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Show hiring managers why you're the perfect job candidate with professional, customizable cover letter templates. find the perfect cover letter template for any industry or career path..

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Stand out from other job applicants with free, professional cover letter templates. Cover letters are a perfect complement to your resume and provide an effective opportunity to show your personality and enthusiasm for a position. Focus on writing a compelling cover letter and let a professionally designed template do the rest.

These free cover letter templates are perfect for any stage of your career, whether you're looking to land an internship or your dream job. If you're applying for a corporate position, you may want to opt for a simple cover letter template. There are a variety of other cover letter designs available, from basic cover letter templates to creative cover letter templates.

Each of these cover letter templates is customizable in Word , so you can add your own text, change design elements, and more. Print out your cover letter or download it for free to use for online job applications. Once you've customized the perfect cover letter, explore resume templates that will match your cover letter design, or download free business cards for your next networking event.

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Free Cover Letter Templates for Microsoft Word

• Microsoft Word Cover Letter Templates
• Access Letters From Your Computer

Access Templates Online

• Create a Customized Cover Letter

Tips for Writing an Interview-Winning Cover Letter

• More Free Templates

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A good cover letter can mean the difference between catching the hiring manager’s attention and languishing in job search limbo. But many job seekers find it hard to stare down that blank page. How do you summarize your most important qualifications in a way that makes it clear that you’re the best candidate for the job? Cover letter templates can help.

A cover letter template provides a "fill-in the-blank" format. You can use it to create your own letter to send with your resume when you apply for a job.

Using a template saves you a few steps and helps you structure your letter in a professional way.

Free Microsoft cover letter templates are available online from Microsoft Office Online, as a download for Microsoft Word users, or are available within your Word program.

Note that not all templates may work with all versions of Word, so check before you download. There will be a message next to the download button advising if there are restrictions.

Not a Microsoft user? Google Docs also has  free template samples  available for letters and resumes. Using any of these templates can help you to feel confident that you are properly writing and  formatting your cover letter .

Free Microsoft Word Cover Letter Templates

There are a variety of templates available for Microsoft Word. Template options include  general cover letters  and both job- and career-specific cover letter samples. For example, there are cover letter templates for professionals, temporary workers, and candidates who are sending in their resumes unsolicited.

Microsoft Word also offers a variety of different cover letter template designs, with resume templates to match. Note that if you choose one of these fancier template designs, you’ll want to choose a resume template to match.

Be consistent in your application materials, whether it’s matching your cover letter to your resume or choosing a font or format. That way, hiring managers can focus on your work experience—not your stylistic choices.

Access Cover Letters From Your Computer

Open Microsoft Word, then click on:

Then, search for online templates by typing your keywords (e.g., “cover letter”) in the field provided. You can also click on the "Resumes and Cover Letters" category to get more options. Review the available options and choose the design you like best.

If you don’t own a copy of Microsoft Office or a subscription to Microsoft 365, you can still access  cover letter templates . These templates are free and editable online.

Visit the  Microsoft Cover Letter Templates  website, browse the cover letter templates, then click on the title to preview the sample. You'll need to sign up for a free account to edit the document.

Once you find a template you like, click Edit In Browser, then follow the instructions to customize and save your cover letter. There are also sets, which include matching resumes and cover letters, available to use.

Use the Template to Create a Customized Cover Letter

Once you have downloaded or opened  a cover letter template file , type over the text in the file to create your own  personalized cover letter .

The template will include all the relevant information that you need to include in your document. Simply change the generic version to include your personal and professional information.

It's a good idea to include additional details about your qualifications and experience. Take the time to  match your qualifications to the job description . Include  keywords related to your skills and achievements.

To  customize your cover letter  further, look for a contact person at the company, ideally the hiring manager or HR contact, and address the letter to this person. If you have an employee contact at the company who is willing to refer you, be sure to mention them in the first paragraph of your cover letter. Employee referrals carry a lot of weight with hiring managers.

Double-check to make sure there is none of the template information left in your final saved version. Finally, carefully proofread for grammar and typographical errors before saving and sending your cover letter.

To avoid sending a blank template or the wrong version of your cover letter,  choose a file name  that’s easy to remember. It should always include your name and may also contain the name of the position for which you’re applying. 

