Is a Cover Letter Necessary in 2024? Do I Need a Cover Letter?
Asking yourself "Do I need a cover letter?" We surveyed 200 hiring decision-makers to find out if cover letters are still important in 2024.
Michael Tomaszewski, CPRW
Career Expert
You’re skilled in Photoshop, interactive media, media branding, and mobile app design. Show them how great you are with the perfect graphic designer cover letter.
Is the thought of writing a graphic design cover letter sending shivers down your spine? Fear not.
This article will rescue you from generic pitfalls, transforming your cover letter into a masterpiece. Let’s make your graphic designer cover letter a true work of art in the hiring landscape!
In this article, you’ll get:
Save hours of work and get a cover letter like this. Pick a template, fill it in. Quick and easy. Choose from 20+ cover letter templates and download your cover letter now.
What users say about ResumeLab:
I had an interview yesterday and the first thing they said on the phone was: “Wow! I love your cover letter.”
Patrick
I love the variety of templates. Good job guys, keep up the good work!
Dylan
My previous cover letter was really weak and I used to spend hours adjusting it in Word. Now, I can introduce any changes within minutes. Absolutely wonderful!
George
Looking for a different cover letter? See:
First, I’ll show you two graphic designer cover letter samples.
The first sample comes from Angela. She’s been doing graphic design professionally for over 6 years. She’s targeting a senior position at a company looking for a candidate specializing in making complex infographics and data visualizations.
Angela Bytes
Senior Graphic Designer
555-123-4567
angela.bytes@email.com
linkedin.com/in/angelabytes
April 5, 2024
Jane Thompson
Hiring Manager
Marvelous Design
123 Creative Lane
Superhero City, FL 12345
Dear Jane,
I am writing to express my enthusiasm for the Senior Graphic Designer position at Marvelous Design, as advertised on your company's website. With a robust background in graphic design, including 6+ years of experience and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design from The University of Tampa, I am confident I will bring creative and impactful designs to your esteemed team.
Your job listing specifically caught my eye as it emphasizes the need for a professional specializing in creating complex infographics and data visualizations. In my previous role as Lead Graphic Designer at ByteCraft Studios, I led a team in producing a series of data visualizations for a client in the finance sector, resulting in a 25% increase in user engagement and a notable boost in client satisfaction.
Additionally, my tenure at Pixel Dynamics saw me spearheading the development of a comprehensive set of infographics for a tech conference. Implementing these visuals led to a 30% increase in booth traffic and a subsequent rise in qualified leads. My proficiency in translating complex information into visually appealing and digestible content aligns seamlessly with Marvelous Design's requirements.
Marvelous Design has consistently been a source of inspiration for me in the graphic design field. Your commitment to innovation and visual storytelling has set a high standard in the industry. I look forward to the possibility of joining Marvelous Design and contributing to your creative endeavors.
I would welcome the opportunity to discuss further how my skills and experiences align with the goals of Marvelous Design. Could we schedule a meeting to explore how I can contribute to your upcoming design projects and challenges?
Sincerely,
Angela Bytes
555-123-4567
angela.bytes@email.com
Angela’s graphic design cover letter will grab attention. She precisely tackled the company requirements of data visualization and creating infographics.
But we can’t all be like Angela. So, what should you do if you’re making an entry-level cover letter for a graphic design job?
See how Andrew, a fresh graduate, tackles this problem.
Andrew Tauroneo
Graphic Design Graduate
555-987-6543
andrew.tauroneo@email.com
linkedin.com/in/andrewtauroneo
April 5, 2024
Jane Thompson
Hiring Manager
Marvelous Design
123 Creative Lane
Superhero City, FL 12345
Dear Jane,
I am writing to express my keen interest in the Junior Graphic Designer position at Marvelous Design, as recently advertised on your company's website. As a recent graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my creativity, technical skills, and fresh perspective to your dynamic team.
In the job description on your website, I noticed the emphasis on candidates capable of quick learning, assisting senior designers, and participating in creative brainstorming sessions. During my academic journey, I achieved top scores, securing a 100% in Multiplatform Design, Desktop Publishing, and Digital Imaging. My commitment to continuous learning is also reflected in my active membership with the American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA).
