and procedures. By the end of my position, our retention rate had increased by 45%, our human capital return on investment had improved by 23%, and the number of promoter-level NPS scores had increased by 42%.
My goal is to develop creative solutions that result in happier, more productive employees through innovative methods. I believe I can positively impact PLANTA by coaching others, leading projects/initiatives, and updating operations. Thank you for providing this opportunity, and I look forward to discussing PLANTA’s future together (and enjoying some amazing vegan meals).
Respectfully,
Aidan Gensell
Enclosures:
Resume
Application
3 Reference Letters
Why this cover letter works
- Most human resources manager cover letters suffer from a lack of storytelling; they fail to showcase the candidate’s background. Metrics alone won’t get you a job—you need a spark.
- Don’t be afraid to use a narrative style in your cover letters when it’s applicable, especially if you’ve had a good experience with the company.
- Aidan starts his cover letter with a story about how he visited PLANTA and later states how he’s looking forward to “enjoying some amazing vegan meals.”
- Conclusions are difficult, but Aidan makes it look easy by discussing his values, what he wants to contribute, and his desires regarding the future.
- Remember what you’ve written in your body paragraphs when writing your conclusion and support your points. Don’t overthink it.
Copy this text for your Human Resources Director cover letter!
123 Fictional Lane
Deerfield Beach, FL
(123) 456-7890
January 23, 2023
Min Ju Ha, Director of Talent Acquisition
50 Eggs Hospitality Group
7350 Biscayne Blvd
Miami, FL 33138
Dear Ms. Ju Ha:
After reading about the witty origins of your company’s name, I knew I wanted to apply for the HR director position. I loved your honesty and humor, and I was further amazed by your culture of unshakable people who tackle complex problems with ease. With lengthy and diverse experience in HR and hospitality, I believe I am an ideal candidate to be your HR director.
My latest role in the HR and hospitality industries was as the HR Director at Cedar Garland resort. Some senior employees expressed a desire for more growth, so I collaborated with management to design and implement 75% more career progression initiatives through continual training programs. After one year, our retention rate soared to 94%, our profit-per-employee rates increased by 34%, and our customer satisfaction scores rose by 47%.
My longest role was as the Director of Human Resources at The National Hotel at Miami Beach. Although their staff was large, their retention rates were low due to outdated payroll and benefits practices. I reviewed current procedures, researched modern options, and initiated the switch to Paychex for payroll management. After strictly monitoring compliance with payroll practices and the new benefits system, our eNPS rose by 39%, and the number of payroll errors decreased by 78%.
I strive to improve the lives of employees by implementing modern practices and offering practical solutions to common problems. As your HR director, I desire to develop new training programs, ensure compliance, and increase employee engagement/satisfaction. Thank you for considering me for this position, and I hope to experience your restaurants first-hand soon.
Sincerely,
Julian Annaheim
Enclosures:
Resume
Application
Why this cover letter works
- Tailoring your human resources director cover letter is one of the best ways to demonstrate your knowledge, especially in your opening and closing.
- In your cover letter, address what the company offers, such as amazing software or a killer hotel experience, and express your wish to experience more of what makes them unique.
- Avoid badmouthing previous companies, but it’s okay to mention why your expertise was needed.
- If you decide to implement this technique, pay attention to tone and word choice. You never want to make it sound as if the company was poorly managing its employees, even if that was the case.
- For example, Julian explains Cedar Garland’s need for updated procedures for experienced employees and how The National Hotel needed modernized programs for payroll.
Build your human resources resume for a complete application
Before we dive into the specific ways you can write your cover letter, don’t let writing your resume slip through the cracks. We make it simple with professional resume templates just like this one.
Human Resources Resume
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Write a Winning Human Resources Cover Letter
Writing a stunning human resources cover letter is difficult, so let’s break it down into three simple factors: research, details, and presentation.
Step 1: Research the organization and its needs
As an HR professional, you know that reading generic cover letters is exhausting and annoying. They fail to show initiative or explain how the candidate will help you once they get hired.
So, in your cover letter, show you care about the company and can help them reach its goals. But you’ll only know what to write once you know what the business wants.
Start by reading the human resources job description to get a feel for their personality. Then scan their website to find their mission statement, vision, and goals.
Assure the employer that you can deliver the results they desire by addressing their unique concerns and applying your relevant qualifications.
Step 2: Share the details about one or two accomplishments
As you know, reading redundant paperwork is a complete snooze-fest. So, your human resources cover letter can’t be a repeat of your resume, or the recruiter will be snoring before they hit the second paragraph.
