Cover Letter
A strong cover letter can help you land an interview, which can lead to you a career in retail. The goal of the cover letter is to show you possess the skills and experience to perform the job. Retail positions can be fast-paced, people-focused jobs. You need to show propective employers that you can handle such a position. A well-written cover letter can convey that you can do the job and do it well. This article provides an example of a retail cover letter.
Examples
Example 1
[Date]
[Employer's Name and Title]
[Employer's Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager]:
This letter is to express my interest in discussing the retail position posted on [state how you found out about the position]. The opening presented in this listing is very engaging, and I believe that my [lists skills] make me a competitive candidate for this position.
My areas of strength are that will help me in this position include, but not limited to the following:
• provide exemplary customer service
• replenish stock/inventory
• operate point of sale equipment
• lift and move up to 50 pounds
I possess years of [experience] with [previous retail experience]. As a [position], I [list tasks that show skills needed for retail].
In addition to my [experience], I am proficient in [lists any software or training that the position requires]. [Provide a measurable example of using these skills.]
Please review my résumé for a more detailed account of my qualifications for the retail position.
My experience combined with my skills can make an immediate impact to your team. Contact me at [phone number with area code], or via email at [email address]. I would love to meet for a face-to-face interview to discuss my qualifications in greater detail.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Sign your name]
[Type your name]
Example 2
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Contact Number]
[Email Address]
Re: Retail Position
[Date]
Dear Hiring Manager:
This letter is to express my interest in discussing the Retail position posted on [source of job information]. The opportunity presented in this listing is very appealing, and I believe that my sales and customer service make me a competitive candidate for this position.
Your company requires:
[list job requirments from the posting in a bulleted list]
My following experience proves I can an exceptional job:
[list previous experience that directely links to requirements]
In addition to my customer service and sales experience, I am proficient in [list any relevant software and/or equipment]. Also, I am [list soft skills, such as organized]. For example, [provide a specific example that displays the soft skill].
[Optional; only specific a salary requirement if listed in the job posting] Per your request, the position warrants a yearly salary of [figure]. This figure is based upon my years of experience, the tasks listed for the position, and recent data from [site a credible source such as: salary.com]. However, this figure is negotiable and contingent upon other factors such as: benefits, tuition reimbursement, etc.
My experience combined with my skills can make an immediate impact to your team. To discuss my qualifications in greater detail, contact me at [phone number], or via email at [email address].
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Sign your name]
[Type your name]
Header
The header section of the cover letter includes: the date the letter was written, the address of the prospective employer, the name of the hiring manager (if the name is unknown use To Whom it May Concern), and the hiring manager's title. Use a colon after the name.
Introduction
In the introductory paragraph, tell the reader the position that has peaked your interest. State how you found out about the position (for example, via a website or an employee referral).
Body
In the body paragraphs, list your top five transferrable skills. Provide a specific example of how you possess the skills and experience that the position requires.
Closing
In the conclusion paragraph, thank the hiring manager for his consideration. Keep the lines of communication open by stating your interest in a face-to-face meeting. Also, leave multiple means (phone and email address) for contacting you for future discussions.
