Mastering the Art of Signing a Cover Letter: Expert Signature Demonstrations Included

Enhancing Your Cover Letter Signature

When crafting a cover letter to accompany your resume, it's crucial to pay attention to the finer details, as you only have one opportunity to make a lasting first impression. So, what should you include in your signature when applying for a job through your cover letter? This will vary depending on how you are submitting your application. The format and content of your signature will differ based on whether you are mailing, uploading, or emailing your cover letter.

Is a Handwritten Signature Necessary?

When submitting your cover letter electronically via email or upload, it is not mandatory to physically sign your cover letter. Employers do not anticipate seeing a handwritten signature on your cover letter. You may choose to include a scanned image of your signature, but this is optional.

How to Sign an Uploaded or Printed Cover Letter

<strong>Uploaded Letter:</strong> If uploading your cover letter to a job portal, your signature should consist of an appropriate closing phrase followed by your full name. Utilize a formal business letter format with a heading, salutation, letter body, closing phrase, and signature.

<strong>Hard Copy Letter:</strong> For a printed copy, include a closing phrase, your handwritten signature, and typed full name. Leave ample space between the closing phrase and your typed name to accommodate your signature when the letter is printed. Sign using blue or black ink.

Examples of Signatures for Uploaded or Printed Letters

<strong>Signature Example (uploaded letter):</strong><br>Best regards,<br>Janet Dolan

<strong>Signature Format (signed letter):</strong><br>Closing phrase,<br>Handwritten Signature<br>First Name Last Name<br>Best regards,<br>Janet Dolan (Your Signature)<br>Janet Dolan

What to Include in an Email Signature

For email submissions, conclude with a courteous sign-off followed by your full name. Write your full name in the same font as the rest of the letter without using italics or a handwriting font. Include contact information in your email signature for easy access to your details by the recipient.

Setting Up Email Signatures

When sending email cover letters, ensure to provide contact information such as your name, email address, and phone number. Optional information like street address, online portfolio, or social media profiles can be included. Use a professional email address for job applications, avoiding your work email.

Adding a Digital Signature

While adding a handwriting signature is optional, it can be done digitally. Scan your handwritten signature and save it as an image file. Insert the image into your cover letter document following the closing phrase. Type your name below the handwritten signature to complete the process.

For further assistance with your cover letter, refer to resources on cover letter writing, format, targeted letters, and samples to ensure a polished application submission.