Avoid version numbers and cutesy nicknames when choosing a file name for your resume.

• Send one.  Even when an employer does not directly ask for one, be sure  always to send a cover letter . The only time you don’t want to send one is when the job listing says not to.
• Review examples . Review cover letter examples and tips for how to write a cover letter , so yours makes the best impression.
• Customize each letter.  It might seem tedious, be it is important to  customize each cover letter  to fit the specific job you are applying for. It will make your letter stand out.
• Highlight relevant qualifications.  In your cover letter, address one or two skills or qualifications that you have that match the job description. Provide a specific example of a time you demonstrated each of these qualifications. These examples will make your cover letter different from your resume, which is important.
• Explain any potential issues.  You can use your cover letter to go into detail about something in your resume that needs explaining. For example, a cover letter is a good place to talk about a  career shift  or  explain an extended gap in employment .
• Carefully edit your letter.  Be sure to edit each cover letter before sending it thoroughly. Consider asking a friend or family member, or a  career counselor , to read over your cover letter.

More Templates for Resumes and Letters

Microsoft letter templates are available as a free download for Microsoft Word users or are available within your Word program, to use to create a variety of letters. There are letter templates for cover letters,  resignation letters ,  reference letters , thank you letters, interview letters, and a variety of business letters.

Additionally,  Microsoft resume templates  are available as a free download for Microsoft Word users to use to create a resume. Microsoft Word resume options include basic resumes, job-specific resumes, and career-specific resumes.

Cover Letter Template

While a resume provides details to show you CAN do the work, a cover letter shows you WANT to do the work. Cover letters are used to introduce you to the prospective employer, highlight the most important details about you, and if well written, entice the reader to seriously review your resume. Continue reading below to learn how to write a cover letter, see examples of cover letters and to download a free cover letter template .

Resume Cover Letter Template

Other Versions

Description.

Looking for a change in employment? Use this free resume cover letter template to help you get started. Looking for help on Resumes? Check out our tips and templates for resumes .

Author : Brent Weight and Jon Wittwer

License : Limited Use

Cover Letter Objectives

Before writing a cover letter, make sure you have a clear understanding of the goals or objectives for the letter. These objectives include:

• Introduce yourself and your resume
• Explain your experience in more detail by providing pertinent stories or experiences
• Provide a sample of your written communication
• Hook the reader so they will want to read your resume

Personalize Your Cover Letter

Cover letters should be personalized as much as possible. Never send out the same cover letter twice. It may require you to do some research and to reach out to your network to make connections and introductions. Here are some things to include.

• Make sure you tailor your letter to a specific individual and greet them by name.
• If you don't have a name, then consider skipping the generic salutation.
• Try to include details specific to the company or the position.
• Provide a reference about how you heard about the job. This may include the date of the newspaper post or the online job reference number.
• If you have had prior contact with the recipient, remind them of it in the introduction.
• Be sure to mention any third parties that are recommending you or referring you for the position.
• Consider listing the job you are applying for in a subject line.

The main body of the cover letter should have appropriate content. Don't use it to simply recreate your resume. Pick 3 or 4 key traits, skills or attributes you really want to highlight and focus on those. Consider picking traits that may be most appropriate based on the job listing. Use experiences, stories and results to demonstrate your use or possession of the traits or attributes.

Make sure you end with a strong closing that is short and to the point. The time for details and stories has passed. Consider inviting them to read your resume and include a request for a response or an interview. You may decide to keep the ball in your court and simply inform them you will follow up with a phone call. And be considerate and thank them for their time.

Additional Cover Letter Writing Tips

• Use a formal business letter structure - You are writing a letter, not a memo or email. Use a formal business letter template .
• Avoid bad grammar and spelling. - Poorly written and edited letters can kill your chances before they even look at your resume. Consider hiring a professional to edit your cover letter.
• Don't sound desperate - Avoid sounding desperate by avoiding phrases such as "I really need this job" or "I hope you pick me".
• Use formatting wisely - Use formatting such as bullets, italics, bold and font changes to draw attention to key items and to increase readability.
• Avoid anything negative - Honesty about issues or special circumstances you face is important, but you don't have to mention it in your cover letter. Use interviews to provide these details.
• Keep it short - Your letter should highlight and demonstrate, not bore and wander. Keep to the main points and be succinct.
• Don't mess up in the delivery - Make sure your letter looks correct when printed. Consider using nicer paper for actual letters. When sending electronically, send it as a PDF since almost everyone has software to read a PDF file.
• Avoid uncommon language - Avoid terms that are specific to past employers and not used my most people. This would include acronyms and company jargon.

