cover letter within same company

How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internal Position (With Examples and a Template!)

Applying for an internal position isn’t just a matter of submitting a resume and hoping for the best. It’s about strategically positioning yourself as the perfect candidate for a role within a company that already knows you.

The prospect of new challenges, career growth, and the chance to contribute in different ways can be highly motivating. But with that comes the need to navigate office politics , manage relationships, and ensure that your application stands out.

We’ll explore what makes a cover letter for an internal position different from a traditional cover letter , why it’s crucial to write a good one, and how to do it effectively. We’ll also include examples and a template to help you get started.

Think you need to look outside your current company? One of these open jobs on The Muse might just be the one »

Is a cover letter for an internal position different from a traditional cover letter?

Yes! When you're applying for a job within the same company, you're not starting from scratch. The hiring manager already knows you and has very easy access to a reference check, so your cover letter must reflect proximity. Balancing familiarity with professionalism is key.

Unlike a traditional cover letter, where you introduce yourself and explain your interest in the company, a cover letter for an internal position should focus on your achievements , your understanding of the company culture, and your vision for how you can contribute to this new role.

“The process might be less formal but is often more competitive because you’re up against colleagues,” says Kenan Acieklly, CEO of Workhy , who has nearly a decade of experience in HR and business management. “Decisions may weigh heavily on your internal reputation, past performance, and ability to articulate your future potential within the company.”

Why should I write a cover letter for an internal position?

Writing a cover letter for an internal position is crucial for several reasons. You might think that since you're already an employee, a cover letter is just a formality. However, skipping it or writing a generic one could really hurt your chances.

This cover letter should highlight why you’re the best candidate for this different role, even if your managers and colleagues already know your work ethic and contributions. You’re making the case that you're not just a good employee, but the right person for this specific job.

Writing a cover letter underscores your seriousness about the role. “It’s an opportunity to articulate your vision and demonstrate continued commitment to the company’s success,” Acikelli says. And it serves many important functions:

• It reaffirms your interest in the company: Even though you already work there, this shows that you're still committed to the company's mission and values.
• It highlights your achievements: This is your chance to remind the hiring manager of your successes within the company—things they might not remember or know about if they weren’t directly supervising you.
• It shows your initiative: Applying internally demonstrates that you’re eager to grow and take on new challenges. A well-crafted cover letter underlines your proactive approach to your career.
• It provides a tailored narrative: This letter allows you to connect your current role with the new one, explaining how your skills, experience, and knowledge of the company make you the ideal candidate.

How to apply for an internal role

Let's go over some of the most common questions about applying for an internal position:

Is it OK to apply for an internal position?

Yes, it is absolutely OK to apply for an internal position. Companies generally encourage internal mobility as it allows them to retain talent and leverage existing employees’ skills and institutional knowledge. Applying for an internal position shows that you are committed to the company and interested in furthering your career within the organization.

How to express interest in an internal position?

It's important to be both professional and enthusiastic. Start by scheduling a meeting with your current supervisor to discuss your career goals and explain why you're interested in the new role. During the conversation, emphasize your desire to continue growing within the company and explain how the new position aligns with your career aspirations. Make sure to follow any formal application procedures, such as submitting an updated resume and a strong cover letter.

How do you tell your boss you are applying for an internal position?

Schedule a private meeting with your boss to discuss your plans. Be upfront about your intentions, explaining why you’re interested in the new role and how it aligns with your long-term career goals . Emphasize that this move isn’t a reflection of dissatisfaction with your current position, but rather a desire to grow and take on new challenges within the company. It’s important to assure your boss that you remain committed to your current responsibilities and that you will help ensure a smooth transition if you’re selected for the new role.

Do I need a CV for an internal job?

Yes, you typically need a curriculum vitae (CV) or resume when applying for an internal job. While the hiring managers might already know you, a CV provides a formal document that highlights your relevant experience, skills, and accomplishments. It also helps you present your qualifications in a structured way that aligns with the job requirements. Make sure to tailor your CV to the specific role you’re applying for, emphasizing the experience and achievements that are most relevant to the new position.

How do you message a hiring manager for an internal position?

Keep the tone professional and concise. Start by introducing yourself and expressing your interest in the position. Mention that you are currently working in the company and explain why you believe you are a good fit for the role. Offer to provide more information or discuss your qualifications in detail at their convenience. Close the message by thanking them for considering your application and expressing your enthusiasm for the opportunity.

“Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position that was recently posted. I have been with [Company Name] for [X years] as [Your Current Position], and I believe that my experience and skills align well with the requirements of this role. I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to the team in this new capacity. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of working together.

Best regards, [Your Name]”

How to write a cover letter for an internal position (examples included!)

Now that you already know the basics of how to apply for a role within your current company, let's focus on how to write an impressive cover letter for an internal position.

Think of it as a way to remind decision-makers why you're the right person for the job—because of your qualifications, your understanding of the company’s goals, and how you can contribute to its success in a new capacity. Your cover letter for an internal position should convey your enthusiasm for the position, reflect on what you've achieved so far, and outline how you plan to make an even bigger impact if given the opportunity.

