Sales Cover Letter Examples

How to Write a Sales Cover Letter

Improve your job search by submitting a strong sales cover letter that really sets you apart. Even if a cover letter isn’t required, it’s a powerful way to enhance your application. This extra effort allows you to highlight your skills and achievements and present them in a way that will resonate with potential employers. A well-crafted cover letter can make the difference between being lost in the pile of applications and standing out as the first choice for an interview.

Your sales cover letter step-by-step:

Step 1: Understand the Sales Job Requirements

First, carefully review the job description to ensure that the role matches your experience and career goals. Focus on the specific sales skills and qualifications required and identify the core competencies the employer values. Follow any specific application instructions, such as submitting sales performance data or addressing specific questions in your cover letter.

Research the company’s sales strategies, culture and recent successes to effectively tailor your cover letter. This knowledge will allow you to match your experience to their needs and demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for the role.

Step 2: Include Contact Information

Open your cover letter by listing your contact information, including your name, address, phone number and email, so the employer can easily reach you. Add the current date to indicate when you are submitting your application.

Next, include the company’s contact details, such as the hiring manager’s name, the company’s name and address. If the hiring manager’s name is mentioned in the job advertisement, use it. If not, consider making a quick call to the company to find out. This effort shows initiative and a genuine interest in the role.

Step 3: Address the Reader

Personalise your cover letter by addressing it directly to the hiring manager if you know their name (e.g. “Dear Mr Glen”). This shows your attention to detail and commitment to learning about the company.

If you don’t have the hiring manager’s name, use “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear Hiring Team”. Avoid generic and outdated greetings such as “To Whom It May Concern” as these can feel impersonal. Choosing the right salutation sets a positive tone for your letter.

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Step 4: Write an Engaging Opening Paragraph

Start your cover letter by clearly stating which sales role you’re applying for and why you’re the ideal candidate. Keep this introduction short, around 3-4 sentences, to capture the reader’s attention.

Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and link it to the company’s values or success in the sales industry. For example, you could mention your admiration for their market-leading products or exceptional sales culture. This connection creates a strong first impression and demonstrates your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.

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Step 5: Write the Core of Your Cover Letter

In the body of your cover letter, highlight your most relevant sales experience and skills. Focus on key achievements, such as consistently exceeding sales targets or significantly growing client accounts, to demonstrate your qualifications.

Provide specific examples that relate directly to the job requirements. For example, if customer relationship management is key, tell a story of how you successfully handled a challenging customer, resulting in increased sales or customer loyalty. Highlight how your experience will directly contribute to the company’s sales success by demonstrating your problem solving, teamwork and leadership skills.

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Step 6: Craft a Strong Closing Paragraph

Your closing paragraph should mirror the length of your opening paragraph and reiterate your enthusiasm for the position and the company. Mention that your attached CV provides more detailed information about your experience and qualifications.

Thank the reader for their time and consideration and express your appreciation for the opportunity to apply. Let them know that you’re eager to discuss how you can contribute to their team and that you’d welcome the opportunity to interview at their convenience.

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Step 7: Finalise Your Letter

Finish your letter with a professional sign-off to leave a strong final impression. If you’ve addressed the letter to a specific person, “Yours sincerely” is the appropriate closing. For more general salutations like “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear Hiring Team,” “Yours faithfully” is recommended. For a slightly more casual but still professional tone, “Kind regards” works well. Ensure your full name is included beneath the closing, helping your letter end on a polished and respectful note.

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Step 8: Polish and Perfect Your Sales Cover Letter

Make sure your sales letter is polished and professional. Proofread carefully for spelling and grammatical errors and make sure your content is clear and powerful, with each sentence reinforcing your message.

Format your cover letter correctly. Start with your contact details at the top, followed by the date and the company’s contact details. Use a standard font such as Arial or Times New Roman in 11 or 12 point, and keep the same spacing throughout. This attention to detail will make a strong, positive impression on potential employers.