Use AI To Help Write a Resume Cover Letter

There are multiple generative AI tools that can help you come up with a draft for a letter. For example, using the Bing AI Chat or ChatGPT, you could use some of these prompts:

• Create a cover letter for this job posting. [Paste job listing here]
• Create a cover letter for a job as a tie fighter pilot in the empire.

BONUS! If you have a ChatGPT Plus account, check out our Letter Writing AI .

Sample Cover Letters

Sample cover letter for recent graduate.

Bill Stevenson 123 Anywhere Street Somewhereville, Best State 88889

Mr. Ryan Francom IT Manager XYZ Aviation Company 456 Somewhere Road Best Town, Best State 88888

Dear Mr. Francom,

In May, I will graduate from Tech University with a Master's of Science in Aeronautical Engineering. I am seeking to pursue my life long goal of becoming an aeronautical engineer for a world-class aviation company. Let me briefly highlight the skills, values and passion I will bring to XYZ Aviation Company.

• Lifelong passion for all things aeronautical including receiving my pilot's license at the age of 15.
• Solid understanding of aeronautical design processes and procedures gained at ABC Corp as a Level 1 engineer.
• Ability to work with others on interdisciplinary design teams in order to meet goals and complete projects on time.
• An aptitude for defining problems and identifying creative solutions while building consensus between all affected parties.
• A hardworking and self-directed work ethic with a dedication to detail.

An interview to further review your needs and my skills would be mutually beneficial. Next week I will contact you to schedule an interview. I look forward to talking to you soon.

Bill Stevenson

Example Cover Letter

Nancy Thompson 123 Anywhere Street Somewhereville, Best State 88889

Ms. Emily Smith HR Manager XYZ Company 456 Somewhere Road Best Town, Best State 88888

Dear Ms. Smith,

Bob Jones, your IT director, suggested that I contact you regarding the recently listed Sales Director position. I would love to be an integral part of your leadership team and contribute my proven management skills, efficiency and productivity to your corporate goals.

Highlights of my 20 year career include

• Over 10 years of experience managing direct sales staff with 20 years of marketing and sales experience.
• Creation and implementation of a direct sales program with annual sales reaching $50 million in less than 4 years.
• Deadlines met on time and in budget with a willingness to work with others to accomplish corporate tasks.
• Led the successful acquisition and merger of ACME Companies catalog sales division with ABC Companies sales division.

I am confident my qualifications will allow me to add significant value to your company as the Sales Director. I will call you directly to schedule an appropriate time for us to speak about the challenges and opportunities your company faces and how I can contribute to your company's future growth and success. Thank you in advance for your time.

Nancy Thompson

More Resume Cover Letter Templates

There are some sample cover letters in the Microsoft Office template gallery, under the category Letters . You can also find templates by opening Microsoft Word, going to File > New, and searching for "resume cover letter." Below are examples of some of the letters you can find this way:

• Resume Cover Letter to Use When Referred by a Colleague
• Cover Letter for an Entry-Level Resume
• Cover Letter in Response to Advertisement
• ... for a Temporary Position
• ... Announcing Your Job Search
• ... for a Functional Resume
• ... with Salary Requirements
• ... for Unsolicited Resume

Additional Resources

Below are some additional resources to help you write a great cover letter for your resume. They contain additional writing guidelines and tips.

• What is a Cover Letter? at purdue.edu - A down-and-dirty guide to writing cover letters.
• 6 Secrets to Writing a Great Cover Letter at forbes.com - Some extra tips
• Cover Letter Tips (PDF) at michigan.gov - Basic cover letter structure and tips with additional examples.
• Cover Letter Writing at northwestern.edu

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More From Forbes

Writing Cover Letters For A Career Change: Tips And Examples

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Embarking on a career change is a pivotal moment, fraught with uncertainty but brimming with potential. And especially in cases where your resume might not directly align with the job at hand, your cover letter becomes the narrative that connects the dots. A well-crafted cover can illuminate your strengths, align your past experiences with your future aspirations, and persuade potential employers to see the value you bring.

