How to write a cover letter for an internal position?

Writing a cover letter for internal position is a bit different from an external cover letter. However, it is a must-have, as 60% of hiring managers demand cover letters from job applicants.

In an internal cover letter, your goal is to show your history of success with the company and highlight your willingness to grow with the company. Below, you will find tips on how to write a good cover letter for an internal position, along with examples for your inspiration.

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How to write an internal position cover letter?

As you already work within the organization and know its values and processes, it might put you in a favorable position. Yet, your cover letter should prove that you qualify. Here is how to write a cover letter that appeals to a hiring manager:

Use a personalized salutation

As an internal candidate, you can find out the name of the person responsible for hiring. Address them by name (for example, Dear Martha Matthews) and avoid generic salutations like Dear Hiring Manager or To whom it may concern.

Add a strong opening paragraph

Mention your current position in the company and your enthusiasm to join a new position with a different department. Share your career goals that align with the requirements for your target internal position. Include 2-3 key qualifications or achievements that will instantly capture their attention.

Demonstrate company knowledge

Use the knowledge of company culture to distinguish yourself from external candidates. Show that you stand for the company values and know how the processes work. You may use internal jargon or mention important company milestones you contributed to. All this will encourage the hiring manager that it is easier to hire you over external applicants, thus increasing your chances for an internal job transfer.

Highlight your successes

No cover letter is effective without achievements in your current job. In the letter body, give overview of your most notable achievements and contributions. Add figures and percentages to illustrate your impact. Show that you are willing to contribute to company's continued success in the future, and explain how your past achievements align with the new job requirements.

Address the concerns proactively

If your career history has any issues, address them proactively in a cover letter. For example, if you have been with the company for less than a year, you might want to explain the desire to switch departments so soon. You might also write that you will help train your replacement so that the performance of your current department doesn't suffer.

Find a trusted referral

The best strategy is including the name of a coworker or manager who can vouch for you. You can contact someone in your target department or your current supervisor/coworker. A person who can confirm your work ethics and achievement will help prove that you are an ideal candidate. Be sure to add the person's name in the first paragraph of the letter.

Keep the length appropriate

48% of hiring managers spend 30 seconds to 2 minutes reading a cover letter. So, the ideal cover letter length is 3-5 paragraphs. By keeping the letter focused, you'll show excellent communication skills and your knowledge of the hiring process.

Use a professional tone

To write the perfect cover letter, mind the writing style and formatting. Keep the language professional and clear. Avoid any negative information or complaints. Make sure to proofread the letter before submitting it so that it is free from any mistakes.

Use a professional format with a simple font and clear layout. Keep the font readable, and use short paragraphs and bullets. Make sure that your letter's format matches that of your resume.

Internal hires cost 1.7x less than picking an external candidate. Thus, the company would rather hire an internal applicant that someone form the outside. If you craft an effective internal job application and underline your strengths, you'll have every chance for a desired position.

Cover letter for internal position example

To get the idea about how to write a professional cover letter for an internal role, look at this sample cover letter:

Image: https://blog.drjobpro.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Cover-letter-for-internal-position-example.jpg

Why is this a good cover letter? Firstly, this letter draws attention instantly as it uses a professional structure and format. The first paragraph starts with a current job title and specifies the target position and the motivation to switch to a different department. Next, the letter shows how the candidate contributed to the company's success. It features generating a 6% profit increase and onboarding 4 employees. The final paragraph mentions the reference in the Sales Department, which is a great strategy for internal positions.

How to write a cover letter for promotion

If you are aiming for an internal promotion, a well-crafted cover letter is a must. You need to make a compelling case why you are a top candidate and what you can bring to the table. Here is how to write the best cover letter:

Start professionally

Just like in a regular internal position cover letter, use a professional salutation. Start it like any other letter for job search by adding the company name and company address. Use professional formatting, readable font, and a distinct layout to make the right impression in seconds.

Express enthusiasm and dedication

Mention your current position title and the new position you have in mind. Since this is a cover letter for internal position, showcase your enthusiasm about the promotion opportunity. Express your commitment to the company and your willingness to do even more if promoted. Make sure that you sound confident and positive - it will help distinguish your letter from other candidates.

Align it with the company's goals

Since this is not an external job application, you know the company's processes and goals well. Underline how your long-term career goals align with the company's mission and goals. Thinking strategically will help you stand out. Consider the goals and challenges your target department is facing right now, and explain how you can contribute.

Showcase achievements

For someone seeking more responsibility in internal positions, bragging current achievements is a must. Look back at your employment history and reiterate your biggest achievements with the company. Give numbers and explain how your efforts helped the company prosper. Thus, you will prove that you are equipped with the right skills for success.

Highlight your leadership abilities

If you are aiming for a team lead, department head, or similar managerial role, recall your leadership experience. For example, you can write about training and onboarding new employees or replacing your supervisor while they were away. Think about your experience in guiding, supervising, and coaching others to increase your chances for promotion.

End with a call to action

At the end of the letter, reiterate what makes you different from other internal applicants and add a call to action. Ask for an opportunity for further discussion and willingness to elaborate on your skills, qualifications, and the transition into the new role.

Make sure that your letter is professionally organized, error-free, and focused on the requirements of the role, not only on your desire of being promoted. Demonstrating company knowledge and the focus on resolving the challenges it faces are essential to stand out.

Promotion cover letter example

Here is an example cover letter for an internal promotion:

Image: https://assets.qwikresume.com/uploads/2020/08/new-1-791x1024.jpg

Why is this a good cover letter? The introduction explains how the candidate learned about the position and why they feel they might be a perfect fit for it. The candidate reiterates their tenure with the company and progressive growth of responsibility. This internal cover letter also lists measurable achievements of achieving 100% of sales target and winning loyal clients. They explain how previous positions within the company equipped them with the skills needed to excel in a target role. Moreover, the letter has an easy-to-read structure, is professionally formatted, and ends with a convincing call to action.

Use these cover letter examples for your inspiration only, as a good cover letter should focus on what makes your unique and specific achievements.

Need help perfecting your internal cover letter?

Not sure if your cover letter will help you secure an internal position? Our experts can edit and perfect your letter to maximize your chances for success. We will strengthen the letter structure, add achievements, and customize it to the position you have in mind at a very affordable price. Chat with us to discuss how we can help you today!