Having worked with organizations in Europe, North America, and Asia, Sofia discusses regional differences in application processes and professional expectations, sharing unique insights to each.

Sofia Chambers

Writing tips

Did you know that a recruiter spends only 7 seconds scanning a resume? Research by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.theladders.com/static/images/basicSite/pdfs/TheLadders-EyeTracking-StudyC2.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ladders</a> shows that the majority of resumes are read for a mere 7 to 9 seconds before the recruiters decide to contact an applicant. So, it is crucial to make a great first impression. A quality cover letter can set you apart from the competition, showcasing your personality and strong sides. But again, most of the students and job seekers don't know what a cover letter is and in what form they should write one. In this guide, we will provide you with step-by-step guide, tips, and cover letter examples that will help you write an exceptional cover letter.<h2>What is a Cover Letter?</h2>A cover letter is a document that you include with your resume to introduce yourself to potential employers. It is aimed at explaining why you are the best fit for the position and gives a glimpse of your work attitude and personality. In a nutshell, cover letter complements your resume by providing important additional information. It also highlights your skills and experiences relevant to the job. Moreover, cover letter also reveals your communication style.A well-structured cover letter includes three key sections:<ol><li>Introduction</li><li>Main Body</li><li>Conclusion</li></ol>Next, we’ll provide practical tips on how to format each section correctly to increase your chances of receiving a positive response.<h2>How to Start a Cover Letter</h2>A cover letter follows the same structure as a standard business letter. It starts with your contact information and is typically addressed to a specific person.&nbsp;<h3>Introduction Part</h3>While writing a cover letter, you need to be very careful with the introductory section since it’s your first step in grabbing the attention of the reader (hiring manager, potential employer, etc.) and making them read your cover letter until the end.Basically, the cover letter starts with a greeting. Depending on whether you know the person or not, you can use different alternatives. For instance, if you know the recipient's name, you can use specific greetings like "Dear Mr. Tomas" or "Dear Ms. Antonina."If the recipient's name is unknown, you can address your letter by specialty (i.e., "Dear Hiring Manager," "Dear Client Manager," or "Dear Recruiter."). It is also acceptable to write to the entire company team (e.g., "Dear Recruiting Team," "Dear Customer Service Department," "Dear Apple Team," etc.).We recommend that you state your intention in the very first paragraph of the cover letter. For example, mention immediately that you are writing regarding a vacant position. Also, you should also include where you had found the job's ad. If you are writing on the recommendation of this company’s employee, don't forget to state their name and position.<h3>Main Body</h3>The main section of the cover letter is the most important part that conveys your interest and motivation in working for the particular company. We recommend that you state the reasons why you want to apply for the vacant position and point out how your previous skills may be suited for it. In simple words, give several reasons why the company should hire you.It is crucial, however, not to overpraise the company and yourself. It would be better to talk about your particular achievements outlined in your resume in detail. For example, if you are applying for the position of software engineer, you can start explaining a successful project that you implemented.As for the style of writing cover letter, be clear and convincing. Do not add any unnecessary information to your cover letter. And it's better to omit such meaningless words as "attentive", "stress-resistant", "competent", etc. Only real achievements will make you a true professional.We recommend starting the main section with the following sentences:<pre><code class="language-plaintext">I am highly interested in your vacancy because…
I have always dreamed of working in this field.
I would be thrilled to work with you to further develop my skills in…
If you have had an opportunity to look over my resume, you may have seen that I already had experience in…
If you have had an opportunity to look over my resume, you may have seen that I already had experience in…
