Cover Letter Closing Paragraph

The closing paragraph of your cover letter is your last chance to leave a strong impression before the hiring manager moves on. A weak ending can undermine everything you wrote above it, while a confident, specific close can push your application from the "maybe" pile to the interview shortlist.

This guide breaks down exactly what belongs in a cover letter closing paragraph, provides examples you can adapt, and flags the mistakes that cost candidates interviews. If you need broader guidance on how to end a cover letter, start there for a full overview of final-section strategy.

What a Closing Paragraph Needs to Accomplish

Your closing paragraph has three jobs:

1. Reinforce your value. Briefly restate the strongest reason you are a fit for the role. Do not repeat your opening line. Instead, connect your qualifications to a specific company need.
2. Include a call to action. Tell the reader what you want to happen next. Asking for a conversation is standard, but the phrasing matters.
3. Thank the reader. A short, genuine thank-you signals professionalism without sounding desperate.

If you skip any one of these, the paragraph feels incomplete. If you add more, it feels bloated.

The Closing Paragraph Formula

Use this four-sentence structure as a starting point, then adjust for tone and context:

• Sentence 1: Restate your core value proposition tied to the role.
• Sentence 2: Express enthusiasm for the company or team (be specific).
• Sentence 3: Request a conversation and provide contact availability.
• Sentence 4: Thank the reader.

This formula works for most industries and seniority levels. The key is keeping each sentence short and purposeful.

Cover Letter Closing Paragraph Examples

Below are closing paragraphs tailored to different situations. Notice how each one stays under five sentences but still communicates value, enthusiasm, and a clear next step. For more complete letter samples, visit our cover letter examples page.

Entry-Level Candidate

Closing paragraph for an entry-level candidate

Shows eagerness without overpromising.

Subject: Application for the Closing paragraph for an entry-level candidate position

My coursework in data analytics and my summer internship at Redline Marketing gave me hands-on experience with the reporting workflows your team uses daily. I am excited about the opportunity to grow within a company that prioritizes mentorship and continuous learning. I would welcome the chance to discuss how my skills can support your upcoming product launch. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, [Full Name]

Experienced Professional

Closing paragraph for an experienced professional

Confident and specific, with a measurable reference.

Subject: Application for the Closing paragraph for an experienced professional position

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my eight years of project management experience and PMP certification can support your infrastructure expansion. Your team's commitment to on-time delivery aligns with the process improvements I led at Greystone, where I reduced project overruns by 30%. I am available for a conversation at your convenience and can be reached at [phone] or [email]. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, [Full Name]

Career Changer

Closing paragraph for a career changer

Bridges the gap between past experience and new direction.

Subject: Application for the Closing paragraph for a career changer position

While my background is in classroom teaching, the skills I built there, clear communication, stakeholder management, and data-driven decision making, translate directly to the corporate training coordinator role at Vantage Learning. I am eager to bring a fresh perspective to your team. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my experience can add value to your L&D initiatives. Thank you for considering my application. Sincerely, [Full Name]

Management-Level Role

Closing paragraph for a management position

Demonstrates leadership impact with a forward-looking statement.

Subject: Application for the Closing paragraph for a management position position

Leading a 14-person operations team through a company-wide ERP migration taught me that successful change management depends on trust, transparency, and measurable milestones. I am confident those same principles would serve your organization well during this growth phase. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how I can contribute to your strategic goals. Please feel free to contact me at [phone] or [email]. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, [Full Name]

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even strong candidates lose momentum with a poor closing paragraph. Here are the patterns that weaken your finish. For a deeper look at closing strategies, see our guide on how to close a cover letter.

Being Too Passive

Phrases like "I hope to hear from you" or "If you think I might be a fit" signal uncertainty. Replace hope with confidence. Instead of hoping, state that you welcome the opportunity to discuss your qualifications.

Being Too Aggressive

Saying "I will call you on Monday to schedule an interview" can feel presumptuous, especially for roles where you have no prior relationship with the hiring manager. A better approach is to express availability and let the reader initiate.

Being Too Generic

"Thank you for your consideration" on its own is not a closing paragraph. It is a single sentence that tells the reader nothing about why you are the right candidate. Always pair gratitude with a value statement.

Repeating the Opening

If your first paragraph says you are excited to apply for the Marketing Manager role at Apex, your closing should not restate the same sentence. Instead, reference a different angle: a specific project, a team goal, or a metric you bring to the table.

Apologizing or Hedging

Lines like "I know I may not have all the qualifications listed" or "Despite my limited experience" undercut your pitch. If you lack a specific requirement, address it briefly in the body of the letter, not in your closing.

How to Adjust Your Closing for Different Formats

The closing paragraph should adapt slightly depending on how you submit your application:

• Email cover letters. Keep the closing shorter since the entire letter is typically more concise. One or two sentences before "Thank you" is sufficient.
• Uploaded PDF or Word document. You have more space. Use the full four-sentence formula.
• LinkedIn messages or networking introductions. Replace the formal sign-off with a direct request: "Would you be open to a 15-minute call this week?"

For more on structuring your final sentences across different contexts, read our advice on how to conclude a cover letter.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should a cover letter closing paragraph be?

Three to five sentences is the standard range. Your closing paragraph should restate your value, include a call to action, and thank the reader. Anything shorter feels abrupt; anything longer risks repeating points you already made in the body of the letter.

Should I mention salary expectations in the closing paragraph?

Only if the job posting explicitly asks for it. If it does, include a brief range and move on. If the posting does not mention compensation, leave it out entirely. The closing paragraph should focus on your fit for the role and the next step in the process.

Is it appropriate to say I will follow up?

Yes, as long as the tone is professional. A line like "I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further" is appropriate. Avoid setting a specific date for your follow-up call unless the company culture is informal and the posting encourages direct outreach.

What is the best sign-off for a cover letter?

"Sincerely" remains the most widely accepted closing salutation in US job applications. "Best regards" and "Respectfully" are also safe choices. Avoid casual sign-offs like "Cheers" or "Thanks!" unless you are applying to a company with a distinctly informal culture.

Can I use the same closing paragraph for every application?

You should not. The closing paragraph needs to reference the specific role, company, or team you are targeting. A generic closing signals to hiring managers that you are sending mass applications without tailoring your materials. Even small adjustments, such as naming the department or referencing a company initiative, make a noticeable difference. For guidance on structuring the rest of your letter, see our full walkthrough on how to write a cover letter.