Follow this structure to make an impressive cover letter for an internal position:

1. Start with a strong opening

Begin by expressing your excitement about the new role and your commitment to the company. Mention how long you’ve been with the company and briefly describe your current position.

“I am thrilled to apply for the [Job Title] position. Having been with [Company Name] for [X years], I have developed a deep understanding of our operations and have consistently strived to contribute to our success in meaningful ways.”

2. Highlight your accomplishments

This is where you shine a light on what you've achieved in your current role. “Start with your accomplishments in your current role, then connect those successes to the value you’ll bring to the new position,” Acikelli says.

“In my current role as [Your Current Job Title], I successfully led [Project Name], which resulted in [specific achievement, e.g., a 20% increase in sales]. This experience has given me invaluable insights that I am eager to apply in the [New Job Title] role.”

3. Showcase your knowledge of the company

Use your insider knowledge to your advantage. “Mention any cross-departmental collaborations to show your versatility and readiness for broader responsibilities,” Acikelli says. Discuss how your understanding of the company’s culture, goals, and challenges makes you a good fit for the new role.

“Having worked closely with [Department/Team], I am well-versed in the challenges we face in [specific area]. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to contribute to [specific initiative or project related to the new role], as I believe my experience and knowledge could greatly benefit our efforts.”

4. Align your skills with the new role

Clearly explain how your skills and experience align with the requirements of the new position. Be specific about what you bring to the table that will help you succeed in this role.

“My experience in [specific skill or area] has equipped me with the [specific abilities] needed to excel in the [New Job Title] role. I am confident that my background in [relevant experience] will allow me to [specific contribution].”

5. Express your commitment to growth

Demonstrate that you're eager to learn and grow within the company. Mention any relevant training or development you’ve pursued and how you plan to continue growing in the new role.

“I am committed to continuous professional development, as evidenced by my completion of [relevant training or certification]. I am eager to further develop my skills in [specific area] and contribute to [Company Name] in new and impactful ways.”

Cover letter template for internal position

Use the following cover letter template for internal position as a guide. This structure will help you effectively communicate your enthusiasm for the position while leveraging your internal experience to stand out as the ideal candidate.

[Your Name] [Your Current Job Title] [Company Name] [Email Address] [Phone Number] [Date]

[Hiring Manager’s Name] [Hiring Manager’s Job Title] [Company Name]

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position that recently opened up in [Department Name]. Having been with [Company Name] for [X years], I have gained a deep appreciation for our company’s mission and values, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to [specific department or project related to the new role] in this new capacity.

In my current role as [Your Current Job Title], I have had the privilege of [mention your key achievements]. This experience deepened my understanding of [specific area or department] and inspired me to seek new challenges within [Company Name]. I am particularly drawn to the [Job Title] position because [specific reason related to the new role].

One of the aspects of [Company Name] that I value most is our commitment to [specific company value or mission], and I am eager to contribute to [specific project or initiative related to the new role] in a more direct way. I believe that my background in [relevant experience or skill] aligns perfectly with the needs of the [Job Title] position, and I am confident in my ability to [specific contribution or goal].

I am also committed to continuous growth and development, as evidenced by [mention any relevant training or certifications]. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my skills and experience to the [Job Title] role, and I look forward to the possibility of continuing to grow with [Company Name].

Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to further discuss how I can contribute to the success of [Company Name] in this new role.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Bottom line

By carefully crafting your cover letter, you can position yourself as the ideal candidate for the role. Remember, your cover letter for an internal position is your chance to highlight your achievements, showcase your understanding of the company, and demonstrate your commitment to growth. With the right approach, you can successfully transition into a new role within the same company, taking your career to the next level. Good luck!

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Cover Letter for Internal Position or Promotion

Whether you’re seeking a promotion or just a lateral transfer, writing a cover letter for an internal position isn’t easy. With our cover letter examples and expert tips, you’ll learn how to write an internal cover letter that shows management you’re the ideal person for the job.

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Internal cover letter example

Cover letter for promotion example, how to write a cover letter for an internal position.

If you’re looking to land a new job within your current company — whether that’s a promotion or a lateral transfer — you may have to write a cover letter for an internal position to formally apply for the role.

Skip to 2:40 in the video below to see our resident career expert Eva explain how to write an effective internal cover letter:

Now that you know the basics, keep reading to find our more about how to write a stellar internal cover letter so you can reel in that promotion you’ve been angling for.

If you’re applying for a new job in your company, you’ll probably also need a resume for an internal position .

Here’s an example of a strong cover letter for an internal position:

Cover letter for internal position example (text version)

June 7, 2023

Jane Lasker Senior Manager Peabody Supplies Co. [email protected]

Dear Ms. Lasker,

As a loyal employee of Peabody, I’m excited to formally apply for the Digital Outreach Coordinator position in the Marketing Department. Since starting as a Sales Representative at Peabody two years ago, I’ve quickly mastered the requisite skills for the role, and helped our department exceed annual sales goals. While I’m happy with my current position, working as a Digital Outreach Coordinator is more in line with my long-term career goals, and I feel that I would be an immediate asset to the team.