I believe that my experience will help you…</code></pre>It is also worth considering how to conclude your cover letter because it is also a very important part of this document.<h3>How to End a Cover Letter</h3>The way how you end your cover letter has a very straightforward mission: to convince the employer to invite you for an interview. Below are some general tips to make a good impression on the recruiter:<ol><li>Mention your resume – Confidently state that you have attached your resume to consider.</li><li>Express your interest in an interview – Let the employer know that you are looking forward to hearing about the prospect in the near future.</li><li>Suggest a convenient rime – Indicate when you are available for a meeting or call. This way, you will show initiative and enthusiasm to move ahead.</li><li>Repeat your contact information – It is simple to make the recruiter contact you easily by repeating your phone number and email towards the end.</li></ol>Besides, closing your cover letter with gratitude always makes a positive impression. You can include some of these commonly used phrases:<ul><li>Thank you for your time and consideration.</li><li>I appreciate your attention to my application.</li><li>Thank you for reviewing my application.</li><li>Looking forward to your response. Thank you!</li><li>I appreciate the opportunity and hope to discuss further.</li></ul>A polite and confident closing sets the right tone and increases your chances of a positive response.<h3>Cover Letter Format</h3>Proper formatting is the crucial element, since it makes your cover letter readable, professional, and easy to understand. Don’t forget that recruiters have only 7 seconds to scan your cover letter, so don't waste this time with unreadable fonts and messy layout. Properly formatted cover letter improves your first impression, so be attentive to it. Here is a simple guide from JustDone’s specialists:<ul><li>Use a standard font (e.g., Arial, Times New Roman) of 10-12 points. Your fantasy has no place in the cover letter, keep it simple and professional.</li><li>Have a professional structure with sharp-cut sections: introduction, body, and conclusion.</li><li>Keep your cover letter up to one page with all the key information.</li></ul>We know that sometimes, proper formatting can seem challenging and time-consuming. But you don't necessarily have to do it yourself if you don't want to.&nbsp;<a href="/ai-writing/cover-letter-generator">JustDone's cover letter generator</a> offers templates that can assist you in organizing your document correctly and save your time.<h3>Real-Life Scenarios and Examples</h3>Based on my own experiences, I remember applying for an administrative assistant position. I wrote the cover letter to emphasize my organizational skills and work experience in a stressful environment. Having almost no time to craft a professional-like cover letter, I used a cover letter builder which helped me simplify my thoughts into short and sweet points. No need to tell how happy I was with an interview invitation!Similarly, one of my best friends used a graphic design cover letter to showcase her portfolio in the most effective way. She combined visual and written accomplishment that matched perfectly the job qualifications. All with the help of the cover letter generator too.<h3>Best Practices and Tips</h3>We prepared some practical tips that can help you improve your cover letter. Here they are:<ol><li>Create a template of your cover letter, but always make it personal for each job application.</li><li>Use keywords from the job posting to synchronize your abilities with the employer's demands.</li><li>Don't repeat your resume - tailor your cover letter to the job requirements. Instead of listing your experience, highlight your achievements and the main reason why the company should employ you.</li><li>Check the result for spelling and grammatical mistakes.</li></ol>By following these practices, you will impress hiring managers significantly and boost your chances to get the job many times.<h2>Craft Your Path to Success With Cover Letter</h2>A cover letter is your opportunity to talk about yourself and reveal your unique talents and persona to potential employers. Don't miss this chance - start with an effective intro, enhance the impression with the main body, end with proper gratitude, and keep the format accurate. With our professional guidance and real-life examples, you are now well-equipped to construct an effective cover letter that can make a successful impression on employers. We wish you to proceed confidently with your search for the best job!

