Getting a job at Amazon is a big goal for many people. One key part of applying is writing a good cover letter. This letter is your chance to show why you're the right person for the job at Amazon.
A cover letter for Amazon is different from other companies. Amazon looks for specific things in their workers. They want people who can think big, work hard, and solve problems. Your cover letter should show these qualities.
Writing a cover letter might seem hard, but it doesn't have to be. With the right tips and an example to follow, you can write a letter that gets noticed. This article will help you understand what Amazon wants to see in a cover letter. We'll also give you steps to write your own letter and show you an example.
Remember, a good cover letter can make a big difference in your job search. It's your first chance to talk to Amazon about why they should hire you. By following our advice, you can write a letter that shows your best skills and makes Amazon want to know more about you.
Amazon Cover Letter Example
Dear Mr. Jeffery Robinson,
I am writing to express my strong interest in the Amazon position at Jeff Bezos. As an enthusiastic and dedicated professional, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills and passion to your esteemed organization.
With a deep understanding of Amazon's innovative culture and commitment to customer obsession, I am confident that my unique blend of skills and experiences make me an ideal candidate for this role. Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic, adaptability, and a keen ability to learn quickly – qualities that align perfectly with Amazon's leadership principles.
While my background may not be explicitly mentioned, I have developed a robust skill set that includes:
- Data-driven decision making
- Problem-solving and analytical thinking
- Excellent communication and teamwork abilities
- Adaptability to fast-paced environments
- Strong attention to detail and process improvement
I am particularly drawn to Amazon's commitment to innovation and its mission to be Earth's most customer-centric company. I am excited about the prospect of contributing to groundbreaking projects and initiatives that push the boundaries of what's possible in e-commerce and technology.
Furthermore, I am well-versed in Amazon's leadership principles, such as Customer Obsession, Ownership, Invent and Simplify, and Deliver Results. I am prepared to embody these principles in my daily work and contribute to the company's continued success and growth.
I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and enthusiasm can contribute to your team's success. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of speaking with you soon about how I can add value to Jeff Bezos and the Amazon team.
Sincerely,
Diane Nguyen
How to Write & Format a Cover Letter Header
The header of your Amazon cover letter sets the tone for your application and provides essential contact information. A well-crafted header ensures your letter looks professional and makes it easy for recruiters to reach you.
Key Elements of a Cover Letter Header
Your header should include:
- Your full name
- Phone number
- Email address
- City and state (optional)
- LinkedIn profile URL (optional)
Formatting Tips
Keep your header clean and easy to read. Use a professional font and ensure proper spacing. Align the header to the left or center of the page, matching the format of your resume for consistency.
Amazon-Specific Considerations
When applying to Amazon, consider including relevant details such as:
- The specific job title you're applying for
- The job ID number (if provided)
- The date of application
Professional Email Address
Ensure your email address is professional, ideally using some variation of your name. Avoid using casual or humorous email addresses for job applications.
Additional Contact Information
If applicable, include your personal website or portfolio URL, especially if you're applying for a technical or creative role at Amazon.
By creating a clear and informative header, you'll make a strong first impression and provide Amazon recruiters with all the necessary information to contact you about your application.
Greeting Your Potential Employer
After crafting a professional header, the next crucial element of your Amazon cover letter is the greeting. This seemingly small detail sets the tone for your entire letter and demonstrates your attention to professionalism and etiquette.
Research the recipient
Whenever possible, address your cover letter to a specific person. Take the time to research the hiring manager's name or the person responsible for reviewing applications. LinkedIn and Amazon's company website can be valuable resources for this information.
Use a professional salutation
If you have a name, use "Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Last Name]:" If you're unsure about the recipient's gender, use their full name: "Dear [Full Name]:"
When in doubt, choose a generic greeting
If you can't find a specific name, opt for a professional, gender-neutral greeting such as:
- "Dear Hiring Manager:"
- "Dear Amazon Recruiting Team:"
- "Dear [Department Name] Team:"
Avoid outdated or overly casual greetings like "To Whom It May Enter" or "Hello!" A well-chosen greeting shows respect and sets a professional tone for the rest of your cover letter, increasing your chances of making a positive first impression on Amazon's hiring team.