During my career at Peabody as a Sales Representative, I’ve demonstrated my ability to learn quickly and surpass expectations. I’ve developed an excellent talent for sales, honed my communication skills working closely with a diverse range of customers, and subsequently helped my department generate a 6% increase in profits this quarter.

Additionally, this year I collaborated extensively with the Marketing Department to roll out a new line of kitchen products, giving me relevant hands-on experience with day-to-day marketing operations.

I’ve read the requirements for the Digital Outreach Coordinator position thoroughly. Although I may have less experience than other candidates, I’m confident that the skills I’ve developed during my time at Peabody, as well as my passion for the work being done here, make me an ideal fit for the role.

I appreciate your time and consideration, and look forward to discussing this opportunity with you at your convenience. My supervisor is also happy to meet with you to elaborate on my performance in the Sales Department, and attest to my qualifications. Please let me know if there is any other information I can provide, and I’d be happy to send it your way.

Kevin Eskola

This sample cover letter for an internal position is effective because it’s concise, positive, and direct.

Kevin expresses gratitude for his current job, highlights his excellent performance, and then addresses how the new job plays into his career goals.

His transfer cover letter also shows management that he’s loyal, and goal-oriented enough to advocate for himself — both attributes of a strong employee.

Our free-to-use cover letter builder can make you a cover letter in as little as 5 minutes. Just pick the template you want, and our software will format everything for you.

Although similar to a general cover letter for an internal position, a promotion cover letter differs in two key ways.

First, a cover letter for a promotion specifically emphasizes your higher-level experience . For instance, if you’re looking to land a managerial role, provide examples of management experience you’ve acquired as an employee. If you’re aiming for a senior-level title, illustrate why you deserve it in your cover letter.

It also must prove you’re prepared to handle more responsibilities in the company.

If you’re only transferring positions, you want to showcase your transferable skills and willingness to learn new things. If you’re going for a promotion, you need to emphasize your readiness for the role, because companies don’t give out better titles and/or money without justification.

Here’s an example cover letter for an internal promotion:

Cover letter for internal promotion example (text version)

As a loyal employee of Peabody, I’m excited to formally apply for the Sales Manager position in the Marketing Department. Since starting as a Sales Representative at Peabody two years ago, I’ve quickly mastered the requisite skills for the role, and helped our department exceed annual sales goals.

During my career at Peabody as a Sales Representative, I’ve demonstrated my ability to learn quickly and surpass expectations. I’ve developed excellent sales skills, honed my interpersonal abilities, and subsequently helped my department generate a 6% increase in profits this quarter. Additionally, this year has given me the opportunity to sharpen my leadership skills, having successfully onboarded 4 new employees, and assumed management over a small direct sales team.

I’ve read the requirements for the Sales Management position thoroughly, and I’m confident that the skills I’ve gained in my time at Peabody, as well as my passion for the work being done here, make me an ideal fit.

I appreciate your consideration and look forward to discussing this opportunity for promotion with you at your convenience. My supervisor is also happy to meet with you to elaborate on my performance in the Sales Department, and will attest to my qualifications. Please let me know if there is any other information I can provide that will help you reach your final decision.

What makes Kevin’s cover letter for promotion stand out is the quick but convincing way he markets his strengths while asserting his qualifications for the target position.

Note that in the cover letter introduction, he immediately emphasizes his gratitude for the opportunities he’s been given, and quickly addresses his overall performance on the job. Then, Kevin details specific successes, skills, and relevant management experience he’s developed.

These crucial details demonstrate to management that he has the experience necessary to keep up with the demands a promotion would bring, and that he has the drive to excel in the new position.

How to write a cover letter

Dread writing cover letters? Read our guide to learn how to write a great cover letter that convinces hiring managers you’re the ideal person for the job.

Now that you’ve seen a few samples, let’s dive into what makes a compelling internal cover letter. Here’s a short video that explains the basics:

@resumegenius Are you interested in an open position at your current company? 💼 Make sure to apply the right way by following these tips and steps. 🔸 For more tips on how to apply for an internal position and a cover letter example, check out our article and in-depth YouTube video here: resumegeniusDOTme/application-for-internal-position #careeradvice #jobsearchtips #jobsearching #internalposition #interviewtips #coverletter ♬ original sound – Resume Genius | Career Advice

To write your own, follow these five steps and show your employer you’re qualified for that role change.

1. Include all the right internal cover letter elements

If you’re going through the formality of writing a cover letter, it’s important to make sure you get the structure and formatting down to give a professional impression.

Here’s what you need on the page:

Submitting a flawless cover letter will impress your employer and show them that you’re taking the opportunity seriously.

Using a cover letter template can take away the stress of trying to format your cover letter properly and allow you to spend your time and energy on what matters most – the content.

2. Create a convincing narrative

Your managers are already familiar with you, so skip the introductions and formalities expected in a general cover letter .

Instead, use your internal cover letter as an opportunity to craft a narrative about your experience at the company, your commitment to your job, and how your target position fits into your long-term career goals.

Companies want to keep and reward their existing talent. Show management that not only is hiring you easier, but also that you’d excel in the new position and are excited to grow along with the company.