The Importance Of A Cover Letter In Career Changes

In career transitions, your cover letter is your storyteller. It explains the why and the how of your career change, showcasing your enthusiasm and demonstrating how your background equips you with unique perspectives and transferable skills. It addresses potential concerns about your career shift head-on, presenting your transition as an asset rather than a liability.

Tips For Writing A Career Change Cover Letter

1. Personalize Your Approach : Address the letter to a specific person whenever possible. Doing so demonstrates attention to detail and a genuine interest in the position. You want to show that you’re not conducting a generic job search, but that you’ve done your research. You’ve perused (not skimmed) the company website and you read that 20-page yearly report from the CEO. You’ve even read their blog and can quote freely from it. You’ve educated yourself.

2. Emphasize Transferable Skills : Highlight the skills and experiences from your previous roles that are relevant to the new position. Be specific and quantify achievements where possible.

3. Show Enthusiasm and Commitment : Employers want to know that you are genuinely interested in the new field. Express your passion for the career change and your eagerness to contribute.

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4. Tailor Your Narrative : Connect your past experiences to the job you're applying for, demonstrating how your unique background can bring a fresh perspective to the role.

5. Address Potential Concerns : Be upfront about your career change, framing it as a positive decision guided by clear motivation and a strong understanding of the new field.

6. End with a Strong Call to Action : Conclude by expressing your desire to discuss your application further in an interview, showing proactivity and determination.

7. Use Strategic Language : Avoid clichéd adjectives. Opt for vivid, specific language that paints a clear picture of your capabilities and achievements.

Example: General Career Change Cover Letter

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

I am excited to apply for the [Position] at [Company], transitioning from a career in [Current Industry] to [New Industry]. My experience in [Current Industry] has equipped me with valuable skills that I am eager to apply in [New Industry]. For instance, while working as [Previous Position], I developed a keen ability to [transferable skill], resulting in [specific achievement].

In [Current Industry], I honed my skills in [relevant skill] and demonstrated my ability to [relevant achievement], directly benefiting my team by [specific outcome]. I am particularly drawn to [New Industry] because [reason for interest], and I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to bring my [specific skill] and [another skill] to the [Position] at [Company].

[Your Name]

Tweaks For Various Career Stages

Whether you are making a change early in your career or transitioning later, your cover letter should reflect your rationale and excitement for this new path.

Example: Early Career Cover Letter

As someone at the early stages of my career, I am eager to leverage the foundational skills I gained in [Initial Field], such as [specific skill], in [New Field]. My recent role as [Previous Position] allowed me to develop [relevant skills or experiences], which align closely with the requirements of the [Position] at [Company].

Example: Late Career Cover Letter

Transitioning into [New Field] at this point in my career is a deliberate and enthusiastic choice, driven by my deep-seated interest in [aspect of New Field]. With extensive experience in [Previous Field], I bring a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective that can contribute to innovative solutions and strategies at [Company].

Tweaks For White And Blue-Collar Roles

Transitioning between white and blue-collar roles offers a unique opportunity to highlight diverse skills and experiences.

Example: White To Blue Collar Cover Letter

I am eager to apply the strategic and managerial skills honed in my white-collar career to the hands-on, dynamic environment of [Blue Collar Field]. My experience in [White Collar Role], where I developed [specific skills], aligns well with the challenges and responsibilities of the [Blue Collar Position] at [Company].

Example: Blue To White Collar Cover Letter

Transitioning from [Blue Collar Field] to [White Collar Field], I bring practical, on-the-ground experience that can inform and enhance the strategic decisions in [White Collar Role]. My background in [Blue Collar Role], where I mastered [specific skills], equips me with a unique perspective beneficial for the [White Collar Position] at [Company].

Including A Career Change Statement On Your Resume/CV

While your cover letter is the ideal place to elaborate on your career change, your resume/CV should also reflect this transition. A brief career change statement, positioned at the beginning of your resume, can effectively set the context for your career narrative. This statement should succinctly convey your transition, emphasizing your commitment to the new field and highlighting any transferable skills or relevant experiences.

