Tips for Administrative Assistant Cover Letters
You are going to be judged by your ability to write and compose correspondence. Your cover letter is no different. It must be succinct, interesting, factual, and error free. The points you must make include why you are contacting them, informing the HR person how you learned of their opening, and what, specifically, qualifies you for the position. This is a good opportunity to showcase your research and communication skills.
The structure of your cover letter will show the reader your technical understanding of how a letter should be constructed. In secretarial school, administrative assistants are taught where to place the date, inside address, salutation, closing signature, as well as how to indicate who is being copied (cc) or blind copied (bcc) and what the enclosure is (enclosure, attachment or list of recipients).
If you are unsure how to set up a letter, follow the samples here and conduct further research.
Seeking to work in an accounting firm
Date
Mr. John Smith
Department Manager
ABC Company
1234 E. Main Street
Any Town, US 55555
Dear Mr. Smith:
I am very interested in joining an organization such as (name the organization). During my online research, I was very excited to learn about the current opening for a (specify position), and feel my qualifications and your requirements are a good match. For your review, I have attached my resume for your consideration.
As an administrative assistant with experience reporting directly to senior level financial executives from Controllers to CFO of major organizations highlighted on my resume, I would like to return to the field of finance.In my current position with ABC Water Pumps, I work directly with accounting managers, but it is a small company and I am used to working in large organizations that offer more challenge and structure.
I would enjoy the opportunity to discuss this further in an interview. Please know that I am able to start upon giving two week’s notice, and although my salary requirement is in the upper range of $40k, I am willing to consider another offer if there is potential for professional growth with your organization.
Thank you in advance for allowing me to explain my situation.
Sincerely,
Transitioning from managing corporate mailroom operations
Date
Mr. John Smith
Department Manager
ABC Company
1234 E. Main Street
Any Town, US 55555
Dear Mr. Smith:
I am very interested in joining an organization such as (name the organization). During my research, I was excited to learn about the current opening for an administrative staff member, and feel my qualifications and your requirements are a good match. For your review, I have attached my resume for your consideration.
I offer more than six years of experience coordinating corporate mailroom operations and administrative activities as the company’s point of contact for all deliverables throughout the day.It is ironic that the cliche, “works in the mailroom,” has such a negative connotation when, in fact, the scope of my responsibilities are so involved and important that everyone in the company jokes that the place would fall apart without me. The truth is, it would be far from a laughing matter if the communications and schedules were mishandled in anyway. It really is a very important job, and I do it well.
Sometimes it is difficult to move up in a company when no one else wants the job and when a person does such a job so efficiently. I am experiencing a sense of guilt for wanting to leave the position because the company would literally be in a state of confusion for weeks on end.
But I must move on. I have so much to offer in an administrative position as the right-arm assistant to a senior executive. In addition to managing calendars, meetings, travel arrangements, expense reports, and preparing all written correspondence and reports, I would be an invaluable manager of large-scale projects that require a great attention to detail and follow through to make sure it is done correctly and on-time.
In addition to my administrative abilities and project coordination skills, I possess exceptional interpersonal communications skills. I am a true “people person” who gets along well with all levels of an organization in a very professional manner. I have a knack for names and numbers and can memorize an extensive amount of information and recall it at will. This is a valuable skill to have when someone asks questions about something on the spot. I have been known to save the day on several occasions exercising this innate skill.
If you feel there is a mutual interest, I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you to learn more about your company, the requirements of the position, and how my qualifications would be a good fit.
Thank you in advance for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Secretary With Bookkeeping Experience
Date
Mr. John Smith
Department Manager
ABC Company
1234 E. Main Street
Any Town, US 55555
Dear Mr. Smith:
I am very interested in joining an organization such as (name the organization). During my online research, I was very excited to learn about the current opening for a (specify position), and feel my qualifications and your requirements are a good match. For your review, I have attached my resume for your consideration.
I am an experienced secretary with a background working for two electrical contracting companies and currently for Make-U, a popular women’s clothing manufacturer. In my position as department secretary with Make-U, I oversee day-to-day office activities, which includes answering telephones, filing and typing to assisting with bookkeeping functions such as A/P, A/R, invoicing, billing and assisting with weekly payroll processing, as well as training and supervising two office clerks.Furthermore, I maintain a proficiency in software programs such as MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint, as well QuickBooks. In my current position, use these programs to prepare correspondence transcribed from tapes that include memos and a full day’s worth of work from my three supervisors. They know I can manage whatever they instruct me to do and I will take care of everything in their absence.
