Getting a job in advertising takes more than just a good resume. A strong cover letter can make a big difference when applying for a position in this field. Cover letters give you a chance to show off your writing skills and share why you're a good fit for the job.
In advertising, where communication is key, your cover letter is like a sample of your work. It shows how well you can grab attention and get your message across. A good cover letter for an advertising job should be clear, interesting, and show that you understand what the company does.
This article will help you write a great cover letter for an advertising job. We'll go over what to include, how to structure it, and give you tips to make your letter stand out. Plus, we'll show you an example of a good advertising cover letter to help you get started.
Remember, your cover letter is often the first thing a hiring manager sees. It's your chance to make a good first impression and get them excited about your application. With the right approach, your cover letter can open doors to interviews and new opportunities in the advertising world.
Advertising Cover Letter Example
Dear Leta Armstrong,
I am writing to express my keen interest in the Advertising position at Ogilvy. As a passionate and creative professional in the field of advertising, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your esteemed agency's innovative campaigns and continued success.
With a strong background in advertising and a finger on the pulse of current market trends, I bring a unique blend of creativity and strategic thinking to the table. My experience has honed my ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate with target audiences across various platforms, from traditional media to cutting-edge digital channels.
Ogilvy's reputation for groundbreaking campaigns and its commitment to pushing the boundaries of advertising aligns perfectly with my professional aspirations. I am particularly impressed by your recent work for [mention a recent notable campaign by Ogilvy], which showcases the agency's ability to create impactful and memorable advertising experiences.
Throughout my career, I have:
• Developed and executed multi-channel advertising campaigns that have significantly increased brand awareness and ROI for clients • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure cohesive messaging and brand consistency across all touchpoints • Stayed ahead of industry trends, including the integration of AI and data-driven strategies in advertising • Fostered strong client relationships, resulting in repeat business and referrals
I am confident that my creative vision, coupled with my analytical skills and ability to translate client needs into effective advertising solutions, would make me a valuable addition to the Ogilvy team. I am excited about the prospect of contributing to your agency's legacy of creating work that doesn't just sell, but also becomes a part of popular culture.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and passion for advertising can contribute to Ogilvy's continued success and innovation in the industry.
Sincerely,
Terrance Johnston
How to Write & Format a Cover Letter Header
The header of your advertising cover letter is the first thing a hiring manager sees, making it a crucial element in creating a strong first impression. A well-crafted header sets the tone for your application and provides essential contact information to potential employers.
Key Elements of a Cover Letter Header
Your cover letter header should include:
- Your full name
- Phone number
- Email address
- City and state (optional)
- LinkedIn profile or portfolio website (if relevant)
Formatting Tips
Ensure your header is clean and professional by:
- Using a clear, readable font
- Aligning text to the left or center
- Matching the font and style of your resume for consistency
- Leaving adequate white space between the header and letter body
Professional Email Address
Use a professional email address, ideally one that includes your name. Avoid using nicknames or humorous email addresses that may appear unprofessional.
Additional Considerations
If you're sending a physical letter, include the date and the recipient's contact information below your header. For digital submissions, this information can be omitted to save space.
Remember, your cover letter header should be concise yet informative, providing hiring managers with the essential information they need to contact you. A well-designed header demonstrates your attention to detail and professionalism, setting the stage for a compelling cover letter that showcases your qualifications for the advertising position.
Greeting Your Potential Employer
After crafting a professional header for your advertising cover letter, the next crucial element is the greeting. This seemingly small detail sets the tone for your entire letter and can significantly impact the reader's first impression.
Research the Recipient
Whenever possible, address your letter to a specific person. Take the time to research the company and identify the hiring manager or department head. This personal touch demonstrates initiative and attention to detail.
Use a Professional Salutation
If you know the recipient's name, use "Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Last Name]." When uncertain about gender, use the full name: "Dear [First Name] [Last Name]." Avoid outdated greetings like "Dear Sir/Madam" or "To Whom It May Concern."