Unlock the secrets to creating impactful cover letters that get you noticed.

Master Your Cover Letter Writing

Whether you're submitting your first research paper or preparing a group project, mastering how to make a cover page can set your work apart. A well-designed cover page not only creates a strong first impression but also demonstrates your attention to detail. Students often struggle with formatting, style choices, and understanding the differences between APA and MLA requirements. In this comprehensive guide, you'll learn what a cover page is, see practical examples, and discover tips for creating a cover page that gets noticed, plus, how AI tools like JustDone can simplify the process.<h2>What Is a Cover Page?</h2>At its core, a cover page is the introductory sheet that precedes the main content of your academic work. It typically displays essential information such as the title, author's name, institutional affiliation, course details, and date. But what is a cover page? It's more than just a formality—it's your opportunity to make a professional impression and provide context for your reader. Different academic styles, like APA or MLA, have specific cover page requirements, and understanding these nuances is crucial for students aiming for top marks.In my years as a student and later as a content creator, I've seen professors place unexpected emphasis on cover page presentation. A messy or incomplete cover page can undermine even the best content within. So, mastering this skill isn't just about following rules—it's about communicating professionalism and care from the very first glance.<h2>Why Does the Cover Page Matter?</h2>The cover page serves several important purposes:<ul><li>First Impressions: It’s the first thing your instructor sees, setting the tone for the rest of your work.</li><li>Organization: It helps instructors and reviewers quickly identify your paper, the topic, and who submitted it.</li><li>Credibility: A polished cover page demonstrates attention to detail and respect for academic standards.</li></ul>I've witnessed students lose points for omitting required elements or using inconsistent formatting. Having a checklist and following style guides closely can save you from these common pitfalls.<h2>Key Elements of a Great Cover Page</h2>While specifics may vary, every great cover page includes the following:<ol><li>Title of the Paper</li><li>Author’s Name</li><li>Institutional Affiliation</li><li>Course Name and Number</li><li>Instructor’s Name</li><li>Date of Submission</li></ol><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><th>Element</th><th>APA</th><th>MLA</th></tr><tr><th>Title</th><th>Centered, bold</th><th>Centered, plain text</th></tr><tr><th>Author</th><th>Centered, under title</th><th>Below the title, double-spaced</th></tr></tbody></table></figure>Each academic style has its quirks, so always double-check your assignment guidelines.<h2>APA Cover Page Example</h2>APA style is widely used in the social sciences. An APA cover page example typically looks like this:<blockquote>Title of Your Paper (centered, bold, three to four lines down from the top)&nbsp; Your Name&nbsp; Institutional Affiliation&nbsp; Course Number and Name&nbsp; Instructor Name&nbsp; Due Date</blockquote>Example: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The Effects of Sleep on Academic Performance
 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jane Doe
 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;University of Example
 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;PSY 101: Introduction to Psychology
 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Dr. Smith
 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;June 1, 2024
 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<ul><li>Double-space all text</li><li>Include a page number in the top right corner</li><li>Do not use fancy fonts—stick to Times New Roman, 12pt</li></ul>Tip: Tools like JustDone can format your APA cover page automatically—just input your details and let the AI handle the rest, saving time and reducing errors.<h2>MLA Cover Page Example</h2>The MLA format is common in the humanities. While MLA papers often don’t require a separate cover page, some instructors may still request one. Here’s an MLA cover page example:<blockquote>Title of Your Paper (centered, one-third down the page)&nbsp; Your Name&nbsp; Instructor’s Name&nbsp; Course Name&nbsp; Date</blockquote>Example: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Exploring Shakespearean Themes
 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;John Smith
 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Prof. Johnson
 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;ENG 202: British Literature
 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;15 March 2024
 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<ul><li>Use double spacing</li><li>Do not bold, italicize, or underline the title</li><li>Use a legible font like Times New Roman, 12pt</li></ul>Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about formatting, JustDone’s file formatting tools can double-check your MLA cover page layout, ensuring consistency with the latest standards.<h2>Step-by-Step: How to Make a Cover Page</h2>I gathered practical steps that you need to know to write your cover page in a proper format. So what constitutes a cover page that’s effective, resultative, and easy to read?&nbsp;<ol><li>Refer to Your Assignment: The first thing you should always do is follow your assignment guidelines and check what information should be on your cover page. That can range from APA to MLA, to even some custom requirements your instructor may ask for. Each format has its specific format details, so it’s important to know them before you start.&nbsp;</li><li>Start a New Document: Fire up your word processor and start a new document. This is where the miracle begins! Be sure to set your margins correctly — for a clean look, 1-inch margins all around are the best way to go. Also, don’t forget to set the correct font – Times New Roman in 12pt is the default option for most academic papers.