Think of your cover letter as a presentation. Pick one to two of your accomplishments that echo the job description’s requirements and give the full scope of those experiences. You could:
This example stays focused on one goal or talent (photography/videography). Although the candidate could have just focused on responsibilities, they focus instead on how their efforts helped the company.
- Address your work and successes in revamping the onboarding process for seasonal hires
- Share how you listened to employees and made lasting changes via surveys, check-ins, evaluations, etc.
- Talk about how you decreased the employee turnover rate
Step 3: Convey the right tone and a clear message
Your cover letter should strike a balance between unique and professional, personal but not sentimental. Easier said than done, right?
Start by limiting your cover letter to one page. Then you can start modifying your message. Present a logical argument with enough ethos (credibility) and pathos (emotion) to sell anyone on your skills.
Then adjust your tone. Your cover letter can be funny, heartfelt, or candid—but moderation is key. Let the job description help you choose your content, your words, and how you phrase your message. Most of all, shoot for a tone that matches the company.
Present a logical argument with enough ethos (credibility) and pathos (emotion) to sell anyone on your skills.
Don’t despair if this is difficult; next up is revision, where you can fix any errors and tweak the content. Now is also a perfect time to let someone else read your cover letter to recommend improvements.
Outlining Your Human Resources Cover Letter for Success
Starting any project with a blank slate is intimidating, so use this HR cover letter outline to get you started on the right foot!
How to start a human resources cover letter
Your contact info: Give employers a helping hand and provide your contact information right from the get-go. List your name, number, email, and physical address right at the top of your cover letter template.
- Formatting: If you’re using a block format, only include your physical address, and save your name for the signature.
Date: Even in a virtual letter, you should include a date. It makes your cover letter look more professional, and it gives the hiring manager a timeline for your application.
Just make sure the date on your cover letter reflects the day you submit it, especially if you re-work your cover letters based on previous submissions.
- Formatting: Write out the full date, e.g., January 5, 2023.
Inside address: Your address isn’t the only one that matters; also include the inside address, aka the employer’s address. It should have the hiring manager or recruiter’s name, their title, and the company’s physical address. This shows the employer you’ve researched their company and know to whom you’re speaking.
If the company doesn’t list its address or has multiple locations, check sites like LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and the company’s website (you can also check Google Maps).
Example
Min Ju Ha, Director of Talent Acquisition
50 Eggs Hospitality Group
7350 Biscayne Blvd
Miami, FL 33138
- Formatting: Each part of the address should be on a new line. Double space between the inside address and greeting.
Greeting: A polite greeting is always in vogue, so start your human resources cover letter with a formal, yet personal, salutation. Use the tried-and-true “dear,” followed by “Ms.” or “Mr.” and the hiring manager’s last name to avoid ruffling feathers (some businesses don’t appreciate casual introductions).
Finding the person in charge of hiring can be a pain, but people love to be addressed by name, so it’s worth it to spend the time to make a great first impression. Worst case scenario, address either the whole HR team (“Dear HR Hiring Team”) or the department head (“Dear HR Manager”).
- Formatting: After your greeting, you’ll need either a comma or a colon; a colon is the preferred business option, but if the business is more casual, you can get away with a comma. Let the job description guide you.
How to write your human resources cover letter
Body: This is the hardest part to get right, but we have you covered. First, focus on cutting your letter down to three to four short paragraphs.
Within those paragraphs, express your enthusiasm for the job, your qualifications, and your desire for future discussion.
Opening paragraph: Remember the last time you read a book that started like, “I am writing to inform you of my purpose, which is to write a really good book?” Yeah, us neither. Yet, most people begin their cover letters with similar statements that are polite but boing, like this:
Bad
I read your job post on LinkedIn, and I am eager to apply. This human resources director position sounds like a perfect fit for my experience, and I know I can help your department reach its goals. My years of experience in human resources and management makes me an ideal candidate.
This information might not be wrong, but it’s vague and generalized—and like 95% of other cover letters in the stack of applications. A good opening is unique and exciting while still being formal. It should address the company and express personality immediately, like this opener:
Good
Central New Mexico Community College’s core values of connection, compassion, and inspiration resonate with my values as a human resources professional. Your unique value-based approach has unsurprisingly made CNM one of the top 5 community colleges in the U.S. That, combined with your defined vision plans, inspired me to apply because my work would make a concrete difference for students and staff.
From the start, this candidate explains what they appreciate about the company and how they align with its beliefs and goals.
Paragraphs 2-3: These paragraphs should provide evidence for your qualifications and dig deep into your achievements; it’s time to define your part of the project and how you turned it into a success.