Introducing Yourself in a Cover Letter
The introduction of your Amazon cover letter is crucial as it sets the tone for the rest of your application. This section is your opportunity to grab the reader's attention and make a strong first impression. A well-crafted introduction should be concise, engaging, and tailored to the specific role you're applying for at Amazon.
When writing your introduction, focus on these key elements:
Express enthusiasm
Begin by conveying your genuine excitement about the opportunity to work at Amazon. Mention the specific position you're applying for and briefly explain why you're interested in joining the company.
Highlight your qualifications
Quickly summarize your most relevant qualifications that align with the job requirements. This could include your educational background, years of experience, or particular skills that make you a strong candidate.
Mention a connection
If you have a referral or connection to Amazon, such as a current employee who recommended you apply, mention this in your introduction. This can help establish credibility and potentially give you an edge.
Demonstrate company knowledge
Show that you've done your research by referencing Amazon's culture, values, or recent achievements. This demonstrates your genuine interest in the company and helps you stand out from other applicants.
Include a hook
Consider including a brief statement or accomplishment that piques the reader's interest and encourages them to continue reading your letter. This could be a unique skill, an impressive achievement, or a compelling reason why you're an ideal fit for the role.
Remember to keep your introduction concise and focused, aiming for about 2-3 sentences. Your goal is to create a strong foundation for the rest of your cover letter, enticing the reader to learn more about your qualifications and potential contributions to Amazon.
Strong Example
Dear Hiring Manager,
As a passionate technologist and long-time admirer of Amazon's innovative culture, I am thrilled to apply for the Software Development Engineer position at Amazon Web Services. With over 5 years of experience in building scalable cloud solutions and a track record of delivering customer-centric products, I am eager to contribute to Amazon's mission of being Earth's most customer-centric company. My expertise in distributed systems and machine learning aligns perfectly with AWS's cutting-edge services, and I am excited about the prospect of pushing the boundaries of cloud computing alongside your talented team.
Why is this a strong example?
This is a strong cover letter introduction for several reasons. First, it immediately demonstrates enthusiasm for the specific company (Amazon) and role (Software Development Engineer at AWS). It shows that the applicant has done their research by mentioning Amazon's innovative culture and mission statement. The introduction also clearly states the applicant's relevant experience (5 years in cloud solutions) and how it relates to the position. By mentioning specific technical skills (distributed systems, machine learning) that are relevant to AWS, the applicant shows they understand the job requirements. The language is confident and forward-looking, expressing eagerness to contribute and grow with the company. Overall, this introduction is concise yet informative, tailored to Amazon, and likely to capture the reader's attention.
Weak Example
To whom it may concern,
I am writing to apply for a position at Amazon. I saw your job posting online and thought I would be a good fit. I have some experience in retail and customer service, and I think I could do well at your company. Amazon is a big company, and I've always wanted to work for a large corporation.
Why is this a weak example?
This is a weak cover letter introduction for several reasons. Firstly, it starts with a generic salutation instead of addressing a specific person or department, showing a lack of effort in researching the company. The opening is vague and doesn't specify which position the applicant is interested in, indicating a lack of focus. The writer fails to demonstrate enthusiasm or knowledge about Amazon, merely stating it's a 'big company.' There's no mention of specific skills or qualifications that align with Amazon's needs or culture. The language is casual and lacks professionalism, using phrases like 'I think I could do well.' Overall, this introduction fails to grab attention, doesn't showcase the applicant's value, and doesn't demonstrate a genuine interest in or understanding of Amazon as a potential employer.
Writing the Body of Your Cover Letter
The body of your Amazon cover letter is where you can showcase your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role. This section should highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that align with Amazon's leadership principles and the specific job requirements.