Starting a cover letter the right way will catch management’s attention, and get them to start an honest conversation with you about your potential transfer or promotion.

3. Tie in your previous experience

Your goal is to convince an employer that you have the right qualifications to not only get the job done, but also exceed expectations.

To show employers your full value, showcase specific successes you’ve contributed to while on the job, the soft skills and hard skills you’ve learned, and how you’ve adapted over time.

This can mean slightly different things depending on whether you’re writing a cover letter for an internal job transfer, or an internal promotion cover letter.

Highlight experience that shows that you’re competent, reliable, and have adept leadership skills . Your goal is to convince management that you’re the ideal candidate, and that the experience you’ve gained at your current position gives you the resources to thrive in a role with more responsibility.

Showcase any experience or technical skills you have that are relevant to the new position — especially any instances where you’ve collaborated or worked with your target department . Additionally, your experience should demonstrate that you’re adaptable, driven, and passionate about the work you’d be doing in the position you want to be transferred to.

Additionally, note any unique skills required of people in your desired position, and emphasize your competency in those areas.

4. Be specific

Management is already familiar with the work being done at the company. To impress them, be specific about your accomplishments.

To communicate your experience to management effectively, highlight your key relevant achievements, and back them up with hard numbers. Your goal is to quantify the contributions you’ve made to the company and its overall success.

Here’s how our sample applicant showcases their role in boosting sales:

Quantifying your achievements is one of the best ways to demonstrate your qualifications in a digestible, interesting way, while also highlighting the role you played in the success of a given task.

Quantifying your accomplishments isn’t just important when writing your cover letter — it’s also the key to writing an outstanding resume. A good achievement-oriented resume can catch the hiring manager’s attention, and break down your skills in a more impactful way.

5. Show your gratitude

The last thing you want to do is give management the impression you’re only asking for a promotion or transfer because you want more money.

When writing a cover letter for an internal position, you must make it clear that — while you feel you’re suited to the new position — you’re also grateful for the opportunities you’ve had in your current role.

This is a great opportunity to highlight how you’ve grown since starting at the company. Showcase the hard skills you’ve picked up along the way, and elaborate on how your current job has complemented your long-term career goals.

Here’s an example:

I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to lead new inter-departmental projects in my current role. As a result, I’ve grown tremendously as a marketer. The skills I’ve acquired align with the requirements for the Marketing Manager role and make me a qualified candidate. My dedication and well-rounded experience make me a perfect fit for this role, and I’m excited to continue contributing to the company’s continued success.

Ultimately, your goal should be to show management that not only are you qualified for the new role or promotion, but you’re a loyal employee looking for opportunities to grow with the company.

However, avoid over-emphasizing your gratitude. You want to show management that you’re dedicated to the company, but still confident about your worth and qualifications.

While the two are often confused, a cover letter for an internal position differs from a letter of interest . A cover letter is prepared for a publicly advertised job opening. A letter of interest is a letter that you write for a job that isn’t being advertised or may not even exist right now.

Ida Pettersson

Career Coach and Resume Expert

Committed to empowering job seekers of all experience levels to take the next step in their careers, Ida helps professionals navigate the job hunt from start to finish. After graduating from New College of Florida with a B.A. in Philosophy and Chinese Language and Culture, Ida moved to Hong Kong to begin her own career journey and finally settled in Taiwan. Her insights on resume writing, interview strategies, and career development have been featured on websites such as LawCareers.net, Digital Marketer, and SheCanCode.

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Cover Letter for Internal Position

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Internal Position cover letter examples

Are you hoping to secure a new position within your existing company?

An internal move can be the perfect solution if you love the company but you want to progress in your career or try your hand at a different department.

Either way, you need to submit a persuasive application, and we’ve created the following guide, complete with several internal position cover letter examples to help you do just that.

CV templates 

Internal Position cover letter example 1

Build your CV now 

Internal Position cover letter example 2

Internal Position cover letter example 3

The example cover letters here should give you a good general idea on how your Internal Position cover letter should be formatted and written.

The rest of this guide gives more specific guidance on how to create your own cover letter in this format, and even includes some templates you can copy and paste.

How to write an Internal Position cover letter

Here’s how you can write your own eye-catching cover letter, broken down into simple steps.

Write your cover letter in the body of an email/message

When writing your Internal Position cover letter, it’s best to type the content into the body of your email (or the job site messaging system) and not to attach the cover letter as a separate document.

This ensures that your cover letter gets seen as soon as a recruiter or employer opens your message.

If you attach the cover letter as a document, you’re making the reader go through an unnecessary step of opening the document before reading it.

If it’s in the body of the message itself, it will be seen instantly, which hugely increases the chances of it being read.

Start with a friendly greeting

Start you cover letter with a greeting that is professional but friendly.

This will build rapport with the recruiter whilst showing your professionalism.

• Hi, hope you’re well
• Hi [insert recruiter name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Avoid overly formal greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very traditional companies.

How to find the contact’s name?

Addressing the recruitment contact by name is an excellent way to start building a strong relationship. If it is not listed in the job advert, try these methods to find it.