</li><li>Structure Your Title: Finally, polish off the title! Align your title depending on which style guide you’re adhering to. For APA, for example, it should be centered and bold—this is a quick way to mark it as different, right from the start. The title can draw in your reader and provide them with a foreshadowing of what to expect.&nbsp;</li><li>Add Personal Information: Your name, the name of the educational institution, the course title, the name of your instructor, and the date should be included as a must in your cover page. Be sure to set all these elements in the correct order, depending on the style guide you adopt to sound professional.&nbsp;</li><li>Double-Check Spacing and Alignment: After you have all of your elements together, don’t forget to double-check the spacing and alignment. Although you might not find this a big deal, but believe me, an adequately spaced cover page will become the reason how your work is perceived. Your cover page needs to look clear, accurate, and tidy.</li><li>Final Proofread: Make sure you proofread the cover page for typos, misspelling, and other inconsistencies.&nbsp;Even the most brilliant paper can lose its shine if the cover page has mistakes.</li><li>Save as PDF: If you want to use your cover page digitally and avoid possible file-formatting issues, save your document as a PDF. This way, you can be sure your work will look good, no matter which device or software the recipient uses to open it.</li></ol>Personal Insight: I once lost points for a minor alignment issue—don’t underestimate the power of a good proofreading session! If you’re tight on time, JustDone’s document generation tools can help you automate these steps, ensuring you never miss a detail.&nbsp;<h2>Tips for Creating a Cover Page That Stands Out</h2>Here are my top&nbsp;tips for creating a cover page that leaves a lasting impression:<ul><li>Stick to Guidelines: Always follow your institution’s or instructor’s preferred format.</li><li>Keep It Clean and Simple: Avoid colors, graphics, or unusual fonts unless specifically requested. Just really figure out the most essential things that need to go on a cover page.</li><li>Be Consistent: Match fonts and spacing with the rest of your paper.</li><li>Proofread: Typos or inconsistencies on the cover page can undermine your credibility. So, find a proofreader you trust who can help you edit and polish your cover page.</li><li>Use AI Tools: Platforms like JustDone can automatically format, review, and even generate cover pages based on your input. By using this tool, you can reduce the risk of human error, making sure the format is right.</li></ul>Scenario: Imagine you’re juggling multiple deadlines. Rather than spending precious time on formatting, you could use JustDone’s summarization and file tools to quickly generate or check cover pages, freeing you up to focus on research and writing.&nbsp;<h2>Common Mistakes to Avoid</h2>Through experience, I’ve seen students make these frequent errors that can really impact the quality of their work and even their future opportunities:<ul><li>Using decorative fonts or colors: While it might be tempting to spice things up with funky fonts or eye-popping colors, this can create a jarring experience for your readers. A clean, professional look is not only easier on the eyes but also conveys the seriousness of your subject matter. Remember, technology has advanced to a point where simple yet effective design tools can help you achieve this without breaking a sweat!</li><li>Incorrect order of elements: Whether it’s the sequence of your arguments or the layout of your document, getting the order wrong can confuse your readers and dilute your message. It’s crucial to present information logically. Think of it this way: the future of effective communication relies on clarity and coherence, and getting the order right is a fundamental step toward that goal.</li><li>Omitting required information: Skipping out on key details can lead to misunderstandings or even missed opportunities. Always double-check what’s required and make sure you’re covering all bases. In our tech-driven world, a single missing piece of information can have lasting impacts, so it’s worth taking the time to be thorough.</li><li>Formatting inconsistently with the main document: Consistency is key in any kind of document, be it a report, essay, or presentation. If your formatting is all over the place, it can distract from your content and make you look unprofessional. With the right technology tools, you can ensure that your formatting is not only consistent but also enhances the readability of your work, making a positive impact on your audience.</li><li>Overcrowding the page with unnecessary details: Less is often more! Filling your page with every bit of information you can think of can overwhelm your readers and obscure your main points. Instead, focus on what’s most important to convey. The future of effective communication lies in the ability to distill complex ideas into digestible pieces, and that’s a skill worth honing.</li></ul>Staying organized and using reliable tools can help you sidestep these mistakes. If you’re ever unsure, JustDone’s chat feature can answer your formatting questions in real-time, offering peace of mind. With the right support and a little attention to detail, you can navigate the complexities of document creation and set yourself up for success in a technology-driven future.&nbsp;<h3>Mastering Your Cover Page: The Student Advantage</h3>A cover page is your academic handshake—it introduces your work, sets expectations, and shows professionalism. By understanding what a cover page is, following APA or MLA guidelines, and applying best practices, you’ll create cover pages that impress every time. Remember to double-check instructions, proofread carefully, and take advantage of smart tools like JustDone to save time and reduce stress. Now, you’re ready to tackle your next assignment with confidence—starting from the very first page!