Highlight Relevant Skills and Experiences
Focus on 2-3 key qualifications that make you an ideal candidate for the position. Provide specific examples of how you've demonstrated these skills in your previous roles or projects.
Align with Amazon's Culture
Demonstrate your understanding of Amazon's leadership principles and company culture. Show how your values and work ethic align with Amazon's customer-centric approach and innovative mindset.
Quantify Your Achievements
Use concrete numbers and metrics to illustrate your accomplishments. This helps to provide tangible evidence of your capabilities and the value you can bring to Amazon.
Show Your Passion
Express your genuine interest in working for Amazon and explain why you're excited about the specific role or team. This enthusiasm can help set you apart from other applicants.
Address Job Requirements
Ensure you address the key requirements listed in the job description. Provide examples of how your skills and experiences directly relate to these requirements.
Keep It Concise
While the body is the meat of your cover letter, remember to keep it concise and focused. Aim for 2-3 paragraphs that pack a punch without being overly lengthy.
Strong Example
As a passionate software engineer with over five years of experience in developing scalable web applications, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to Amazon's mission of being Earth's most customer-centric company. My background in cloud computing, specifically with AWS services, aligns perfectly with Amazon's technological infrastructure. I have successfully led teams in implementing microservices architecture and containerization using Docker and Kubernetes, resulting in a 40% improvement in application performance and deployment efficiency. Additionally, my experience in machine learning and data analytics has enabled me to develop innovative solutions that have increased user engagement by 25% in previous roles. I am particularly drawn to Amazon's culture of innovation and its commitment to operational excellence, as these values resonate deeply with my own professional ethos. I am confident that my technical skills, leadership experience, and passion for solving complex problems would make me a valuable asset to your team.
Why is this a strong example?
This is a strong example for several reasons. First, it immediately highlights relevant experience and skills that align with Amazon's needs, such as software engineering and AWS expertise. The candidate demonstrates specific knowledge of Amazon's mission and values, showing research and genuine interest in the company. They provide concrete examples of their achievements, using quantifiable metrics (40% improvement, 25% increase) which adds credibility and shows impact. The mention of specific technologies (microservices, Docker, Kubernetes) showcases up-to-date technical knowledge. The candidate also touches on soft skills like leadership and problem-solving, which are highly valued at Amazon. Finally, they express enthusiasm and confidence without being overly boastful, striking a good balance. This content is tailored, specific, and demonstrates both technical prowess and cultural fit, making it a strong cover letter body for Amazon.
Weak Example
I am writing to apply for the position at Amazon. I have always been a fan of online shopping and I think it would be cool to work for such a big company. I have some experience in customer service from my previous job at a local grocery store. I am a hard worker and I learn quickly. I think I would be a good fit for this role because I use Amazon a lot and I know how the website works.
Why is this a weak example?
This is a weak example of a cover letter body for Amazon because it lacks specificity, professionalism, and fails to demonstrate a deep understanding of the company or the role. The content is overly casual ('it would be cool to work for such a big company') and doesn't highlight relevant skills or experiences that align with Amazon's needs. The applicant relies on being a customer as a qualification, which is not compelling. There's no mention of Amazon's leadership principles, company culture, or specific contributions the applicant could make. The example also fails to showcase any research about the position or company, making it appear generic and lacking effort. A strong cover letter should be tailored to the specific role, highlight relevant accomplishments, and demonstrate enthusiasm for the company's mission and values.
How to Close Your Cover Letter
Closing your Amazon cover letter effectively is crucial for leaving a lasting impression. A strong closing reinforces your enthusiasm for the position and motivates the hiring manager to take action.
To wrap up your cover letter, begin by reiterating your interest in the role and your confidence in your ability to contribute to Amazon's success. Briefly summarize one or two key qualifications that make you an ideal candidate. Express your eagerness to discuss your application further in an interview.
Use a professional closing phrase 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.