• Check out the company website and look at their  About page. If you see a hiring manager, HR person or internal recruiter, use their name. You could also try to figure out who would be your manager in the role and use their name.
• Head to LinkedIn , search for the company and scan through the list of employees. Most professionals are on LinkedIn these days, so this is a good bet.

Identify the role you are applying for

Once you have opened the cover letter with a warm greeting, you need to explain which role you are interested in.

Sometimes a recruitment consultant could be managing over 10 vacancies, so it’s crucial to pinpoint exactly which one you are interested in.

Highlight the department/area if possible and look for any reference numbers you can quote.

These are some examples you can add..

• I am interested in applying for the role of *Internal Position* with your company.
• I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 40f57393)
• I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
• I saw your advert for an IT project manager on Reed and would like to apply for the role.

See also: CV examples – how to write a CV – CV profiles

Highlight your suitability

The sole objective of your cover letter is to motivate recruiters into to opening your CV. And you achieve this by quickly explaining your suitability to the roles you are applying for.

Take a look at the job descriptions you are applying to, and make note of the most important skills and qualifications being asked for.

Then, when crafting your cover letter, make your suitability the central focus.

Explain why you are the best qualified candidate, and why you are so well suited to carry out the job.

This will give recruiters all the encouragement they need to open your CV and consider you for the job.

Keep it short and sharp

When sending a job application to a recruiter or hiring manager, it is important to remember that they will normally be very busy and pushed for time.

Therefore, you need to get you message across to them quickly (in a matter of seconds ideally). So, keep your cover letter short and to-the-point. A long waffling cover letter will overwhelm recruiters when they are running through hundreds of emails in there inbox, but a concise one will get their attention.

So, keep your cover letter to just a few sentences long, and save the extensive detail for your CV.

Sign off professionally

To round of your CV, you should sign off with a professional signature.

This will give your cover letter a slick appearance and also give the recruiter all of the necessary contact information they need to get in touch with you.

The information to add should include:

• A friendly sign off – e.g. “Kindest regards”
• Your full name
• Phone number (one you can answer quickly)
• Email address
• Profession title
• Professional social network –  e.g. LinkedIn

Here is an example signature;

Warm regards,

Jill North IT Project Manager 078837437373 [email protected] LinkedIn

Quick tip: To save yourself from having to write your signature every time you send a job application, you can save it within your email drafts, or on a separate documents that you could copy in.

What to include in your Internal Position cover letter

Your Internal Position cover letter will be unique to your situation, but there are certain content guidelines you should stick to for best results.

To attract and entice recruiters, stick with the following key subjects in your cover letter – adapting them to fit your profession and target jobs.

• Your professional experience – Employers will be keen to know if your experience is suitable for the job you are applying to, so provide a good summary of it in your cover letter.
• Your qualifications and education – Highlight your most relevant and high-level of qualification, especially if they are essential to the job.
• The positive impact you have made – Employers love to hear about the benefits you can bring to them, so shout about anything impressive you have done, such as saving money or improving processes.
• Your reasons for leaving – Use a few words of your cover letter to explain why you are leaving your current job and ensure you avoid any negative reasons.
• Your availability – Let recruiters know when you can start a new job . Are you immediately available, or do you have a month notice period?

Internal Position cover letter templates

Copy and paste these Internal Position cover letter templates to get a head start on your own.

I hope you’re well.

I am delighted to submit my application for the open position of Finance Manager. With 7 years of experience overseeing the finance strategy development as Assistant Finance Manager, combined with my recent master’s in business administration, I am confident in my ability to excel in this elevated role.

Throughout my tenure at CFT Construction, I have successfully led the financial planning and analysis for our residential development unit, demonstrating expertise in advanced financial modelling and budgeting. My implementation of a streamlined financial reporting system in 2021 improved accuracy by 20%, while a new budgeting process reduced variance by 15% within the first year. I effectively guided the multinational management team through their EOY financial analysis as well as spearheading new training initiatives which excellent results, which I would continue in this more senior role.

I am deeply committed to ensuring the growth and sustainability of the company and believe that my specialised operational knowledge would make me a great asset in this role. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

All the best,

Jordan Teller ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

I am thrilled to apply for the position of Executive Secretary. With my 15+ years of service as an Administrative Secretary within the company and my NVQ Level 4 diploma in Business and Administration, I am confident that I can continue providing excellent secretarial support in this new role.

Having provided unwavering support to management professionals in both the healthcare and marketing industries during my career, I possess a diverse skill set, including project management, diary coordination, and expert transcription and proofreading abilities. Within Lead Marketing, I have contributed significantly, streamlining client follow-up systems, resulting in a remarkable 20% improvement in response time. Additionally, my implementation of an expense tracking system for the senior management team led to a remarkable 38% reduction in overspending.

As a dedicated and detail-oriented professional, I am eager to further contribute to the success of Lead Marketing in the capacity of Executive Secretary. I would love to discuss my vision for this role further in an interview when you have availability.

Thomas Stanley ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

I am excited to submit my application for the new role of Senior Fashion Buyer at our company, where I believe my proven track record, diverse skill set, and passion for fashion will make a significant impact.