Beyond academia, I've ventured into the world of freelance graphic design on Creative Market, where I've successfully completed projects for 26 clients, earning a perfect 5/5 rating. Notably, I demonstrated versatility by creating designs that catered to diverse client needs, showcasing my ability to adapt to various design requirements.
Marvelous Design's reputation for innovation and creativity resonates with me, and I am eager to contribute to your vision. I believe my academic achievements and practical experience gained through freelance work, position me as an ideal candidate for the junior graphic designer role at Marvelous Design.
I would be honored to discuss in more detail how my skills align with the goals of Marvelous Design. Could we arrange a meeting to explore how I can contribute to your creative projects and bring a fresh perspective to your design team?
Sincerely,
Andrew Tauroneo
555-987-6543
andrew.tauroneo@email.com
So you’ve seen two expertly fashioned cover letter examples graphic design employers will gush over. Now it’s time for you to write a graphic designer cover letter. Stressed? Don’t worry, I’ll walk you through it.
Graphic designers utilize visual elements to communicate messages and ideas. They develop layouts and design solutions for print and digital media, such as advertisements, websites, and logos. Attention to detail, creativity, and the ability to meet deadlines are crucial aspects of their role.
This is how to write a cover letter that shows it all:
As a graphic designer, you absolutely can’t mess up your cover letter format. If you do, that basically nullifies all of its contents, as the recruiter won’t even bother skimming through it.
So, make your graphic design cover letter appealing as if you applied the golden ratio. Follow these formatting rules:
The graphic design cover letter header is of utmost importance. Since you’re writing a formal letter, you must address the cover letter like any business document.
Have your contact information on top, then the current date, and move on to the recipient's information + company address.
Here’s an easy template to follow:
[Your Name]
[Your Job Title]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
[LinkedIn Profile] (Optional)
[Date of Writing]
[HR Manager’s Full Name]
[HR Manager’s Title]
[Company’s Name]
[Company’s Street Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
You might be tempted to add a ton of color, iconography, and other touches to highlight your cover letter header. But let me stop you right there. Minimalism is the most important design style when making a job application.
If you’re confident in your abilities to add some flair to your cover letter, do the same for your resume. Remember, Your cover letter’s and resume’s looks must match.
Expert Hint: Creating an infographic resume and a more creative cover letter is generally accepted for non-corporate jobs with a relaxed company culture. Just make sure they don’t use ATS, since these styles of resumes are not ATS-friendly.
Double your impact with a matching resume and cover letter combo. Use our cover letter generator and make your application documents pop out.
Want to try a different look? There's 21 more. A single click will give your document a total makeover. Pick a cover letter template here.
The start of your cover letter needs to leave the recruiter in awe. It also needs to show you’re targeting this job specifically instead of sending a generic copy-pasted cover letter to hundreds of other companies.
How should you approach this? First, use the recruiter’s name in the salutation. You can usually find it on the company’s About page or their LinkedIn profile. Next, you must introduce yourself as an able candidate for the job. Show them what skills you have, and share a single work achievement to give them a taste of your abilities.
Here’s a practical template for a graphic designer cover letter:
Dear [HR Representative’s Name]
I was excited when I came across the advertisement for the [Graphic Design Position] at [Company or Agency Name]. As a [Current or Last Graphic Design Job] with [##] years of experience, I’ve become highly skilled in [e.g., Website Elements, Video Editing, Photoshop, Illustrator, Brand Identity Design, Creative Marketing, etc.] proven by [Quantified Achievement]. I know I would be a great addition to your creative team and your upcoming design projects.
Expert Hint: As a graphic designer, you’ll be expected to provide a portfolio alongside your resume and graphic design cover letters. Make sure it’s full of your best and most relevant projects.
In this part of your cover letter for graphic design roles, you'll strategically match your skills and experiences with the job requirements outlined in the description. Start by thoroughly examining the graphic design job posting to pinpoint key responsibilities. Then, highlight how your expertise aligns with these needs. Offer concrete examples of past achievements that reflect what the company is seeking.