Remember to proofread your entire cover letter, paying special attention to the closing paragraph. Ensure there are no grammatical errors or typos that could detract from your overall presentation.
Finally, if you're submitting your application electronically, save your cover letter as a PDF to preserve formatting across different devices and operating systems. This attention to detail demonstrates your professionalism and commitment to quality – traits highly valued at Amazon.
Strong Example
Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to Amazon's mission of being Earth's most customer-centric company. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how my skills and passion for innovation align with Amazon's goals. I am eager to learn more about how I can help drive Amazon's continued success and would welcome the chance to speak with you further about this exciting opportunity.
Why is this a strong example?
This is a strong cover letter closing for several reasons. First, it expresses genuine enthusiasm for the company and the position, showing the candidate's interest and motivation. It specifically mentions Amazon's mission, demonstrating research and alignment with the company's values. The closing also highlights the candidate's potential contributions, focusing on innovation and driving success, which are key aspects of Amazon's culture. Additionally, it strikes a good balance between confidence and humility, expressing eagerness to learn more while also suggesting the value the candidate could bring. The language is professional yet personable, and it clearly invites further communication, potentially leading to an interview. Overall, this closing leaves a positive final impression and reinforces the candidate's suitability for the role at Amazon.
Weak Example
I hope you'll consider me for this position. Please let me know if you need any additional information. Thanks for your time.
Why is this a weak example?
This closing is weak for several reasons. First, it lacks enthusiasm and confidence, using phrases like 'I hope' which can make the applicant seem unsure. Second, it's generic and could be used for any company, showing no specific interest in Amazon. Third, it doesn't reiterate the applicant's value or express eagerness to contribute to Amazon's mission. Finally, it ends with a casual 'Thanks' which is too informal for a professional cover letter. A strong closing should confidently express interest, reaffirm the applicant's fit for the role, and demonstrate knowledge of Amazon's culture and values.
Cover Letter FAQs for Amazon
What is the ideal format and length for an Amazon cover letter?
An Amazon cover letter should be concise, typically one page long (300-400 words). Use a professional business letter format with your contact information, date, and Amazon's address. Structure it with an opening paragraph, 1-2 body paragraphs highlighting relevant skills and experiences, and a closing paragraph. Use a clean, readable font like Arial or Calibri, 11-12 point size, with 1-inch margins.
How should I address my cover letter for an Amazon application?
If you know the name of the hiring manager or recruiter, address your letter to them directly (e.g., 'Dear Mr. Smith'). If you don't have a specific name, use 'Dear Hiring Manager' or 'Dear Amazon Recruiting Team'. Avoid generic salutations like 'To Whom It May Concern'.
What key elements should I include in my Amazon cover letter?
Your Amazon cover letter should include: 1) A strong opening statement expressing your interest in the specific role, 2) Examples of your relevant skills and experiences that align with Amazon's Leadership Principles, 3) Specific achievements that demonstrate your potential value to Amazon, 4) Your knowledge of Amazon and why you want to work there, and 5) A call to action in your closing paragraph.
How can I incorporate Amazon's Leadership Principles into my cover letter?
Choose 2-3 Leadership Principles most relevant to the position you're applying for. Then, provide specific examples from your experience that demonstrate these principles in action. For instance, if highlighting 'Customer Obsession', describe a situation where you went above and beyond to satisfy a customer's needs.
Should I mention my technical skills in my Amazon cover letter?
Yes, if you're applying for a technical role. Briefly highlight your most relevant technical skills and how you've applied them in past projects or roles. However, don't simply list skills; instead, focus on how these skills have helped you achieve results that align with Amazon's goals and culture.
How can I make my Amazon cover letter stand out?
To make your cover letter stand out: 1) Tailor it specifically to Amazon and the role you're applying for, 2) Use strong, action-oriented language and concrete examples of your achievements, 3) Show your understanding of Amazon's culture and values, 4) Be concise and to-the-point, avoiding fluff or generic statements, and 5) Proofread carefully to ensure there are no errors or typos.