When the Recipient is Unknown
If you can't find a specific name, opt for a role-based greeting such as "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear Advertising Team." These alternatives are more personalized than generic salutations.
Consider Company Culture
For more casual or creative agencies, you might use a less formal greeting like "Hello" or "Greetings." However, err on the side of formality if you're unsure about the company's culture.
Proofread
Double-check the spelling of names and titles. A mistake here can immediately undermine your attention to detail and professionalism.
By crafting a thoughtful and appropriate greeting, you set a positive tone for the rest of your cover letter, increasing your chances of making a strong first impression in the competitive advertising industry.
Introducing Yourself in a Cover Letter
The introduction of your advertising cover letter is your chance to make a strong first impression and grab the reader's attention. This opening paragraph should be concise, engaging, and tailored to the specific job and company you're applying to.
To craft an effective cover letter introduction:
Start with a hook
Begin with a compelling statement or anecdote that showcases your passion for advertising or highlights a relevant achievement. This will immediately capture the reader's interest.
Mention the position
Clearly state the specific job title you're applying for and where you found the job listing. This demonstrates your attention to detail and ensures your application is directed to the right role.
Briefly introduce yourself
Provide a quick overview of your professional background and qualifications that make you an ideal candidate for the position. Focus on your most relevant skills and experiences.
Show enthusiasm
Express your genuine interest in the company and the role. Research the organization beforehand and mention something specific about their work or culture that resonates with you.
Highlight your unique value proposition
In one sentence, summarize what sets you apart from other candidates and how you can contribute to the company's success. This gives the reader a compelling reason to continue reading your letter.
Remember to keep your introduction concise and focused, aiming for about 3-4 sentences. The goal is to entice the reader to delve deeper into your qualifications and experiences outlined in the rest of your cover letter.
Strong Example
Dear Hiring Manager,
As a passionate and innovative marketing professional with over five years of experience in crafting compelling advertising campaigns, I was thrilled to discover the Senior Copywriter position at XYZ Agency. Your firm's reputation for creating award-winning, thought-provoking ads that push creative boundaries aligns perfectly with my career aspirations and skill set. I am particularly impressed by your recent campaign for Eco-Friendly Products Inc., which masterfully blended humor and environmental consciousness to drive brand awareness and sales. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my unique blend of creativity, strategic thinking, and data-driven approach to contribute to XYZ Agency's continued success.
Why is this a strong example?
This is a strong cover letter introduction for several reasons. First, it immediately establishes the applicant's relevant experience and passion for the field. The opening sentence captures attention by highlighting the candidate's expertise and enthusiasm. Second, it demonstrates specific knowledge of the company by mentioning their reputation and a recent campaign, showing that the applicant has done their research. This personalization is crucial in making a strong first impression. Third, the introduction clearly states why the applicant is interested in the position and how their skills align with the company's needs. Finally, it concludes with a forward-looking statement that expresses enthusiasm and hints at the value the candidate could bring to the role. The language is professional yet engaging, striking a balance between confidence and genuine interest in the position.
Weak Example
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to apply for the Advertising position at your company. I saw your job posting online and thought it looked interesting. I have some experience in marketing and think I could be a good fit for this role. I am a hard worker and fast learner.
Why is this a weak example?
This is a weak cover letter introduction for several reasons. First, it uses the generic and impersonal 'To Whom It May Concern,' which shows a lack of effort in researching the company or hiring manager. Second, the language is vague and unengaging, failing to capture the reader's attention or demonstrate enthusiasm for the position. The applicant mentions seeing the job posting but doesn't specify where or show any knowledge about the company. The statement about experience is non-specific and doesn't highlight any particular skills or achievements. Finally, the closing sentences use clichés like 'hard worker' and 'fast learner' without providing any concrete examples or unique qualities that would set the applicant apart. Overall, this introduction fails to make a strong first impression or demonstrate why the applicant would be a valuable asset to the company.