With over 16 years of experience as a Fashion Buyer in the purchasing team, I have garnered extensive expertise in conducting market research, analysing sales trends, and sourcing products from vendors across Europe and the USA. My ability to curate merchandise assortments that align with the latest fashion trends and consumer preferences has consistently driven sales and profitability, as exemplified by the 15% sales increase and 12% reduction in online markdowns achieved through data-driven product selection. Additionally, my proficiency in supplier management and negotiation has fostered strong working relationships which has been recognised by my training contract with the customer service team.

I am eager to further discuss my accomplishments and strategic vision for Marks & Spencer’s as a Senior Fashion Buyer. I am available for interview at any time.

Sunni Carter ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Writing an impressive cover letter is a crucial step in landing that Internal Position, so taking the time to perfect it is well worth while.

By following the tips and examples above you will be able to create an eye-catching cover letter that will wow recruiters and ensure your CV gets read – leading to more job interviews for you.

Good luck with your job search!

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Cover Letter for Internal Position or Promotion Examples

You come first, leave last. You put in the effort, the hours, the sweat. You’re a big fish in a small pond. Let’s make a splash.

Advancing within your current company not only demonstrates your loyalty but also your ambition to grow alongside the organization.

Crafting a thoughtful cover letter for an internal position allows you to showcase your achievements and readiness for new challenges. This guide will help you position yourself as the ideal candidate for that next step.

In this guide:

• Two cover letter examples: a sample cover letter for internal position, and a cover letter for promotion.
• How to not trip up on the basics: the cover letter format.
• A quick and ready template to start from in minutes.

Save hours of work and get a cover letter like this.  Pick a template, fill it in. Quick and easy. Choose from  18+ cover letter templates and download your cover letter now.

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Looking for different cover letter examples and guides? See:

• Cover Letter for Internship Position Examples
• Cover Letter with No Experience Examples
• Customer Service Cover Letter Examples
• Data Analyst Cover Letter Examples
• Digital Marketing Cover Letter Examples
• Executive Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• General Cover Letter Examples
• Librarian Cover Letter Examples
• LPN Cover Letter Examples
• Manager Cover Letter Examples

After analyzing data from over 500,000 documents generated in our product, we found that*:

-  The most often chosen cover letter templates among our users are Cascade, Cubic, Primo, and Classic. -  Each user typically creates an average of 2.36 documents in our document builder. - Administrative assistans, customer service representatives, registered nurses and servers are professions for which our users most likely create cover letters.    * The data comes from the last 12 months (August 2023-August 2024)

Depending on whether you’re applying to a new internal position, or you’re asking for a promotion, you must adapt your approach. See how these two examples differ.

1. Cover Letter for Internal Position Examples

Our sample cover letter for internal position applications comes from Maria, who in her job as a warehouse manager revolutionized her site and made huge profitability gains, and is now looking to progress to an operations manager position.

Let’s see how she spins her yarn to display just how much she has done for the company.

#1: Cover Letter for Internal Position Example

Maria C. Dixon

Warehouse Manager

3016 Fulton Street

New Martinsville, WV 26155

304-390-6463

[email protected]

New Martinsville, Feb 25, 2020

Richard Hawkes

HW Operations

7 Industrial Road

Austin, TX 73301

Dear Richard,

I would like to implore you to consider me for the position of Operations Manager you have advertised externally. I have been with HW for 3+ years now as a warehouse manager, and in this time, achieved huge profitability gains each consecutive year.

I believe I have what it takes to perform as an Operations Manager for HW. As a Warehouse Manager at New Martinsville, I turned around the site which was losing $140k p.a. into one that closed the last year with $280k profit. Additionally, we closed this January with a $35k profit, our record month since the creation of the warehouse. I did this by rearranging the warehouse setup into thematic zones that have items that are most often bought together close to each other. This allowed us to reduce the average daily distance walked by a picker from 7.6 miles to just 4.3 (making employees happier, too!), and reduce average parcel completion time from 14.2 to just 8.1 minutes. These improvements allowed us to not have to use seasonal part-time workers, and even sustain record profits with just 31 employees, instead of 37 full-time and 20 seasonal workers.

I believe that the aptitude and effort I demonstrated, especially the savings increases and costs reductions I have made in my warehouse, could be scaled to the wider company, and I believe it to be necessary, at a time when 25% of our locations are operating under the red line. 

When could we meet to tell you about how we could roll-out these improvements to even our most remote locations in record time?

Best Regards,

What if you’re after a promotion that hasn’t been advertised as an open position? We got you.

Our cover letter for promotion comes from Alejandro, a junior developer in a software house, looking to progress to a normal developer position with more pay and perks.

Example #2: Cover Letter for Promotion

Alejandro S. White

4917 Yorkshire Circle

Seattle, WA 98101

423-512-2311

[email protected]

linkedin.com/alejwhitendro

github.com/alejo99

Seattle, Jan 9, 2020

Jane Employer

Head of Development

Easy Software

1 Tech Avenue

I am writing to you to update you on my progress and contribution as a junior developer in the past 12 months I have been at Easy Software, and to implore you to consider promoting me to a developer position.

