Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Examples

Updated January 21, 2021

This illustration offers tip on writing an administrative assistant cover letter including "Include your referral's name, if any," "Address to the name of the specific hiring manager," and "Target your latter to the posting: Before writing, make a list of the qualifications, preferences, and requirements listed in the ad." — Bailey Mariner © The Balance

When you're applying for an administrative assistant position, including a cover letter with your application materials gives you an opportunity to highlight and enhance the information on your resume.

It can also help you make a strong case for your candidacy for the job. Writing a cover letter to submit with your resume is also an excellent way to provide connections between your skills and the job requirements.

What to Include in Your Cover Letter

Try to Find a Contact Person

If you can find the name of the hiring manager responsible for filling the position, it's an excellent idea to use it. "Dear Mr. Jones" or "Dear Riley Smith" is a much more personal greeting than "Dear Hiring Manager." A personalized greeting shows that you made the extra effort to find out to whom you are writing. That kind of initiative is appreciated by potential employers.

Mention a Referral

If someone has referred you, be sure to mention that in your opening paragraph as well.

Match Your Cover Letter to the Job

Your cover letter should be targeted to the job you are applying for. Before you start writing, it's a good idea to make a list of the qualifications, requirements, and preferences that are stated in the job posting.

Include Examples

Then you can use examples from your work experiences to highlight the skills that match what the employer is looking for in an ideal candidate.

The more closely you can match your experience to what the employer seeks in a candidate, the better your chances for getting an interview, and eventually, the job.

Carefully Proofread and Spellcheck

Before you submit your job application materials, carefully proofread your resume and cover letter. It's especially important when you're applying for an administrative position where your written communication skills will be evaluated during the hiring process.

Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Examples

Review sample cover letters and download the template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) to use as a starting point for your own letter, and see more examples below.

email cover letter sample — ©TheBalance 2018

Download the Word Template

Basic Administrative Assistant Cover Letter

Justin Applicant
123 Main Street
Anytown, CA 12345
555-555-1234
justin.applicant@email.com

January 21, 2021

Dear Hiring Manager:

I was excited to read about the Administrative Assistant job opening at XYZ company. I have several years of experience in a variety of fields, including insurance and finance.

In addition to my extensive office experience, I have strong communication, customer service, and administrative skills. My broad background makes me an excellent candidate for this position.

Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you to arrange an interview.

Sincerely,

Signature (hard copy letter)

Justin Applicant

Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Example

Jennifer Grogan
123 Sundial Road
Grafton, FL 33109
555-123-1234
jgrogan@youremail.com

January 21, 2021

Hiring Committee

ABC Company
10 Broadway

Grafton, FL 33109

Dear Hiring Committee,

I am responding to your posting on Indeed for an administrative assistant. I believe my experiences in the nonprofit world, as well as my passion for the goals of labor unions, make me an ideal candidate for the position.

Here is a summary of my skills:

Communications
Non-profit experience
Computer proficiency
Organizing office procedures
Training and supervisory experience
Public relations
Database maintenance

You specify that the ideal candidate will be able to take on multiple roles within the union. Since 2018, I've volunteered in a variety of capacities for XYZ Nonprofit. I began as a writer/editor for their newsletter, assisted in producing various special events, and have been active in volunteer recruitment and website management. I believe all of these experiences and skills would translate well into your administrative assistant position.

Last summer I completed a seminar at A Circle of Ten, Inc. It was an intensive workshop that explores the process of collaboration, community development, and fundraising. I now understand, more than ever, how essential unions are in ensuring a voice for employees. I am excited at the prospect of being part of the tradition that protects employee rights.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you to arrange a time to speak further about how I can contribute to your organization.

Sincerely,

Signature (hard copy letter)

Jennifer Grogan

Email Cover Letter With a Referral Example

Subject: Administrative Assistant - Jane Doe

Dear Mr. Smith,

I am writing in reference to the open position of administrative assistant in the marketing department at XYZ Enterprises. Susan Jones was a colleague of mine for many years, and she recommended I contact you directly about the position. She believed that my varied experiences and education give me the skills necessary to be a successful candidate for your organization.

I have experience in many aspects of office administration. I have been responsible for accounting, ordering stock and office supplies, maintaining records, creating and updating inventories, scheduling appointments and greeting customers at the door.

During my time as administrative assistant at ABC Industries, I utilized many of these skills, and also had the opportunity to work closely with the marketing department. One of my duties was maintaining communication between departments as we were undergoing a restructuring of our advertising campaign. I was excited to be a part of the 30% growth we experienced as a result of the new marketing strategy.

My experience with White Books provided me with the opportunity to hone my written ability, as I was responsible for proofreading and editing executive correspondence. It also helped me to develop excellent time management and prioritizing skills to complete work on a deadline.

I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss the administrative assistant opportunity you have available. I believe that I would be a good fit at XYZ Enterprises, and I thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Jane Doe
janedoe123@email.com
(555) 222-3344