Writing the Body of Your Cover Letter
The body of your advertising cover letter is where you can truly showcase your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role. This section should expand on your most relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that make you an ideal candidate for the position.
Highlight Your Relevant Skills
Focus on skills that directly relate to the job description. For advertising roles, these might include copywriting, market research, social media management, or campaign analysis. Provide specific examples of how you've applied these skills in previous roles or projects.
Demonstrate Your Industry Knowledge
Show your understanding of current advertising trends, technologies, and best practices. Mention any relevant certifications, workshops, or conferences you've attended to demonstrate your commitment to staying current in the field.
Showcase Your Achievements
Use quantifiable results to illustrate your impact in previous roles. For example, mention percentage increases in engagement rates, successful campaign metrics, or client acquisition numbers you've achieved.
Express Your Passion for Advertising
Convey your enthusiasm for the industry and the specific company you're applying to. Explain why you're drawn to advertising and how your passion translates into dedication and creativity in your work.
Address Company Needs
Research the company and tailor your letter to address their specific challenges or goals. Explain how your skills and experience can help them meet these objectives, demonstrating that you're not just looking for any job, but are specifically interested in contributing to their success.
By focusing on these key elements in the body of your cover letter, you'll create a compelling narrative that highlights your value as a candidate and sets you apart in the competitive advertising industry.
Strong Example
As a recent graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Marketing and a passion for creative advertising, I am excited to apply for the Junior Copywriter position at XYZ Agency. During my internship at ABC Marketing, I developed compelling ad copy for various social media campaigns, resulting in a 30% increase in client engagement. My experience with Adobe Creative Suite and proficiency in crafting persuasive content across multiple platforms make me an ideal candidate for your dynamic team.
I am particularly drawn to XYZ Agency's innovative approach to digital advertising and your recent award-winning campaign for [specific client]. Your commitment to pushing creative boundaries aligns perfectly with my own aspirations in the field. I am eager to contribute my fresh perspective and analytical skills to help create impactful campaigns that resonate with target audiences and drive results for your clients.
Why is this a strong example?
This is a strong example of a cover letter body for an Advertising position because it effectively demonstrates the candidate's qualifications, experience, and enthusiasm for the role. The content is tailored to the specific job and company, showing that the applicant has done their research. It highlights relevant skills and achievements, such as the 30% increase in client engagement, which provides concrete evidence of the candidate's capabilities. The letter also expresses genuine interest in the company by mentioning a specific campaign and the agency's approach to advertising. This level of detail and personalization makes the cover letter more compelling and memorable to the hiring manager, increasing the chances of securing an interview.
Weak Example
I am writing to apply for the Advertising position at your company. I have a degree in Marketing and I think I would be a good fit for this role. I have some experience in social media and I am a creative person. I am a hard worker and I am looking for a new challenge in my career. Please consider me for this position.
Why is this a weak example?
This is a weak example of a cover letter body for an Advertising position for several reasons. Firstly, it lacks specificity and fails to highlight concrete achievements or skills relevant to advertising. The language is generic and could apply to almost any job, showing no tailored approach to the company or role. The candidate mentions having 'some experience' in social media without providing details or examples of successful campaigns. The statement about being creative is not supported by any evidence. Additionally, the cover letter doesn't demonstrate knowledge of current advertising trends or the company's work. It fails to convey enthusiasm for the field or the specific role, and doesn't explain how the candidate's skills would benefit the company. Overall, it's too vague and doesn't effectively sell the candidate's qualifications for an advertising position.
How to Close Your Cover Letter
The closing of your advertising cover letter is your final opportunity to leave a lasting impression on the hiring manager. This section should wrap up your letter concisely while reiterating your enthusiasm for the position and prompting the reader to take action.
Summarize Your Value
Briefly reiterate why you're an excellent fit for the role, highlighting one or two key qualifications or achievements that align with the job requirements.