With everything that I do, I would like to do more. Specifically, I would like to be more involved in the handling of customer service, sales and marketing activities. I believe with all of my experience, skills and desire to learn more would be an asset to a very busy office that can use someone with such diversified skills.
If you feel there is a mutual interest, I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you to learn more about your company, the requirements of the position, and how my qualifications would be a good fit.
Thank you in advance for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Transitioning From Office Manager To Executive Assistant
Date
Mr. John Smith
Department Manager
ABC Company
1234 E. Main Street
Any Town, US 55555
Dear Mr. Smith:
I am very interested in joining an organization such as (name the organization). During my online research, I was very excited to learn about the current opening for a (specify position), and feel my qualifications and your requirements are a good match. For your review, I have attached my resume for your consideration.
My goal is to secure a position with an organization offering professional development and career growth opportunities. I realize this might come across as self-serving, but I have much to offer and have been limiting myself for years by working in small companies. I do not regret anything; in fact, working for small companies has required me to wear many hats. I am now looking to transfer my well rounded experience to a position as an executive assistant supporting a senior executive in a corporate office environment.
My associates degree in business administration and experience working for various small companies as an office manager would certainly be a value. For me, my work is more than a job. I am someone who has stayed late and worked many weekends to make sure special projects were taken care of — whether an event, an annual audit or various phases of an ISO compliance process.
As an experience office manager, I have practically run the companies I’ve worked for on a small level; I believe this experience equates to running a large corporate department.
I have always been depended upon by company owners to manage everything in their absence – important skills that would be used extensively managing a busy executive’s day, from business calendar, producing correspondence, client relations, marketing, record keeping, and ensuring swift problem resolution and a high degree of discretion.
It is this extensive experience and work ethic that I would like to bring to your organization in an executive assistant position.
If you feel there is a mutual interest, I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you to learn more about your company, the requirements of the position, and how my qualifications would be a good fit.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Transitioning to Finance (As an administrative assistant)
Date
Mr. John Smith
Department Manager
ABC Company
1234 E. Main Street
Any Town, US 55555
Dear Mr. Smith:
I am very interested in joining an organization such as (name the organization). During my online research, I was very excited to learn about the current opening for a (specify position), and feel my qualifications and your requirements are a good match. For your review, I have attached my resume for your consideration.
I am in search of an administrative assistant position with a financial services organization. My qualifications include more than seven years of experience in the role of administrative assistant reporting directly to mid-to-senior level executives in the music entertainment industry, and an associates degree in business administration with a concentration in economics.Finance has always been a strong interest of mine. When I graduated, my career direction was undecided. Through extensive networking, I was recruited to my current position, and gladly accepted because the company is a major organization and I knew I would develop myself professionally in many ways — and would give back twice as much.
With so many tasks that I tend to on a daily basis, one of my favorites is preparing Excel spreadsheets, preparing budget reports and forecasting business trends for the group.
I am a quick study who rapidly adapts to business needs and takes the necessary steps to ensure clear communication and swift problem resolution exercising what I’ve learned working closely with key decision makers who have served as both my managers and mentors.
Furthermore, I am a proactive person who takes the initiative to get things done and anticipates what’s to come in order to stay one step ahead of everyone to avoid misunderstandings and to ensure productivity.
If you feel there is a mutual interest, I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you to learn more about your company, the requirements of the position, and how my qualifications would be a good fit.
Thank you in advance for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Attachment: Resume
Seeking a position that will utilize diversified experience “wearing many hats”
Date
Mr. John Smith
Department Manager
ABC Company
1234 E. Main Street
Any Town, US 55555
Dear Mr. Smith:
I am very interested in joining an organization such as (name the organization). During my research, I was excited to learn about the current opening for a (specify position), and feel my qualifications and your requirements are a good match. For your review, I have attached my resume for your consideration.
I have heard that having too much experience or having a background that is too diversified can come across as being unfocused or “all over the place.” I would like to think that it is a good thing, and that an employer would see it as getting more value for their investment in an employee.I agree that it is important to have specialized skills in a given area such office administration, sales, marketing, and information technology. But what happens when you have strong skills in all of the above? If you feel as I do that it is more of an advantage than a disadvantage, I would like to be considered for the position as office manager.
I feel my diverse background has prepared me well to oversee the broad demands of this role, from coordinating workflow activities, managing full-charge bookkeeping activities and supervising a staff to handling special projects, key client relations and vendor contracts and assisting in sales and marketing activities to develop and promote new business at events and online.