How To Craft A Career Change Statement For Your Resume

1. Objective Statement : Begin with a clear, concise objective that outlines your career goals and demonstrates your enthusiasm for your new field.

2. Summary of Qualifications : Follow your objective with a brief summary of your most relevant qualifications, focusing on skills and experiences that transition well into your new career.

3. Highlight Transferable Skills : Clearly identify and emphasize any skills from your previous career that are pertinent to your new path. This not only demonstrates your capability but also shows your proactive approach in aligning your skill set with the new role's requirements.

4. Tailor Your Experience : Adjust the descriptions of your past positions to highlight the responsibilities and achievements most relevant to your desired career path. Use quantifiable achievements to underscore your adaptability and impact.

5. Education and Training : If you have pursued any education or training relevant to your new field, highlight this prominently on your resume to illustrate your dedication and commitment to your career change.

Make Your Language Unique

To avoid sounding like everyone else, remember to use distinctive and precise adjectives in your cover letter and resume. For instance:

• Instead of "experienced," try "seasoned" or "accomplished," providing specific examples that demonstrate this experience, like spearheading a successful project or leading a team to exceed its targets.
• Replace "passionate" with "enthused" or "committed," detailing a project or initiative you pursued with zeal, which can resonate more authentically with hiring managers.
• Substitute "results-driven" with "outcome-focused," illustrating this with a particular scenario where your focus on results led to tangible success for your organization.

Your cover letter and resume are your advocates, narrating your professional journey and articulating why you are not just seeking a new job, but embarking on a new career with purpose and passion. By carefully crafting these documents to reflect your individual story, you position yourself as a memorable and compelling candidate, someone who stands out from the crowd.

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How To Write a Cover Letter With Examples

Cover letters can help differentiate you from other job applicants and be the determining factor of landing your dream job. By taking the time to craft a custom cover letter, a single sheet of paper can help communicate all the human elements that a resume may fall short of capturing about yourself. 

But what do employers and recruiters have to say about how to write a cover letter? What are the best tips they have to offer for graduate students who are writing a cover letter?

We asked 11 employers for their best cover letter tips. Here is what they had to share.

Let it Set the Stage

In many ways, cover letters should provide background information and context to your resume, while simultaneously addressing how that resume addresses the specific requirements of the job opportunity. The cover letter is your opportunity to "set the stage" and to convince the hiring manager why your specific set of skills, experiences and interests will provide value to their team and its objectives.

Andrew Horrigan '11 BSBA (Management Information Systems), Product Manager at Cisco

Research the Hiring Manager

If possible, find out who the hiring manager is and look them up on LinkedIn. Do your research on the company you're applying for. What's their mission statement and how do they portray their company culture? Hopefully what you're looking for in a job is reflected by those things. Make sure the hiring manager knows that and understands who you are and what drives you. A resume is often about as robotic as things can be. Make sure your cover letter is the opposite—personalize it and let yourself shine through.

Joshua Schlag ’05 BS (Computer Science) ’11 MBA, Digital Marketing Manager at Pyramid Analytics

Utilize Career Development Resources

The University of Arizona and Eller College of Management go to great lengths to make sure students are prepared for their impending career journey. Because cover letters are so important to getting your foot in the door, there are several career development resources online and on campus to take advantage of. The university’s cover letter builder serves as a nice template to get started. And of course, it never hurts to make an appointment with an Eller Career Coach through eSMS to have a professional review your letter before submission. 

Brett Farmiloe, ’06 BSBA (Accounting), Founder, Featured

Discover Past Samples of the Position

Do your research on the company and personalize your cover letter to the role for which you are applying. Don't be afraid to Google, "How to write a good cover letter for X position." Seriously, it helps! There is so much information out there from various perspectives—applicants, hiring managers, etc. Most importantly be yourself and let your personality come through. And don't forget to spell check!

Mariam Nikola '17 MS MIS, Consultant at Point B

Highlight Your Soft Skills

When writing a professional cover letter, there are a couple things you can do to set yourself apart from the pack. First, make sure you tailor your letter to the specific position you are applying for. This should not be a general, "one size fits all" letter—be sure to discuss specific details surrounding the role or the company itself. Secondly, this is an opportunity for you to show a little bit of your personality. Obviously, you want to remain professional, but this is a great time to highlight some of your soft skills that might not be fully conveyed through your resume.  