As a junior developer, my responsibilities revolve around supporting the senior members of the Dev Team—being delegated the easier, partial tasks, testing, debugging, brainstorming, as well as working on software documentation, internal and external. In the past 12 months, I have been the most effective debugger out of our 6 junior developers, fixing 1228 bugs across 21 applications. During brainstorming sessions, I often contribute to the discussion with senior devs with meaningful ideas, such as the addition of the public tracking functionality to the Seattle Transport Authority project, which reinvigorated public transport use in Seattle, and increased it by 5% in the first month, and another 12% in the second since implementation. Very often, while testing, I am able to independently fix some of the more serious issues that occur, whereas most of my colleagues refer them to the senior devs. I believe I have shown enough maturity, drive, and skill to make the move to a full developer position. 

I am currently making a bigger-than-junior impact in my junior developer position. I am a firm believer that in a developer position, I will be able to make an even bigger impact, and allow Easy Software to grow and produce even more interesting and innovative products.

When could we meet for me to tell you about how I fixed the CoffeeMate bug that had the whole team baffled for 2 days?

Kind Regards,

Haven't found what you're looking for? Check all our good cover letter examples.

2. How to Make Your Cover Letter For Promotion Blow Them Away

1. format your cover letter for internal position neatly.

They know you. They think they do. They know you as much as you can get to know someone during idle chat at lunch, after 2 drinks too many at the sushi spot during the Christmas Party. That’s a great place to start. Don’t mess it up by busting out the Comic Sans like it’s 2002.

Here are the rules to ace the cover letter format :

• Align text to the left without justification. 
• Use 1-inch margins on all sides.
• Your cover letter font should be the same as your resume font —use a classic like Bell MT, Arial or Garamond.
• Use 1.15 line spacing. Drop a line between each section, and between paragraphs.
• The best length for your cover letter is one page.

So, what to include in your cover letter for internal positions?

2. Make a Header With Your Contact Information

This may be a formality, but do not omit anything. Make sure the header matches your resume header , if you are sending a resume that is. The rest shouldn’t be a problem, find out who’s going to be dealing with the application and put down their details.

Cover Letter For Internal Position: Header 

[ Your Full Name]

[ Your Job Title ] (Optional)

[ Address ]

[ Phone Number ]

[ Email Address ]

[ LinkedIn Profile ] (Optional)

[ City and Date ]

[ Hiring Manager’s Full Name ]

[ Hiring Manager’s Position ]

[ Company Name ]

[ Company Street Address ]

[ City and Zip Code ]

Expert Hint: Remember, whatever you do: Do not be smarter than your boss .

Double your impact with a matching resume and cover letter combo. Use our cover letter generator and make your application documents pop out.

CREATE YOUR COVER LETTER NOW

Want to try a different look? There's 21 more. A single click will give your document a total makeover. Pick a cover letter template here .

3. Introduce The Position You’re Applying For

Get right to business. Address your cover letter by first name. Start off your cover letter by identifying the position you are seeking, and justify it with a relevant factor of your performance in your current role. 

Fill these [blanks]:

Cover Letter For Internal Position: Introduction

Dear  [Hiring manager’s Name] ,

When I heard of the new  [target position name]  position being created, I immediately saw the parallels from my current position that make me the right fit. Having worked the last  [number of years]+   years as a  [previous position title] , I have spent a lot of time honing  [a parallel skill or responsibility]   skills, resulting in  [metric/improvement/achievement] , and leading me to believe I am ready to progress to this position with more responsibility.

Expert Hint: Do not be callous, even if the hiring manager is your best buddy. Do not write that ‘they have to look no further’, or that ‘you decided to save them money on recruitment’. Always treat as if a stranger will read it, because they very well might. Worse, someone you know might read it, you might not get the position, and it will sting. Explain how you understand the company culture and will be a smoother transition to promote you than someone from the outside, but do not big yourself up needlessly.

4. Make a Case For Why They Should Promote You

Take a piece of paper and split it into two columns. On the left, write out your every responsibility, duty, the things you do at work. Even if you did them once. Think, “If I was trying to tell someone how good I am at it, what would I say?”. Think numbers, achievements from your resume .

Fill that page. When you’re done, walk away, come back in a few hours, and write down the things you’ve suddenly remembered. Now, take the description of the new position, of its duties and responsibilities, and highlight the things that match with your list. 

Here are the components of your promotion cover letter’s second paragraph. Remember to back it up with the evidence. Bonus points if you can compare yourself to the ‘company average’ or even better—your past self. They may not know about your improvement, so let them know. 

Start with this:

Cover Letter for Internal Position Sample: Second Paragraph

In my  [X]+   years as a  [your position name] , I have excelled at  [matching responsibility/duty 1] , on occasion even managing to  [achievement/metric 1]   for our company. While  [matching responsibility/duty 2] , I have been able to  [achievement/metric 2] , contributing to  [a company metric, perhaps the company made record profits that year] . While at the start of my spell with  [company name]  I have only been able to  [underperforming metric 1] , however, after  [remedial steps/training you took]   I am proud to say that I have  [talk about your improvement and what it means for the company] . I am keen to keep developing further at maximum pace, and this opportunity is the right move for both I and  [company name]  to grow.