If you feel there is a mutual interest, I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you to learn more about your company, the requirements of the position, and how my qualifications would be a good fit.
Thank you in advance for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
To CEO of Scientific Instrument Distributor, Transitioning To Real Estate
Date
Mr. John Smith
Department Manager
ABC Company
1234 E. Main Street
Any Town, US 55555
Dear Mr. Smith:
I am very interested in joining an organization such as (name the organization). During my online research, I was very excited to learn about the current opening for a (specify position), and feel my qualifications and your requirements are a good match. For your review, I have attached my resume for your consideration.
In my current position of eight years as an Executive Assistant and personal assistant to the CEO of Zeon, Ltd., one of the largest scientific instrument distributors in the nation, I am respected for my ability to handle the demands of this high profile executive, exercising the highest standards of excellence.
My prior position of seven years as Executive Assistant with Global Meds, I reported to my current boss before he accepted a position as CEO. As a result of my strong Executive Suite office administration and business acumen, my boss brought me with him when he joined Zeon. In anticipation of his retirement this spring, he has recommended me to several CEOs who I know for years through extensive business dealings.
As much as I appreciate his recommendations, I have decided to explore independent opportunities. My main reason for this is a need to change industries and have decided to follow my dream of working in commercial real estate. To focus my career goals, I have conducted extensive research and have concluded that I would be really good at overseeing property development projects, both in the U.S. and overseas.
I am a self-directed, articulate bilingual communicator (Spanish) who is very project oriented with a proven ability to interact with business professionals. I feel my experience coordinating domestic and international travel and overseeing general accounting functions is also an asset.
I am confident that I would add value to your organization while providing excellent organizational, communication, and office administration, a strong work ethic, and the ability to work well in a fast paced environment.
If you feel there is a mutual interest, I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you to learn more about your company, the requirements of the position, and how my qualifications would be a good fit.
Thank you in advance for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Executive Assistant – Fashion / Events Cover Letter
Date
Mr. Hiring Manager
ABC Company
1234 E. Main Street
Any Town, US 55555
Dear Mr. Hiring Manager:
I am very interested in joining an organization such as (name the organization). During my online research, I was very excited to learn about the current opening for a (specify position), and feel my qualifications and your requirements are a good match. For your review, I have attached my
I am an executive assistant with 14 years of solid experience supporting C-level executives and high-profile clothing designers throughout retail (national) and fashion apparel (major brands).
My recent position of seven years with Fabulous Threads has been exciting to say the least. I have travelled extensively between the states and Italy to coordinate the details of production and runway shows for new lines that are both chic and eco-centric.
What I have enjoyed most about my position is the opportunity to coordinate the logistics of large-scale events with a minimum of 5,000 participants. Specifically, I really enjoy managing the marketing and public activities because it allows me to use my creativity and people skills in a way that does not get utilized in other areas of my work.
Promoting upcoming fashion shows is very involved, but there is only one major show a year. I would like a position that would allow me the opportunity to coordinate multiple annual events. For this reason, I have decided that a position with an events management company such as Planners is exactly the kind of position I am looking for.
My background has been primarily in the capacity of executive assistant with extensive experience coordinating fashion related events. I do not expect to be given exclusive access to managing all of key events until I have proven myself as a value member of your event coordination team. I can promise you that you are making a wise investment in hiring someone like myself.
I truly have more to offer than you may think, and would very much like to have the opportunity to speak with you in person to discuss how my qualifications would be a perfect match for the requirements of this demanding position.
Thank you in advance for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Attachment: Resume for Executive Assistant – Fashion / Events
Seeking a paralegal position in a financial services firm
Date
Mr. John Smith
Department Manager
ABC Company
1234 E. Main Street
Any Town, US 55555
Dear Mr. Smith:
I am very interested in joining an organization such as (name the organization). During my research, I was excited to learn about the current opening for an administrative assistant, and feel my qualifications and your requirements are a good match. For your review, I have attached my resume for your consideration.
I offer broad based experience in the capacities of administrative assistant and paralegal assistant for small accounting firms and private practice law offices.
Although much of my daily responsibilities are administrative in the areas of client relations, coordinating workflow activities, processing correspondence and scheduling meetings, I am very involved in securing financial statements for banks, and other financial institutions and interfacing with attorneys from the point of due diligence to closings on all business deals.
