How to Include Bullet Points in a Cover Letter

The purpose of a cover letter is to persuade hiring managers that you’re a good fit for the job. Think of it as being like a sales pitch: while a resume outlines the entirety of your related work experience and skills, your cover letter gives the highlights. The goal is to grab the hiring manager’s attention and convince them that your application should make it to the next round.

Of course, hiring managers and recruiters are busy. One study found that recruiters spend an average of just 7.4 seconds reviewing a resume before moving it to the “yes” or “no” pile. Adding bullets to your cover letter can help you make the most of those seconds, highlighting your relevant experience and matching it to the job listing’s requirements.

Readers may skim through your opening paragraph, but their eyes will automatically pause when they see a bulleted list of qualifications. There's something about the white space and the formatting of bullet points that's very eye-catching.

How to Include Bullet Points in a Cover Letter

Start your cover letter with an introductory paragraph that explains why you are writing. Then, when explaining your related experience, use a bullet for each of your job qualifications.

Each bullet point should include a concise phrase or sentence that begins with an action word; you can include a period at the end of each sentence. Avoid having too much text for each bullet point; once the text following a bullet point spreads to three lines, it might make more sense in paragraph form.

Avoid other symbols that might look too confusing or may not upload properly when you apply for jobs online. Keeping it simple will avoid funky formatting in your cover letter.

To generate your bullet points, match your qualifications to the job description. Include the skills that are the closest match to the job.

You might also include keywords related to the job, but not specifically listed in the job listing. To figure out which keywords to include, scan job postings for other, related positions at other companies, or scan this list of skills to include in a cover letter or resume.

As well as listing skills, you can use bullet points to convey accomplishments (e.g., "Drove record-breaking sales numbers.").

Use Business Letter Format

Follow business-letter format for your cover letter. If you send your cover letter via email, omit the’ address paragraphs and choose a clear subject line, e.g., “Teacher’s Aide Application – Kim Fleming.”

Letter Introduction

The first paragraph of your letter should include information on why you are writing.

Refer to the position you are applying for and tell the hiring manager where you found the job listing. If you were recommended by a contact, now’s the time to mention it.

Next, provide a brief introduction, followed by the bullets.

Bullet Points

• The middle section of your cover letter should include what you have to offer.
• Mention how your qualifications match the job you are applying for.
• Highlight your most relevant experience and accomplishments.
• Show the employer why you're a great match.
• Be selective: you don’t need to include every skill and achievement, no matter how impressive they might be. Restrict yourself to qualifications that match the job description and show that you’re an outstanding fit for the position.

Letter Closing

Finish your cover letter with a closing paragraph and your signature.

Tips for Writing Bullet Points

When you’re writing your bullet points, don’t copy from your resume or from the employer’s job posting. Take the time to write unique statements for each, based on your qualifications for the job. Include 3-6 bullet points listing your expertise and accomplishments.

Once you’ve set up your letter with an introduction, bullets, and a closing, you can simply swap out the bullet points when you write each new cover letter. It is a quick and easy way to customize your job application letters for each position you apply for.

Cover Letter Bulleted List Examples

• Manage company communications including extensive social media experience.
• Experience with C+, UNIX, Shell, and Python scripting.
• Work with students to educate and prepare them for careers using career advising techniques, career development strategies, and career preparation techniques.
• Experience as a teacher’s aide in elementary school classrooms.
• Certified human resources professional with extensive recruiting and hiring experience.
• Manage complex projects from start to completion while ensuring client satisfaction and meeting all scheduled dates.

Cover Letter Sample With Bullets

Email Cover Letter Sample With Bullets