Brian Ellis ’17 BSBA (Management), Staffing Manager at Randstad Office and Administrative Professionals

Fill in the “Why” Gaps

As a talent advisor, I review a lot of applicants and agree that a cover letter can be a great way to stand apart, if it is done correctly. A great cover letter for me covers the ‘why’ that I cannot understand from just a resume alone. It should clearly state why you are interested in the role, what your goals are for utilizing your graduate degree (if recently graduated) and explain any career pivots reflected on your resume. If you answer those questions in a direct, concise manner it will add value to your application.

Monica Larson , ’11 BSBA (Marketing) ‘20 MBA, Talent Advisor

Tell Your Story

A cover letter is your opportunity to tell your story—tying your experience and personal interests into why you want a position and why you are the best candidate for it. Paint the picture of your journey and what about the position excites you personally and professionally. Similar to your resume, keep it short and sweet. No need to repeat what’s already on your resume. Recruiters and hiring managers don’t have time to comb through a novel, so you need to engage them with as few words as possible while also grabbing their attention.

Kelly Castoro, ’06 BA (Spanish, Portuguese), Project Manager at Squarespace

Tailor Each Cover Letter to the Position You Are Applying

Be sure to research the role and customize your cover letter for each position, relating your experience to the particular role you are applying for. Personalization is key—research who you are sending the cover letter to and address the letter to them directly. End your letter with a call to action, stating you will follow up by phone or email if you haven’t heard from anyone. Follow ups are very important! 

Jessica Rosenzweig, ’15 BSBA (Business Management), Account Manager at PeopleWare Staffing

Communicate Bankability and Personality 

Your cover letter answers two crucial questions; are you bankable and are you someone the company will enjoy working with? Communicate bankability with your knowledge of the company, industry and why your skills, capabilities and interests are a great fit. Share your passion for their mission, culture, brand—whatever excites you about becoming a member of their team.  

When conveyed through a concise, well-formulated, well-worded cover letter, you demonstrate the ability to write an effective business case—communicating that you are a ready professional and worthy teammate who will hit the ground running.

Theresa L Garcia, ’83 BSBA (Human Resources), Senior Change Management and Organization Capability Consultant at Boeing

Keep it Concise but Compelling

A cover letter is your chance to speak directly to the hiring team and tell them why you are not only the best match for the position for which you are applying but also give them additional insight into yourself as an individual that is less visible from your experience.

A great cover letter should be attention grabbing and touch upon the qualities that make you stand out from others in the applicant pool, highlight both your recent and most distinguished accomplishments and drive home why you are the right person for the job. Professionalism is always important, but don’t be hesitant to put your voice into the letter to let your personality shine through. Research the company, understand where they currently are, where they are going and show why you are the right person to get them from point A to point B. Recruiters spend a lot of time reviewing applicants and making yourself stand apart from the crowd is key. Keep it concise but compelling!

Matt Reineberg, ’14 BSBA (Marketing), Senior Talent Acquisition Sourcer at Cox Enterprises

Highlight the “Why”

Why are you applying to this company? Why do you want this position? Your cover letter should aim to answer the why behind applying for the job. Conveying an interest and excitement for working specifically for this job at this company, rather than a desire to get any job anywhere that will give you money, can go a long way. Show the company that they should hire you and your passion over someone that might have the skills needed for the job, but doesn’t care about the work as much as you do. 

Ryan Nouis, Trupath 

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Microsoft Software Engineer Resume for 2024 [Example & Template]

Home Blog Web Development Microsoft Software Engineer Resume for 2024 [Example & Template]

The demand for software engineers has been high in the past decade. This means that plenty of opportunities are available for professionals with efficient skills. As someone who specializes in software engineering, I think you need to create the best resume before you can apply for these job roles. This is especially relevant when applying to globally renowned technology companies like Microsoft. But I will tell you this: just because you know how to build server-side applications or develop cloud solutions does not mean you will be considered for interviews with such tech giants. That is why you must create a Microsoft software engineer resume that meets the needs of the company. In this guide, I will provide detailed tips and tricks for creating a standout resume. I will also highlight how to draft a Microsoft software engineer cover letter to complement your application.

You may also check these Software Engineering courses for beginners to grab job opportunities.