My prior experience working as a paralegal assistant has developed my skills and familiarity with contracts and proxy statements, tax statements, and court filing procedures. Combined with my advanced computer skills, including most MS Office and WordPerfect applications and ability to supervise a staff, I believe I would be an asset to your organization.
If you feel there is a mutual interest, I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you to learn more about your company, the requirements of the position, and how my qualifications would be a good fit.
Thank you in advance for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Creative / Graphic Design
Date
Mr. John Smith
Department Manager
ABC Company
1234 E. Main Street
Any Town, US 55555
Dear Mr. Smith:
I am very interested in joining an organization such as (name the organization). During my online research, I was very excited to learn about the current opening for a (specify position), and feel my qualifications and your requirements are a good match. For your review, I have attached my resume for your consideration.
I am very excited to now be a permanent resident of Colorado Springs and would like to establish myself in a marketing assistant position, bring extensive experience as a graphic artist and administrative assistant with innovative companies in the SOHO area of New York City. I am happy to be back home where I grew up, but my desire to work within a cutting edge, creative company remains.
What I have to offer is the ability to work in a deadline-driven Mac environment supporting a forward-thinking marketing team. Although my primary work was focused on administrative tasks, I was given the opportunity to assist in the development of marketing collateral that contributed to the successful marketing of products in both print and online campaigns.
I am extremely creative with a lot of great ideas that have been used with great success. I am very proficient in graphic design using high-end software such as QuarkXPress and Adobe Illustrator and website management with a personal interest in photography. So if you are in need of someone who can manage your office and contribute to creative projects with fresh ideas, then I am definitely someone you can consider for the position.
If you do feel there is a mutual interest, I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you to learn more about your company, the requirements of the position, and how my qualifications would be a good fit.
Thank you in advance for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Experience in the Health Care Field
Date
Mr. John Smith
Department Manager
ABC Company
1234 E. Main Street
Any Town, US 55555
Dear Mr. Smith:
I am very interested in joining an organization such as (name the organization). During my research, I was excited to learn about the current opening for a (specify position), and feel my qualifications and your requirements are a good match. For your review, I have attached my resume for your consideration.
I offer several years of administrative experience at the executive level working within corporate offices of the health care field. I am a highly competent professional who is detail oriented with exceptional organization and time management skills.
As the right hand person to senior level administrators, I have proven myself as someone who can be depended upon to ensuring the efficient coordination of daily office functions and important medical research projects.
Moreover, I have maintained a high degree of confidentiality in all matters and ensured full compliance with HIPAA regulations.
Combined with an associates degree in business management, I am confident that I would prove to be a contribution to your medical center.
If you feel there is a mutual interest, I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you to learn more about your company, the requirements of the position, and how my qualifications would be a good fit.
Thank you in advance for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
HR Assistant
Date
Mr. John Smith
Department Manager
ABC Company
1234 E. Main Street
Any Town, US 55555
Dear Mr. Smith:
I am very interested in joining the HR Department of a large organization such as (name of company. During my research, I was drawn to your vacancy announcement for an HR Assistant, and feel my qualifications are a good match. For your review, I have attached my resume for your consideration.
I am currently working part time as an HR Assistant for HR Technologies while pursuing my bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management for College County, expected this coming December. I secured my position with HRT by way of recommendation from my school’s placement center. After volunteering to assist the Dean of Students with diverse administrative activities, he reached out to the placement center to see how he could help me secure a job in human resources offering a flexible schedule and compensation while attending school. I am grateful to have the opportunity to work part time as an HR Assistant, a role I truly enjoy. It is preparing me for my long term goal as an HR Generalist.
In my position as an HR Assistant for HR Technologies, I provide HR administrative support to the VP of Human Resources and his team. Nearly everything that goes through the HR Department crosses my desk on an administrative level – which is a lot!
I manage diverse aspects of the HR function, from preparing W2 Forms for new hires and creating vacancy announcements and job descriptions, to assisting with HRIS projects and coordinating OSHA Safety meetings.
As much as I enjoy my current position and appreciate the opportunity to learn, I would like to work for a company such as (name the organization) with a larger company infrastructure that offers an opportunity to learn more about the HR function. I think now is the best time to explore opportunities so I am ready for more responsibility upon obtaining my degree.
Please refer to my attached resume to see just how much I have done and what I have to bring to an HR Assistant position with your organization.
If you feel there is a mutual interest, I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you to learn more about your company, the requirements of the position, and how my qualifications would be a good fit.
Thank you in advance for your time and consideration. I hope to speak with you soon.
Sincerely,