Express Enthusiasm
Convey your genuine interest in the position and the company. Show that you're excited about the opportunity to contribute to their advertising team.
Call to Action
Politely request an interview or further discussion about the role. Make it clear that you're looking forward to the opportunity to elaborate on your qualifications.
Thank the Reader
Express gratitude for the reader's time and consideration of your application. This demonstrates professionalism and courtesy.
Sign-Off
Choose an appropriate closing salutation, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your full name. If submitting a hard copy, leave space for your handwritten signature above your typed name.
Contact Information
Include your phone number and email address below your name, even if they're already in the header. This makes it easy for the hiring manager to contact you.
By crafting a strong closing, you'll reinforce your candidacy and increase the likelihood of securing an interview for the advertising position you desire.
Strong Example
Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my creative skills and strategic thinking to your award-winning team at XYZ Advertising. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how my experience in developing successful multi-channel campaigns aligns with your agency's innovative approach. I will follow up next week to inquire about the status of my application and the potential for an interview. Thank you again for your time and consideration.
Why is this a strong example?
This is a strong cover letter closing for several reasons. First, it expresses gratitude and enthusiasm, which leaves a positive impression. It specifically mentions the company ('XYZ Advertising') and highlights the applicant's knowledge of the company's reputation ('award-winning team'). The closing also reiterates the applicant's relevant skills ('creative skills and strategic thinking') and experience ('developing successful multi-channel campaigns'), connecting them directly to the company's needs. Additionally, it demonstrates proactivity by mentioning a follow-up plan, which shows initiative and genuine interest in the position. The tone is professional yet personable, striking a good balance for the advertising industry. Overall, this closing effectively summarizes the applicant's value proposition and leaves the door open for further communication.
Weak Example
Thanks for your time. I hope to hear from you soon about this job. Have a nice day!
Why is this a weak example?
This closing is weak for several reasons. First, it lacks enthusiasm and fails to reinforce the candidate's interest in the position. The casual tone ('Thanks for your time') is inappropriate for a professional cover letter. Additionally, it doesn't include any call to action or express eagerness for next steps. The phrase 'Have a nice day!' is too informal and doesn't leave a lasting impression. A strong closing should reiterate interest, thank the reader professionally, and express enthusiasm for future communication. This example fails to capitalize on the opportunity to make a final impactful statement and stand out in the competitive advertising industry.
Cover Letter FAQs for Advertising
What is the ideal format and length for an advertising cover letter?
An advertising cover letter should be concise, typically one page long. Use a professional business letter format with your contact information, date, recipient's details, a formal salutation, 3-4 paragraphs of content, a closing, and your signature. Keep it between 250-400 words to ensure it's impactful yet brief.
What key elements should I include in my advertising cover letter?
Your advertising cover letter should include: a strong opening statement, your relevant skills and experiences, specific examples of your achievements in advertising, knowledge of the company you're applying to, your passion for the industry, and a clear call-to-action for next steps.
How can I make my advertising cover letter stand out?
To make your cover letter stand out, showcase your creativity, use industry-specific language, mention successful campaigns you've worked on, demonstrate your understanding of current advertising trends, and tailor the content to the specific job and company you're applying to.
Should I include samples of my work in my advertising cover letter?
While it's not necessary to include actual samples in your cover letter, you should mention notable projects or campaigns you've worked on. Briefly describe your role and the results achieved. You can also direct the reader to your portfolio or website where they can view your work samples.
How do I address salary expectations in an advertising cover letter?
It's generally best to avoid mentioning salary expectations in your cover letter unless specifically requested. If asked, provide a range based on industry standards and your experience. Focus the letter on your qualifications and value you can bring to the role rather than compensation.
Is it necessary to research the company before writing an advertising cover letter?
Yes, researching the company is crucial. It allows you to tailor your letter to the company's needs, demonstrate your genuine interest, and show how your skills align with their goals and culture. Mention specific company projects or campaigns that interest you to make a stronger impression.