Resume Format - Microsoft Software Engineer

The Microsoft software engineer resume format should stand out among the crowd when you apply for a job position. That is why I have curated some key points that you must remember when preparing a resume for a Microsoft software engineer .

A. Create a Solid Microsoft Software Engineer Resume Structure/Template

Let me start by suggesting some critical sections that you must add to your Microsoft software engineer CV. These include

• A header with contact details
• Portfolio or essential social media profiles
• An experience section
• Your technical and social abilities
• An education and certificate section

Here is a sample Microsoft software engineer resume structure that can help you draft your document.

I have attached another Microsoft software engineer resume template in PDF format so you can understand how to create a Microsoft software engineer resume.

B. Work Experience Section

The work experience section is the most important part of a Microsoft software engineer resume. I have curated the things to keep in mind when working on the work experience section.

• Your work experience should always be in reverse chronological order.
• Every entry should include your job title, the start and end dates, company name, and location.
• Be sure to list accomplishments and job duties.
• Use numbers and metrics to make your accomplishments stand out, if necessary.

Here is an example of a work experience sample.

What if You Don’t Have Work Experience?

I recommend adding any skills in the job application you may have picked up during your days at an educational institute or as an intern in some organization. You can also highlight your documentation, like a Web Development certificate .

Here is a sample fresher Microsoft software engineer resume for your reference.

C. Contact Information

Make sure you are listing the following must-include information in your contact information on the Microsoft software engineer resume:

• Phone Number
• Email Address

D. Add Your Education

What you include in the education section of your Microsoft software engineer resume is based on several things. It usually depends on whether you are applying for an entry-level software engineering role or a more senior role.

The following image is the best example.

E. Include Microsoft Software Engineer Skills Tailored to the Job

A software engineer has multiple roles, which is why I advise adding some important skills according to your job. These include:

• Experience in Programming Languages
• System Design and Algorithmic Skills
• Cloud Computing
• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Skills

F. Summary or Objective

Adding a sentence or two of summary or objective to the Microsoft software engineer resume is important. It enables the hiring managers to get a quick glimpse of the candidate.

Here is a sample:

G. Use Action Words to Strengthen Your Resume

Action words or verbs always help bring your resume to life by painting a picture for the hiring committee and affirming your skills.

Here are some action verb examples:

H. Add Extra Sections to Your Resume

Extra sections can always help you stand out among other candidates. This usually includes adding:

• Awards and Certification: These help showcase all your professional achievements.
• Languages: Proficiency in multiple languages showcases your versatility across various regions.
• Interests & Hobbies: They provide a glimpse into your personality. This further contributes to an efficient and engaging profile.

I. Write a Microsoft Software Engineer Cover Letter

A cover letter serves as a complement to your resume. It helps you to showcase your skills, knowledge, and your personality as a candidate. I have included a sample cover letter for your reference.

Best Practices to Make Your Resume Easy to Scan

Your Microsoft software engineer resume should not only be simple and straightforward but also ATS-friendly. To ensure your resume is easily scannable across all organizations, including Microsoft, I have listed the best practices in the form of do’s and don’ts below:

Microsoft Software Engineer Resume Example/Sample

A Microsoft software developer plays a crucial role in shaping technologies across organizations, with their contributions often impacting the functionality and user experience of various products and services. Now, let me provide you with some samples of Microsoft software developer resumes based on different levels of expertise.

Your career in software engineering will start by enrolling yourself as an intern across different organizations, including Microsoft.

Download this Software Engineer intern resume PDF link for your reference.

1. Entry-Level Resume

Even with limited experience as a fresh professional entering the software development field, you can still draft a perfect, fresher Microsoft software engineer resume that grabs the attention of the hiring committee. The best part is that you can apply to different roles as an entry-level software engineer across organizations, including Microsoft.

Meanwhile, I have curated this entry-level resume PDF link that you can check to prepare your CV accordingly.

2. Senior Software Developer Resume

A senior software developer's resume is unique and utterly different from the one you draft as an intern or an entry-level professional. You must highlight your educational qualifications, experience, and projects in detail when writing a senior software developer resume.

Here is a sample senior software engineer resume PDF link for your reference.

