How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internal Promotion
Writing a cover letter is a vital step in the job-seeking process, no matter if you're applying for a job or asking for a promotion. Many internal job candidates don't bother to take the time to write a formal cover letter for a potential promotion. However, career experts agree that writing a cover letter for an internal promotion shows that you take the process seriously and are willing to go the extra mile to prove your worthiness for the job.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
State your interest in the promotion within the first paragraph. This serves as a strong opening to your cover letter and establishes you as a candidate for the position. This paragraph doesn't have to be long--it can be as simple as "I recently learned of the opening for a marketing manager in the online division and I'd like to be considered for the position."
-
2
Show how your skills and achievements can prove useful for the new position. This is the area where you can "toot your own horn." Be sure to list all of the skills and education you have that will help you be successful in this new position. However, it's vital that you list your accomplishments in your current position in the company and how they've positively benefited the company. The executives want to know that you provide value for the company before they promote you, so that's why you have to show your accomplishments and tell them why you're the best person for the job.
-
-
3
Express loyalty to your company. This is the area of the cover letter where you stroke the management's ego and show why you wish to build your career within the company. Doing this will show your superiors that you're committed to staying with the company and help it grow. It also reminds them that they should hire you instead of an outside candidate because they know your track record and can save money on training a new person on company policy.
-
4
Finish by summarizing your qualifications for the job. This leaves the management with a fresh take on your skill set and reminds them why they should consider you for the job. Close the letter by letting management know that you're available to answer any questions anytime. Also put that you will contact the department's hiring manager within two weeks to inquire about a formal interview for the position. This shows that you're motivated and willing to go the extra mile to get the promotion.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Always address a cover letter to a specific person--ideally the hiring manager for the position. Putting "to whom it may concern" on a cover letter shows you weren't willing to take the extra time to find the right person's name.