Research the company you are applying for. In case you are directly applying for a vacancy at company XYZ ltd, you should research the company as well as the position and make appropriate amendments to your cover letter to better match. Remember, recruiters are busy and cover letters as well as CVs that appear unrelated to the recruiting position will be, most probable, push to the side.
Here’s a template to help you visualize:
Your job listing emphasizes the need for a [Specific Role] with expertise in [Job Requirements]. In my position as a [Current or Last Job Title] at [Current or Last Company], I honed my proficiency in [Graphic Design Responsibilities] with measurable success, achieving [Metrics or Achievements]. I also [Another Quantified Achievement] I am confident that my skills and results will seamlessly translate into impactful contributions at [Agency or Company Name].
One more thing. You’ll definitely want to highlight some of your hard skills, such as software proficiencies and IT skills. But you shouldn’t neglect your soft skills. A Finnish study shows that most hiring managers want employees with interpersonal skills and good communication skills.
Expert Hint: Unsure about the differences between hard and soft skills? Click the embedded link to jump to an article explaining everything you need to know about them.
In the third paragraph of your cover letter, show them why you want to work for them.
You’ve already presented your skills and achievements, they know your qualifications fit the position perfectly. But they don’t know if you are the best fit. Show some enthusiasm and refer to the company values. Let the creative director feel the positive energy emanating from your graphic designer cover letter.
Let your creative juices flow, or use this template to help yourself out:
It is really inspiring to me that, at [Agency Name], you [Give Something You Truly Admire About This Agency]. On top of that, your [e.g., Mission Statement, Volunteer Efforts, Contributions, etc.] are amazing and perfectly in line with my own values. I would be honored to join your team.
Expert Hint: Showing your motivation in a cover letter is essential, but if you have way more to say than can be contained in just one paragraph, consider writing a letter of motivation.
You’re almost done. To end your cover letter for graphic design the best way, you should do something not many people think of doing. Ask them for a call or meeting. Remind them of how you’re certain that your skills will benefit their company.
Lastly, say “Sincerely,” and sign your name underneath. It doesn’t need to be a handwritten signature, though. You can just type your name normally. To make it easier for them to contact you, you can also paste your contact information from the header.
Here’s a simple template:
Can we make the time for a call or meeting to examine in more detail how my graphic design skills could help [Agency Name] reach your upcoming creative targets?
Sincerely,
[Full Name]
[Phone Number] (optional)
[Email Address] (optional)
Expert Hint: Have you written your resume yet? If not, or if you want to check it, here’s our expert guide on writing a graphic designer resume.
With ResumeLab’s resume builder you’ll write your resume in a flash. Get specific content to boost your chances of getting the job. Add job descriptions, bullet points, and skills. Improve your resume in our resume builder now.
Nail it all with a splash of color, choose a clean font, highlight your skills in just a few clicks. You’re the perfect candidate and we’ll prove it. Just pick one of 21 resume templates and get started now.
Let’s bring it all together. Here’s how to make your graphic designer cover letter stand out:
Do you have any questions about writing a cover letter for graphic designers with no experience? Need assistance talking up your achievements on a graphic design cover letter? Just leave a comment, and I’ll happily reply.
At ResumeLab, quality is at the crux of our values, supporting our commitment to delivering top-notch career resources. The editorial team of career experts carefully reviews every article in accordance with editorial guidelines, ensuring the high quality and reliability of our content. We actively conduct original research, shedding light on the job market's intricacies and earning recognition from numerous influential news outlets. Our dedication to delivering expert career advice attracts millions of readers to our blog each year.
Asking yourself "Do I need a cover letter?" We surveyed 200 hiring decision-makers to find out if cover letters are still important in 2024.
Michael Tomaszewski, CPRW
Career Expert
Do you have trouble writing your cover letter? Need help figuring out how to start? No more! Plan your cover letter the right way with our cover letter outline guide.
Mariusz Wawrzyniak
Career Expert
“Next,” said the recruiter putting another application into the trash. Then he grabs yours, you pass instantly. That's the power of the perfect headline for a resume!
Mariusz Wawrzyniak
Career Expert