How to write a handwritten cover letter
The digital age has made applying for jobs easier than ever. However, it can also make it tough to stand out from other applicants. In a time when most job applications are submitted online, a handwritten cover letter can be a refreshing change for hiring managers, and it can demonstrate your commitment to landing an interview. Here’s everything you need to know about creating a handwritten cover letter.
What is a handwritten cover letter?
A handwritten cover letter is exactly what it sounds like — a cover letter you write by hand instead of typing. Most job applications are submitted via email or online portals. While this process is efficient, it can also be impersonal.
Depending on who you ask, a handwritten cover letter is dated and unprofessional or a unique way of making you stand out from other candidates. So which statement about using a handwritten cover letter is true?
The truth lies somewhere in the middle. A handwritten cover letter allows you to demonstrate your flair and attention to detail. This approach can be useful when applying for creative roles in design, calligraphy, or other hands-on trades. A handwritten cover letter can also be a great choice if you apply to a smaller or family-owned business that manually reviews every application.
Imagine you are a hiring manager and are sorting through several dozen applications. While skimming through the typed documents, you come across a letter written in clean, elegant handwriting. It instantly feels more personal and will probably make you eager to learn more about that applicant.
Benefits and drawbacks of a handwritten letter
A handwritten cover letter offers some distinct advantages over typed documents. Some key benefits include the following:
- Personalization: A handwritten letter feels more personal and tells employees you took the time to craft something specifically for them
- Unique Connection: Handwritten letters can create a stronger connection and show your willingness to go the extra mile
- Showcasing of Creative Skills: For roles in design or art, handwritten letters can double as a portfolio piece
However, there are some drawbacks to handwritten cover letters, including the following:
- Not Widely Used: Handwritten cover letters are not common and might seem out of place, especially in roles in finance, tech, or digital-focused industries
- Legibility Concerns: Poor handwriting or smudges can frustrate the reader
- Time and Delivery Challenges: Creating a legible document takes more time and effort
Another downside is that you won’t be able to use any fillable cover letter templates. You can still use the templates as a reference guide, but you’ll have to write every word of your letter from scratch. This can be a major headache if you are applying for multiple jobs simultaneously.
"A handwritten letter feels more personal and tells employees you took the time to craft something specifically for them."
Content of a handwritten letter
Include all of the same components in your handwritten letter as you would in a traditional typed letter. The letter should introduce who you are, outline your skills and experience, and share why you are applying for the job. Here’s a look at how to structure your document and make it impactful.
The proper structure
Your cover letter needs four main sections:
- Opening: Include your name, the date, and your contact information at the top
- Salutation: Address the hiring manager by name whenever possible; if you can’t, a respectful “Dear hiring manager” works
- Body Paragraphs: Keep the content concise. Focus on what you bring to the table and link your experience to the role
- Closing: End with a strong call to action while expressing enthusiasm for an interview
If you already have a great typed cover letter, you can largely mirror that document when creating a handwritten letter. Just make sure you customize your letter for each role you are applying for.
Writing tips for impact
Here’s how to make the most of your handwritten cover letter:
- Take the time to make your handwriting legible
- Double-check for spelling, grammar, and formatting errors
- Write in a polished yet approachable tone
Be very careful when writing your letter, as you will have to start over if you smudge your ink or make a major grammatical error.
Expert Tip:
Handwritten cover letters can be a great way of differentiating yourself from the competition. However, they won’t make it past applicant tracking systems (ATS), as the program may not be able to scan your document. It may be best to create an engaging typed letter while differentiating yourself with high-quality copy and quantifiable data about your achievements.
Tips for writing a handwritten letter
Here are some tips to help you handwrite a creative cover letter that gets you noticed by hiring managers:
- Focus on Legibility: Even the most eloquent letter will fall flat if it’s difficult to read
- Be Authentic: Write with sincerity and passion to give hiring managers a glimpse into who you are
- Show Enthusiasm for the Role: Let your excitement for the position shine throughout the cover letter
Make sure to look over some cover letter examples for inspiration. Even if the examples you are looking at are typed, you can still use them as references to help you structure your handwritten document.
Most importantly, consider modern alternatives to a handwritten cover letter. Creating an impactful typed letter is easier than ever, thanks to user-friendly tools like Jobseeker. Our intuitive dashboard streamlines the writing process while helping you craft a polished, ATS-friendly letter in minutes.
Track down some handwritten cover letter examples to review to get a feel for the length and spacing of a handwritten letter.
Presentation and delivery
Taking the time to create an impactful handwritten letter is only half the battle. How you present and deliver your letter is just as important as what it says.
Stationery tips
A cover letter can be handwritten on notepaper as opposed to thick stationery. However, it’s vital to use a simple but high-quality paper. Don’t rip a perforated page of lined paper out of your notebook.
Make sure you use a reliable pen with smooth, clean ink, such as a black or blue rollerball pen. Avoid using pencil or colored ink (other than blue), as these will appear unprofessional.
Formatting basics
Even though you are handwriting the document, it still needs to follow traditional formatting rules. Leave appropriate margins on all sides and align your text neatly to create a clean appearance. Look at some cover letter and resume examples to ensure the formatting on your documents is flawless.
Legibility
You know your handwriting style and whether it’s legible or not. If you have a naturally messy style, consider using block letters to make the letter legible. Take breaks while writing to avoid fatigue, which can affect the quality of your handwriting.
The handoff
If you are submitting your letter in person, use a professional envelope with your name and return address. Hand it directly to the hiring manager or leave it with the front desk. If you are sending your letter by mail, use a large, high-quality envelope so you don’t have to fold or crease your documents.
Mistakes to avoid
Make sure to avoid the following errors:
Unreadable handwriting or spelling errors
Sloppy or rushed writing can leave a terrible first impression. Take your time to ensure your handwriting is neat and legible and your spelling is correct.
Overly casual language or tone
A handwritten letter might feel personal, but it should still be professional. Avoid slang, abbreviations, or casual language.
Failing to follow a traditional cover letter structure
You won’t be able to jumpstart your writing process with a fillable template. However, you should still use cover letter and resume templates to guide your writing process and ensure you nail the structure.
Using paper or ink that looks unprofessional
Smudges or ink spills can undermine all of the effort you put into your letter. Always proofread your document and handle the pages carefully to avoid smudging the ink.
Should you submit a handwritten cover letter?
Can a cover letter be handwritten? Yes, but it’s important to consider the type of position you are applying for and the organization's reputation.
If you are applying for a business that values creativity and a personal touch, a handwritten cover letter can be a great choice. On the other hand, if you are applying for a role at a rigid, rule-centric organization, you may need to submit a typed letter instead.
Regardless of which path you choose, include a complementary resume that helps the hiring team better understand what you bring to the table. Together, a great resume and impactful cover letter can help you land an interview for your dream job.