However tempting, don’t try to tackle a job’s worth of success. Your letter will just sound cluttered and unfocused. Instead, focus on one accomplishment at a time, and provide plenty of details about that experience.
Example
I also have experience solving complex employee relations issues. As the HR manager with Cygna Labs, positive mediation was roughly 50% of my role. I investigated complaints, ensured compliance with legal employment requirements, and developed new policies and procedures. By the end of my position, our retention rate had increased by 45%, our human capital return on investment had improved by 23%, and the number of promoter-level NPS scores had increased by 42%.
Although 50% of their role focused on other tasks, this candidate only mentioned mediation/resolution and their successes with such.
Closing paragraph: Don’t quit while you’re ahead—finish strong with a closing paragraph that summarizes your values, qualifications, and eagerness for an interview. This can sound like a lot, but rest assured, it can be done.
Start with a sentence summary of what you value based on the work experience you’ve described and how that adheres to the company’s values. Next, describe what you hope to accomplish in the position. Lastly, thank the employer and reassure them of your willingness to talk further.
Just remember: you are an ideal candidate, but you shouldn’t sound like this:
Bad
As you can see, I have done everything you require (and more) at my previous jobs, which makes me the perfect candidate for this position. I know I can handle all employee relations responsibilities and ensure complete compliance as I have done at every HR job so far. Please give me a call or email at your earliest convenience; I look forward to making your day at my interview.
Even if all this was true, it’s self-centered and doesn’t address the company at all. Instead, remind the employer of what they stand to gain when they hire you. Further establish how your goals align with theirs and what you’ll do for their HR department.
Good
I strive to improve the lives of employees by implementing modern practices and offering practical solutions to common problems. As your HR director, I desire to develop new training programs, ensure compliance, and increase employee engagement/satisfaction. Thank you for considering me for this position, and I hope to experience your restaurants first-hand soon.
This candidate explains their competency and their goals without sounding brash. It’s a delicate balance, but we know you can find it!
- Formatting: Single space in your letter but double space between paragraphs.
Signature: All that’s left is to sign off and say “thank you” if you didn’t in the closing paragraph. Use a professional closer along with your name.
Example
Sincerely,
Derek Annais
- Formatting: If you’re presenting any hard copies of your human resources cover letter, quadruple space at the bottom to leave room to sign your name.
Enclosure(s): Many people don’t know about this section, but it’s important. It lists the other documents you’re submitting, reminding employers there’s more to come. It also helps them keep track of what you’ve included.
HR positions usually require a job application and a resume, but some also require a supplemental questionnaire or references. Carefully scan the job description and application to make sure you provide everything requested.
Example
Enclosures:
Resume
Application
- Formatting: Use the singular or plural form of “enclosure” depending on how many documents you’re enclosing. Most of the time, it will be plural, but you should check it every time.
Is Your HR Resume on Par with Your Cover Letter?
Now that you’ve written your human resources cover letter, you’ll likely want to hit “submit” immediately. But don’t forget you still need to outline your resume and polish it to shine.
You have a great persuasive argument, aka your cover letter, but you still need a document that quantifies your work experience, aka your resume. When combined, they paint a glowing picture of your career.
Want to know how to make your HR resume just as impressive as your cover letter? A look at our resume examples will give you the boost you need, and you can even edit this HR resume directly.
Human Resources Director Resume
Need a resume to pair with your human resources director cover letter?
If you’ve already started, try out our resume checker to get AI-powered advice to make your resume the best it can be.
Now go snag the dream job you’ve always wanted!
Usually, you would address cover letters to the HR hiring manager, but that role may be vacant if you’re applying for it! Other times, the information may simply not be in the job description. Try searching LinkedIn or the company website for the name of an HR manager or higher-up company leader. If you can’t find any information, you can just lead off by saving “Dear [Company Name] hiring staff” or something similar.
HR is a bit more formal than other positions, with greater needs for cultural awareness and professional communication. However, with cultural awareness in mind, you ideally want to match your tone to the HR job description to show how you’ll fit in with the company’s culture. For example, if the tone comes across as innovative and creative, you could use a similar style when describing your HR abilities. Plus, you may want to emphasize innovative HR practices, like managing employee needs through workplace flexibility.
One page is the ideal length for HR cover letters. You may have been involved in hiring processes before and understand how fast-paced these decisions can be. Keeping your cover letter concise is essential to help hiring managers identify your top skills in aspects like employee relations and advising. That way, they can easily connect the dots that you’re the right pick for the role.