Learn how to design a cover page that stands out and effectively represents your content.

Craft the Perfect Cover Page

If you’re trying to get into a graduate program, finding out about job opportunities that haven’t been listed yet, or want to get a professional collaboration, you should know how to write a Letter of Intent (LOI). However, for lots of students, it is challenging because they’re never quite sure where to start or how to get the thoughts they have into a proper format. This guide is here to help you understand these things, providing a plain-English explanation of what an LOI is and how to write one that really works.<h2>What is a Letter of Intent?</h2>A Letter of Intent is a document that helps you to say who you are and why you’d like to be a part of what someone else is doing. With an LOI, you can apply for a job position, indicate that you'd like to join up to work with a team, program, or opportunity that doesn't exist yet, effectively. These letters are used in different cases: students use LOIs when applying to grad school, professionals use LOIs in business to land deals and future gigs at a company.While a casual message or email could be quickly absorbed and discarded, an LOI has the form and function of an official offering. It’s a professional introduction designed to work for you both now and later.<h2>Letter of Intent vs. Cover Letter</h2>It’s easy to confuse a letter of intent with a cover letter, but there are key differences. A cover letter is usually tailored to a specific job opening and highlights how your skills match the job description. An LOI, on the other hand, is broader; it’s about expressing interest in an organization or opportunity, even if a specific position hasn’t been advertised.<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Feature</td><td>Letter of Intent</td><td>Cover Letter</td></tr><tr><td>Purpose</td><td style="padding:5pt;vertical-align:top;">Express interest in a company or intention</td><td style="padding:5pt;vertical-align:top;">Apply for a specific job</td></tr><tr><td>Focus</td><td style="padding:5pt;vertical-align:top;">Goals, fit, and potential</td><td style="padding:5pt;vertical-align:top;">Skills match to job</td></tr><tr><td style="padding:5pt;vertical-align:top;">When Used</td><td style="padding:5pt;vertical-align:top;">No specific opening</td><td style="padding:5pt;vertical-align:top;">Job is posted</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>Real-life example: Imagine you're passionate about working for a tech company whose mission aligns with yours, but they don’t have any job openings posted. Sending a letter of intent allows you to express interest in a company, introduce yourself, and get on their radar for future opportunities.<h2>When to Use a Letter of Intent</h2>You can write a LOI for various purposes. Among the most popular, business and academic ones are key. Utilize a letter of intent in the following situations:<ul><li>When you find an employer that aligns with your interests and career aspirations but there are no relevant job listings.</li><li>If you've learned that an employer has hiring intentions despite not having any open positions advertised.</li><li>When there are job postings from the employer for other roles, yet they also seek professionals in your field of expertise.</li><li>To establish or reinforce connections with a company after attending a networking event.</li></ul><h2>Essential Techniques for Writing an LOI</h2>Remember, your letter of intent should not bore your readers. So be sure it sounds confident, polite, and clear. We recommend utilizing these tips to draft your letter of intent:&nbsp;<ul><li>Research the Recipient: Customize your letter to the company or organization to which you are applying to show your sincere interest.&nbsp;</li><li>Be Direct and to the Point: Don’t use an overly technical style of writing when you can simply get to the point.&nbsp;</li><li>Write Your Letter With A Logical Structure: Set up the letter in standard business form: your address in the top right hand of the paper, the date a couple of lines below it, the name and address of the recipient somewhere on the left hand side of the page, a salutation, a body of the letter, and a closing.&nbsp;</li><li>Reveal Your Purpose: Open up and share your excitement about this opportunity and how it forces you to push the limits.