Cover letter for overqualified candidate(5 samples)
By
OptimistMinds
As a BetterHelp affiliate, we may receive compensation from BetterHelp if you purchase products or services through the links provided.
Author bio
The Optimistminds editorial team is made up of psychologists, psychiatrists and mental health professionals. Each article is written by a team member with exposure to and experience in the subject matter. The article then gets reviewed by a more senior editorial member. This is someone with extensive knowledge of the subject matter and highly cited published material.
This blog post will show samples of “cover letters for an overqualified candidate.”
How to write a cover letter when you are overqualified
To get any position, you need a well-written cover letter that showcases your passion for and dedication to the industry. When writing a cover letter for an overqualified candidate, these are some of the essential things to include in your letter:
- Address the employer with a formal salutation. For example, “Dear/Hello (name of the recipient or hiring manager).”
- The next step is to state the position you are applying for and how you found the opening.
- Write a short sentence about why you’re interested in the position.
- State your skills and work experience; ensure they are similar to the job position. When stating your skills, provide the accomplishment you have achieved.
- Conclude your letter with a forward-looking statement. For example, “I look forward to discussing the position further.”
Sample 1: “Cover letters for an overqualified candidate”
“Richard Jones
PO Box 100 Nashville, TN 37201 | 257 458-0124| rjones@email.com
January 1, 2021
Sarah Romero
(HR Manager)
sromero@designcoemail.com
Dear Sarah Romero,
I am writing to express my interest in the graphic design position at Design Co. as advertised on Indeed. For the last four years, I have successfully led a team of designers as Creative Director at Phillip’s Design in New York. Since relocating to Nashville, I’m excited to return to a more hands-on and creative role where I can apply my experience within a team. I am confident that my skills and experience make me a strong candidate to fulfill the needs of your creative team.
Before moving into a supervisory position, I served as a digital graphic designer at Design Co. for eight years, following my passion for crafting digital content, brand identity design and marketing campaigns. I truly enjoy the design process and working with a team of equally devoted, creative graphic designers. My expert knowledge and familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite, HTML and CSS will allow me to implement your design initiatives immediately when brought on board.
I have long admired the work I’ve seen from Design Co. and your company’s client-focused mission statement, which balances creative freedom and design excellence. As I’ve progressed in my career, I’ve not only increased my skills and experience but also my appreciation for what initially drew me to graphic design. My desire for challenging projects, creative expression and design innovation will allow me to play a vital role in your graphic design team.
Please find my resume and portfolio enclosed for your review. I look forward to speaking with you soon about the skills I can bring to this graphic design position at Design Co. In the meantime, don’t hesitate to contact me at rjones@email.com if I can provide any additional information for your consideration. Thank you for your time and attention.
Sincerely,
Richard Jones”
Sample 2: “Cover letters for an overqualified candidate”
“Jonathan Smith
1 Chestnut Street
Middle City, CA 98765
555-212-1234
me@mywebsite.com
November 2, 2019
Rosemarie Johnson
Recruiter, Human Resources
Brainy Toys, Inc.
7 Main Street
Middle City, CA 98765
Dear Ms. Johnson,
I was excited to see your advertisement for the position of administrative assistant and would like to apply for the job. I’ve been a big fan of Brainy Toys ever since my favorite uncle bought me my first Junior Chemistry Set for my 10th birthday. (He was my favorite uncle for a reason!)
Even today, in my current job as Executive Assistant to the Director at ABC Corp, I have a Pocket Herb Garden and an Abracadabra Abacus on my desk. I’d love to come to work every day and know that I was using my skills and experience in support of products I love.
In terms of the requirements outlined in your ad, I have:
- Excellent phone and interpersonal skills
- Extensive experience maintaining filing systems, organizing and scheduling meetings, booking travel arrangements, and ordering office supplies
- Attention to detail and organizational skills
Facility with the most popular office and project management software programs, including Microsoft Office, Trello, and Asana – plus a high level of comfort with new platforms and a willingness to learn
A commitment to working as a team and achieving our goals
I’m confident that my skills and passion for your products and company make me a good choice for this role. I’m happy to provide you with references or any additional materials that might be useful. I’ve included my resume and hope to hear from you soon to discuss the job in more detail.
Sincerely,
Signature (hard copy letter)
Jonathan Smith”
Sample 3: “Cover letters for an overqualified candidate”
“Sir Mr. (Surname)
(Address of the company)
(Position of the job you are applying for)
I am very interested in (job position) available at (company name) and I hope that my qualification will not be a problem and can be an asset to the company.
I have been working as (job position) in (department name) in (company name) for (year of experience), (Your achievements in the company). I am a hard working person and I complete my task in the given target time. And I also have work experience in (department name).
I look forward from hearing from you and to have a positive response from your side.
Sincerely
(Your name)”
Sample 4: “Cover letters for an overqualified candidate”
“Dear hiring manager,
I am writing to apply for the open position of Overnight Stocker at your company. I am confident that I have the skills and qualifications that you are looking for, and I am eager to put my experience to work for your company.
I have over three years of experience working in the retail industry, and I have a deep understanding of the demands of this role. I am able to work independently and efficiently to meet deadlines and quotas. I am also able to handle difficult customer service inquiries and resolve complaints quickly and effectively.
In addition to my experience and skills, I have the drive and determination to succeed in this role. I am a hard worker who is always willing to go the extra mile to get the job done. I am also a team player who is able to work well with others.
I would like to thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Your name”
Sample 5: “Cover letters for an overqualified candidate”
“Dear Mrs. Brown,
I am writing to express my interest in the Overnight Stocker position at your store. I believe that my experience as a stocker and my ability to work independently make me an excellent candidate for this position.
I have been working in the retail industry for the past five years, most recently as a stocker at Big Box Mart. My duties there included stocking shelves, organizing inventory and cleaning the store. I also worked closely with customers to ensure their satisfaction. I was promoted to Assistant Manager after only two years on the job.
My experience has taught me how to work quickly and efficiently, how to prioritize tasks and how to handle difficult situations with poise and professionalism. I am confident that these skills will serve me well in your store.
I would like to thank you for considering me for this position. I look forward to hearing from you soon.”
Frequently Asked Questions: How to write a cover letter when you are overqualified
Are cover letters necessary for any job?
Yes. A well-crafted cover letter can help to bridge the gap between your lack of practice experience and other applicants who have plenty.
How do I express my interest in a job?
“Dear [Name], With the utmost enthusiasm, I would like to express my interest in the [position title] position at [Company]. My interest in [field, industry, or other themes] has taken me from [experience] to [experience].”
If you like this blog post, please leave your comments and questions below.
Citations