Top 10 Skills for a Microsoft Software Engineer Resume

Check out these top 10 skills you can add to your Microsoft software engineer resume:

• Communication: This can help in receiving all kinds of information and discussing issues openly.
• Adaptability: It can help you adapt to new methods and techniques.
• Troubleshooting: These capabilities can help identify problems in systems. This helps in developing appropriate resolution mechanisms.
• Collaboration:  You have to interact with other professionals and help them do their job as a software engineer working at Microsoft.
• Empathy: It showcases your ability to sympathize with other people. This can help you comprehend other individual's emotions and feelings.
• Programming Languages: You must know languages that act as a communication method between several software elements. These, in turn, allow an application to function efficiently.
• Object-oriented Programming: This popular software engineering approach is for large applications. Most of them have several functions and methods.
• Testing and Debugging:  You must know these two procedures that always help ensure that a particular software application performs its duties.
• Database Knowledge: You should have extensive knowledge of databases as a software engineer. These databases help explore, collect, and extract data across different systems.
• Source Control: This process includes managing changes to codes. The process is important for testing and debugging software development tools .

The field of software engineering is evolving, and the demand for these professionals is increasing across different sectors. Microsoft, being a tech giant, frequently has requirements for such professionals at senior or entry-level positions. However, as mentioned earlier, drafting a Microsoft software engineer resume is not everyone’s cup of tea. That is why you can take reference from the samples and example templates that I have added in this article to draft a fresh resume that will grab the attention of the management.

Now, what else do you need apart from a well-written resume? My answer would be relevant certifications that help you gain more skills as a software engineer. I recommend KnowledgeHut's Software Engineering courses for beginners . These courses can assist you when starting your career in software engineering and development.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Several certifications can prove useful for your Microsoft software engineer resume. Certifications are typically based on your specific field of work, credentials, and job opportunities. However, some of the more common ones you can include in your CV are a Web Development certificate and other documents related to software engineering or development courses.

Include jobs that equal or exceed your work experience as a software engineer. Each of your projects should demonstrate new skills or knowledge in a specific technical or soft skill area. However, under ‘work experience,’ avoid repeating skills or experiences you have already listed.

A bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field can add to your qualification in the Microsoft software engineer resume. For specific job opportunities, the tech giant's hiring committee may also require a master's degree. Ensure that you have programming skills and knowledge of various programming languages and that you have a formal education.

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Create your Europass CV

The Europass CV builder makes it easy to create your CV online. You can use it to apply for a job, education or training opportunities as well as volunteering.

The best-known CV format in Europe

The Europass CV is one of the best-known CV formats in Europe. It is easy-to-use and familiar to employers and education institutions.

You will first have to create your Europass profile with information on your education, training, work experience and skills. After you complete your Europass profile, you can create as many CVs as you want with just a few clicks. Just select which information you want to include, pick your favourite design and Europass will do the rest. 

You can create, store and share CVs in 31 languages . You can download your Europass CV, store it in your Europass Library share it with employers, with  EURES  or other job boards.

How to create a good CV

Remember that your CV is your first opportunity to communicate your skills and experiences to a future employer. It is a snapshot of who you are, your skills, your educational background, work experiences and other achievements.

Present your experience clearly

Highlight examples of your skills and experiences matching the job you are applying for. Pay close attention to the details published in the vacancy notice.

Tailor your CV

Make sure you update the ‘About Me’ section to highlight why you are the best person for the job. Do not include a full detailed history. Focus on facts and main points that match the job you have in mind.

Make it readable

Make sure your CV is easy to read. Use clear and simple language.  Use strong verbs (e.g. ‘managed’, ‘developed’, ‘increased’).

Use reverse chronological order

Always list the most recent experience on the top followed by previous ones. In case of long gaps in working or learning, include an explanation.

Polish and fine-tune

Check for spelling and grammar mistakes, provide a professional e-mail address, and add a professional photograph of yourself.

Your Europass profile

Your Europass profile is the place to keep a record of all your skills, qualifications and experiences. If you keep your Europass profile up-to-date then you will always have all the information you need to create tailored CVs and job applications quickly.

Good luck with your applications!

Find support through EU services

Eures the european job mobility portal, working abroad in other eu countries, education and training in other eu countries, you may be interested to read.

Create your Europass Cover Letter

Develop your skills through volunteering

Managing your personal information in Europass

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