&nbsp;</li></ul>If you are still finding it difficult to write the letter of intent, then JustDone's <a href="https://justdone.com/ai-business/ai-letter-generator" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AI letter generator</a> can be your helping hand by giving you personalized templates and ideas according to your requirements.<h2>Drafting a Letter of Intent for Employment Opportunities</h2>Writing a letter of intent for a job consists of typical formal elements. First, start with a greeting and, in the first paragraph, express your interest in the position. Introduce yourself and your context with a few brief sentences and a description of experience specific to the position.&nbsp;Then, explain your purpose and refer to the specific job: "I am applying for the position of... which you posted in...". Be precise and to the point. To convince your recipient you fit the bill, showcase your skills. Show off your expertise and any experience that would make you a great fit for the position.&nbsp;Lastly, be enthusiastic and show that you're excited to have the chance to work for the company. This will demonstrate that you’re an ambitious applicant, have relevant skills, and are motivated to work with the company.&nbsp;You can also use the AI tools available in JustDone to polish your language and make your accomplishments stand out in front of hiring managers.&nbsp;<h2>Academic Applications and LOIs</h2>Letters of Intent are frequently written by students who are searching for graduate programs. Depending on your background and soft skills, we suggest you include your objectives, academic accomplishments, and future goals. To make your intentions clear in the LOI, write down what interests you most in this academic program and how the program aligns with your goals.&nbsp;Demonstrate your academic achievements - include any coursework, university projects, or research skills you have that are relevant to the position you’re applying for.&nbsp;Last but not least, write about yourself and your future aspirations, and discuss how this opportunity will help you achieve your future academic and career goals.<h2>What to Avoid in a Letter of Intent</h2>When drafting a letter of intent, try not to include a few common pitfalls. By doing this, you will improve your letter’s efficiency and sound like a professional. Here are the most popular mistakes to get rid of:<ul><li>Lack of Specificity: It is important to be clear about your intentions, objectives, and the ways in which you can contribute. Avoid being overly vague.</li><li>Overlooking Research: Failing to tailor your letter of intent (LOI) to the specific recipient, be it a corporation, educational institution, or another organization, can indicate a lack of diligence. Personalize your letter by referencing particular elements of the program, project, or position that piqued your interest and how your skills or aspirations align with these aspects.</li><li>Ignoring Structure and Format: Submitting a LOI without a professional layout may leave a negative first impression. Adhere to a business letter format and ensure that your LOI is well-structured for ease of reading and comprehension.</li><li>Grammatical Errors and Typos: Errors in spelling, grammar, or punctuation can undermine your professionalism and attention to detail. It is advisable to proofread your LOI several times or utilize tools like JustDone to identify mistakes.</li></ul>The AI-driven letter-writing feature from JustDone streamlines composing an effective LOI. With just a few clicks, you can generate an initial draft, refine it, ensuring that your letter is error-free, maintains a professional tone, and aligns with your intent perfectly.<h2>Letter of Intent Example</h2>With the help of our tool JustDone, we generated a well-structured letter of intent example. Look at it, analyze its style and structure, and use it as a draft for your personalized LOI.<pre><code class="language-plaintext">[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Recipient’s Name]
[Their Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I’m reaching out to express my interest in collaborating with [Company Name] as a freelance professional on your upcoming [Project Name or Type] initiative. With a strong background in [Your Industry/Field] and hands-on experience managing complex, results-driven projects, I believe I can offer valuable support to your team.

