Tips and Examples for a Winning Sales Cover Letter

The ongoing pandemic should not deter you from pursuing a career in sales. In fact, our COVID-19 Job Report has identified sales positions as the second most in-demand role in the next six months.

Thinking of how to stand out? Whether you are new to the field or a seasoned sales professional, the way to get your future employers’ attention is through an effective cover letter. Think of it as a perfect accompaniment to your resume--a cover letter is a one-pager that details all of your achievements. It is the first impression a prospective employer will have of you, so make it a great one.

Ready to kickstart that sales career? We have prepared two cover letter samples for both the novice and experienced sales professionals. Find where you fall in and begin.

A sample cover letter for the novice

If you are a newbie to the sales world, remember the three Ps of making it in sales: persistence, people-centredness, and passion. Make a killer first impression by having the following in your cover letter

• Educational experience. Include any honourable mentions or significant academic achievements.
• Extracurricular activities. Show that you can balance multiple responsibilities and highlight working with people and meeting targets.

Internships and part-time jobs. Real-world experiences, especially those that involve sales functions, should be included.

A sample cover letter for the expert

If you have been in sales for a while and are looking for either a lateral career move or a more senior role, here is what you have to keep in mind when writing your cover letter:

• Key accomplishments. Use figures and percentages to quantify your achievements in meeting or exceeding sales targets and growing the customer base.

• Career milestones. Highlight significant promotions and increased duties and responsibilities.

• Transferable skills. If you are applying for a sales position in a different industry, emphasise your transferable skills that demonstrate your ability to excel in a different business environment.

While an effective cover letter may not always seal the deal every time, it does give you an edge over your fellow candidates. And in this competitive job market, every advantage helps. As you write a cover letter that instills confidence in prospective employers, it's important to also believe in yourself. Know that you have what it takes to take your career to the next level.

Get started on your career journey by updating your Jobstreet profile. Discover #JobsThatMatter to you on Jobstreet. Let us be your partner in finding a career that brings you passion, purpose, and success. For more practical advice, expert insights, and industry news, visit our Career Resources Hub.

At Jobstreet, we believe in bringing you #JobsThatMatter. As a Career Partner, we are committed to helping all jobseekers find passion and purpose in every career choice. And as the number 1 Talent Partner in Asia, we connect employers with the right candidates who truly make a positive and lasting impact on the organisation. 

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