Your cover letter is usually the first impression you give to a hiring manager. It is your opportunity to show your skills, experience, and excitement for the job. While what you write in your cover letter is very important, do not forget the need for a professional closing. Knowing how to sign off a cover letter properly shows you pay attention to detail. This leaves a good impression that lasts.
Key Highlights
- A professional signature adds a polished touch to your cover letter.
- Understand the difference between signing a physical cover letter and an email cover letter.
- When sending a physical cover letter, a handwritten signature is a nice touch.
- For email cover letters, a professional email signature with your full name and contact information is sufficient.
- Whether you’re aiming for a digital or handwritten signature, make sure it aligns with your professional image.
Understanding the Importance of a Professional Signature
In job applications, a professional signature on your cover letter is a small but important detail. It shows that you care about being professional and presentable. Just like you choose your words carefully in your cover letter, your signature should also look nice and polished.
A good cover letter signature does more than just show your name. It is a chance to express your interest, add a personal touch, and make a lasting impression on the hiring manager.
The Role of a Signature in Your Cover Letter
The main job of your cover letter signature is to end your letter formally and show your full name. This can seem simple, but it’s important to do it right to make a good impression. A messy signature can take away from a strong cover letter.
For physical cover letters, a handwritten signature is nice. It shows that you took the time to print, sign, and send your letter, which shows real interest. However, for an email cover letter, you do not need to handwrite anything.
Instead, make a professional email signature. It should include your full name, email address, and phone number. A clear email signature helps the hiring manager reach you easily.
Differences Between Digital and Handwritten Signatures
Understanding the difference between digital and handwritten signatures can help you save time and make sure your application follows best practices. Here is a quick breakdown:
- Handwritten signatures are used for physical cover letters. They add a personal touch and show you pay attention to detail.
- Digital signatures are electronic signatures mostly used for legal documents and contracts. They provide security and proof but are not usually needed for cover letters.
When it comes to cover letters, you will either use a handwritten signature for hard copies or just type your name for email cover letters.
Preparing to Sign Your Cover Letter
Before you sign your cover letter, stop and check your work. Reread your cover letter. Make sure it is interesting, has no mistakes, and fits the job you’re applying for.
When you feel good about your cover letter, add a professional signature. How you do this will depend on if you are sending a physical cover letter or an email.
Gathering Necessary Tools for Signing
If you are using a traditional paper cover letter, you will need a few important tools for signing it professionally:
- High-quality pen: Pick a pen that has black ink. It should write smoothly and evenly. Don’t use colored ink or pencils, as these can look unprofessional.
- Blank piece of paper: Before you sign your cover letter, practice your signature several times on a separate piece of paper. This will help you avoid smudges or mistakes on the real document.
- Scanner (optional): If you wish to have a digital copy of your signed cover letter, you can use a scanner or a scanner app on your smartphone. This will give you a clear and readable scan.
Having these tools ready will make the signing process easier. It also helps ensure your physical cover letter looks neat and professional.
Deciding Between Digital or Handwritten Signatures
When you send your cover letter by email, you will use a digital signature. You don’t need to add a picture of your handwritten signature. Instead, make a professional email signature. This should include your full name, a good email address (not your work email address), your phone number, and links to your LinkedIn profile or online portfolio if you want.
Make sure the font and design of your email signature match the rest of your email. Keep it clean and simple. Avoid fancy fonts or colors that can take away from the professionalism of your application.
Step-by-Step Guide to Signing a Cover Letter
Now that we talked about digital and handwritten signatures, let’s focus on how to sign your cover letter step by step. This guide will help you create a signature that follows good practices and improves your application.
Make sure to think about how you will send it, whether by email or physical mail. This choice will help you decide the right style of signature to use.
Step 1: Finalizing Your Cover Letter Content
Before you think about your signature, make sure your cover letter is perfect. This means you should follow a professional cover letter format, look at cover letter templates for ideas, or use a cover letter builder to make it easier.
Check for any grammar mistakes, typos, or strange wording. Your cover letter should read well and clearly show your skills and excitement for the job.
It can help to ask a friend or mentor to read your cover letter. They can give you helpful feedback to find mistakes or spots that could be better.
Step 2: Choosing Your Signature Style
The way you sign your cover letter depends on whether you’re sending a physical copy or an email. Here’s a breakdown:
- Physical Cover Letter: Use a professional closing, leave space for your handwritten signature, and then type your full name below.
- Email Cover Letter: End your email with a professional closing followed by your typed name, contact information, and optional links to your LinkedIn profile or online portfolio.
Here’s a quick reference guide:
| Physical Cover Letter | Email Cover Letter | |
|---|---|---|
| Closing | Yes | Yes |
| Handwritten Signature | Yes | No |
| Typed Name | Yes | Yes |
| Contact Information | In Header | Below Typed Name |
| Links (LinkedIn, Portfolio, etc.) | No | Optional |
For your closing, stick to professional and courteous options like “Sincerely,” “Best regards,” or “Kind regards.”
Conclusion
Signing your cover letter the right way is very important. It helps you make a good impression on potential employers. You can choose to use a digital or handwritten signature. Make sure it matches the tone and content of your application. Your signature shows a personal touch and highlights your attention to detail. A good signature reflects your professionalism. This can help you stand out from other candidates. So, take time to improve your signature style. This will make a positive impact on your job application process. Good luck!
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I Cannot Create a Digital Signature?
You do not need a formal digital signature for a cover letter. If you cannot make an image of your signature, just type your name on a job site or in an email. You can also add your contact information and a link to your LinkedIn profile if you want.
Is a Handwritten Signature Necessary for Email Cover Letters?
No, you don’t need a handwritten signature for email cover letters. A professional email signature that includes your name and contact details, like the one you would use in a Gmail message, is enough.
How Can I Make My Digital Signature Look Professional?
- Use a font that matches your header and greeting.
- Make sure your contact information is correct and easy to read.
- A clean, simple digital signature looks professional.
- If you choose to use a scanned signature, ensure it is high-quality.
Can I Use a Typed Name as My Signature?
A typed name can be a good signature, especially in email cover letters. Make sure to add your contact information below. This should include your phone number. You can also add your LinkedIn profile link to create a full email signature.
What Should I Do If I’m Submitting a Cover Letter Through an Online Form?
Some online forms might have a place for a digital signature. Others could just have a blank space. You can treat this blank space like the end of your cover letter—just type your full name there. If there is no space, it means recruiters probably do not expect a signature.