For over [Number of Years] years, I’ve worked extensively in [Relevant Skills or Services], building a portfolio that reflects both creative vision and strategic execution. One of my recent projects, [Brief Project Name or Description], led to [Key Outcome or Result], demonstrating my ability to deliver tangible results under pressure.

I’m especially enthusiastic about this opportunity because of [Mention Specific Reason – e.g., company reputation, project impact, shared values]. I’m confident that my experience in [Mention Relevant Skill or Tool] will allow me to contribute meaningfully and help achieve your goals efficiently and effectively.

If selected for this project, I would be ready to deliver:
- [Key Deliverable or Service]
- [Another Key Contribution or Responsibility]
- [Any Additional Value or Support Offered]

I’ve included my portfolio and references for your consideration and would welcome the chance to discuss how we can work together to bring this project to life. Please let me know a convenient time for a call or meeting.

Thank you for considering this proposal. I’m excited about the possibility of contributing to [Company Name] and look forward to speaking with you soon.

Warm regards,
[Your Name]</code></pre><h2>Final Thoughts on Writing a Letter of Intent</h2>In conclusion, writing a Letter of Intent is a vital skill for students and professionals aiming to express their interest in various opportunities. By following the essential techniques provided in this guide, you can create a well-structured and compelling LOI. Remember to leverage JustDone’s unique AI tools to enhance your writing process and ensure your LOI stands out.

Step-by-step guide to craft compelling LOIs for any opportunity.

Mastering Your Letter of Intent

Emails

I’ve written hundreds of reference letters over the last decade for interns, colleagues, senior executives, and even fellow consultants. No matter where I’ve worked—in Canada, Germany, Singapore, or the U.S.—one truth holds: a well-written reference letter can open doors.If you're asked to write one, it usually means someone trusts you to represent their abilities and character. And that’s no small responsibility. So let’s walk through what makes a reference letter not only professional but genuinely impactful.<h2>What Is a Reference Letter?</h2>A reference letter, sometimes called a letter of reference, is a written endorsement of a person's skills, character, and work ethic. These letters are often requested for job applications, graduate programs, fellowships, or even housing leases.Unlike a short-form reference or quick phone call, this is something formal. It should give the reader confidence in the candidate and back that up with specific, relevant examples.<h2>Types of Reference Letters: Know Which One You're Writing</h2>Before you start, clarify the type of reference letter you're being asked to write. Each has a slightly different focus.<ul><li>Professional Reference Letter: Written by a manager, colleague, or business partner who knows the candidate’s work in a professional context.</li><li>Academic Reference Letter: Typically from a professor, research supervisor, or academic advisor. Focuses on the student’s performance, dedication, and potential.</li><li>Character or Personal Reference Letter: Written by someone who can speak to the candidate’s personal attributes, often for housing, visa applications, or community roles.</li></ul>👉&nbsp;Tip from experience: Always ask what the letter is for. I once wrote a glowing academic-style reference for someone applying for a startup incubator, and it didn’t land well—it was too formal and missed what the reviewers cared about.<h2>How to Write a Reference Letter (That Actually Helps Someone)</h2>Let’s break it down step by step. This isn’t just about being polite or following a format; it’s about making a case.<ol style="list-style-type:decimal;"><li>Start with a Clear Statement of Support&nbsp; Begin with a line that leaves no doubt. “I’m pleased to recommend…” or “It’s my pleasure to write this reference for…” signals to the reader that you stand behind this person.</li><li>Explain How You Know the Candidate&nbsp; Mention your relationship: Did you supervise them? Work alongside them? Advise them? For how long? The more context, the more credible your letter.&nbsp; Example: “I had the pleasure of managing Maria Lopez for two years at GlobalTech, where she served as a client solutions specialist.”</li><li>Share Specific Qualities and Achievements&nbsp; Don’t just say “hardworking” or “team player.” Give concrete examples. Did they lead a project? Solve a challenging issue? Go beyond expectations?&nbsp; I always ask myself, “If someone else wrote this, could they swap in a different name?” If the answer is yes, I haven’t been specific enough. Example: “During the 2022 Q3 rollout, Maria identified a system flaw that had been overlooked for months, saving the team over 60 hours of manual rework.”</li><li>Tie Their Strengths to the New Opportunity&nbsp; Connect the dots. If someone’s applying for a teaching role, highlight their mentorship skills. If it’s a leadership program, speak to initiative and strategic thinking. You want the reader to think, “Yes, they’d be a great fit here.”</li></ol><h2>Format of a Reference Letter: Keep It Simple and Clean</h2>Here’s the general format I follow. Whether you're writing for a university application or a job in a multinational, this structure works globally.<ol><li>Your name and contact info (top or bottom)</li><li>Date</li><li>Salutation (e.g., Dear Admissions Committee, or To Whom It May Concern)</li><li>Introduction – who you are, how you know the candidate, why you’re writing</li><li>Body paragraph(s) – examples of skills, accomplishments, qualities</li><li>Closing – clear endorsement and contact offer</li><li>Signature (typed or handwritten, depending on how you’re submitting)</li></ol>💡&nbsp;Helpful Tool: I often use the&nbsp;<a href="https://justdone.com/ai-business/ai-letter-generator">AI Letter Generator</a> from JustDone to quickly draft clean, well-formatted outlines. It’s especially handy when I’m in a rush or tailoring multiple references in one week. It’s saved me hours, especially when adapting for different tones (corporate vs. nonprofit, academic vs. startup).<h2>Tips for Writing a Reference Letter That Stands Out</h2>Here are a few things I’ve learned from writing and reading hundreds of these:<ul><li>Be honest. Don’t exaggerate. If you wouldn’t rehire someone, don’t say you would.</li><li>Don’t write too long. Keep it to one page, max 500–600 words. Anything longer feels like filler.</li><li>Proofread carefully. Typos or poor grammar undercut your credibility as much as the candidate’s.</li><li>Match the tone to the audience. Academic committees want rigor and focus. Startups may appreciate a lighter, more informal tone.</li><li>Personalize it. The best reference letters sound like you. Don’t be afraid to let your voice come through.</li></ul><h2>What Is an Example of a Good Reference?</h2>Let me share a trimmed-down example. This is from a real letter I wrote (names and details changed for privacy):<pre><code class="language-plaintext">To Whom It May Concern,
I’m pleased to write this reference on behalf of Jordan Blake, who reported to me at LinkLabs for over two years. Jordan consistently demonstrated sharp analytical thinking, outstanding communication, and true ownership of their projects...
One project in particular stands out: Jordan led the redesign of our onboarding process, reducing churn by 12% in six months...
I strongly endorse Jordan for any role that demands strategic thinking, collaboration, and commitment to results. Feel free to contact me with any questions.</code></pre>Simple. Specific. Sincere.One more advice: When I’m short on time or juggling different regional styles, I rely on JustDone's Grammar Checker and paraphraser. They help make my letters sound like me, but even sharper.<h2>Final Thought: A Letter That Reflects Both of You</h2>If you’re taking the time to write a reference, make it count. Be thoughtful, be truthful, and don’t hesitate to ask the candidate what they’re applying for, what qualities matter most, or if they have a CV you can glance at. A great reference letter doesn’t just reflect well on the person you're endorsing. It reflects well on you, too.

Sofia Chambers

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