Expert Hint: We as humans are prone to believing people are watching and judging us all the time. Nothing could be further from the truth. Before you put yourself in the spotlight, make sure there is nothing that will ruin your chances accidentally, on social media for example.

5. Make The Final Interview

Companies always want to grow. They want to make more. However, companies cannot grow if the people don’t grow—or the number of them. Surely, it is better to have the more experienced with the company culture rising, instead of keeping them down and plugging strangers in higher up. 

The costs of training a new person are higher, their adaptation time is longer—it is not certain that they will ever fit into the company culture. These are all valid arguments, but not to make in this form. Do not ever try to uplift yourself by putting down other candidates. 

Explain simply how promoting you would be more cost-effective, have a higher chance of success—not how hiring your competitors would be disastrous.

Fill in the [blanks]:

Cover Letter for Internal Position Sample: Third Paragraph

The culture of  [company name]   is something I am intertwined in. I am asking you to allow me to grow, which I will return in kind. It is more beneficial to the smooth running of the company to allow the people with the know-how and understanding of the business to rise and take more responsibility. I understand the business, how it operates and its goals. The company is aiming to  [describe the goals here] , but the company cannot grow if the people do not grow.

6. Close the Deal

Normally at ResumeLab, here’s where we advise people to ask for the interview. However, unless the position is in another division, country, etc., you can wager going for a ‘I’m looking forward to’. Usually, this can be seen as arrogant or even callous, but you ought not to worry.

A lot of people use that expression freely in their applications, and here it’s valid, and less-committing than usual—you can simply say you look forward to catching up with them about it, which could mean an interview, or could mean catching them in a hall. 

Cover Letter for Internal Position Sample: Sign Off & Call to Action

I’ll look forward to catching up with you about this opportunity. I am eager to tell you more about how  [something you did]   and managed to  [achievement] .

[Digital copy of your handwritten signature]

[Your Full Name]

[Phone Number]

[Email Address]

With ResumeLab’s resume builder you’ll write your resume in a flash. Get specific content to boost your chances of getting the job. Add job descriptions, bullet points, and skills. Improve your resume in our resume builder now .

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Nail it all with a splash of color, choose a clean font, highlight your skills in just a few clicks. You’re the perfect candidate and we’ll prove it. Just pick one of 21 resume templates and get started now .

As you write a cover letter for internal positions and promotions, remember to:

• Get the formatting and header absolutely right—or it looks foolish.
• State what position you’re applying to, and introduce yourself with a relevant achievement from your resume in this capacity, or parallel role.
• In the second paragraph, draw on your experience in your position, and how much, and how well you do the things that your new job focuses on.
• Describe your drive, passion, and commitment in the third paragraph.
• Request an interview/call and sign formally. 

Do you have any more questions about writing a cover letter for internal positions? Did you find our cover letter for internal promotion example helpful? Leave us a comment, I’ll be more than happy to hear from you!

About ResumeLab’s Editorial Process

At ResumeLab, quality is at the crux of our values, supporting our commitment to delivering top-notch career resources. The editorial team of career experts carefully reviews every article in accordance with editorial guidelines , ensuring the high quality and reliability of our content. We actively conduct original research, shedding light on the job market's intricacies and earning recognition from numerous influential news outlets . Our dedication to delivering expert career advice attracts millions of readers to our blog each year.

Dave is a career expert delivering a wide range of well-researched advice regarding the job hunting and application process. At ResumeLab, his data-driven resume and cover letter guides help readers capitalize on their potential.

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How To Write A Cover Letter For An Internal Position Or Promotion (with Examples)

• Cover Letter Examples
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• Promotion Cover Letter
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Find a Job You Really Want In

When you find a position you’re interested in, you’ll likely still need to apply just like everyone else, which means you shouldn’t neglect your cover letter. This is why knowing how to write a cover letter for an internal position is important. Whether you’re going for an internal position or a promotion, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll go over how to write a cover letter for an internal position or promotion, provide a sample cover letter, and give you some tips to keep in mind when writing yours. Key Takeaways When writing a cover letter for promotion, you should put just as much effort into it as you would when applying to an external position — don’t assume you’ll automatically get any favor just because you already work at the company. Be specific about why you’re the right candidate for this role and how you’d help the company by working in that new capacity. Your cover letter for internal promotion should only be one page long, so include only the necessary details. In This Article    Skip to section How to write a cover letter for an internal position or promotion Cover letter example for an internal position or promotion Cover letter for an internal position or promotion template Tips for writing a promotion or internal cover letter How an internal cover letter differs from a standard cover letter Cover letter for internal position FAQ References Sign Up For More Advice and Jobs Show More How to write a cover letter for an internal position or promotion

In order to craft a stand-out cover letter that will stand out among the pile of other applications, it will be crucial to understand the specific elements that should be included. Those include (in order of appearance):

Date and contact formation. This should include your contact information and the date of submission.

Be sure to also include the employer, hiring manager , or recruiter’s name (whoever will be reading the cover letter) and professional information.

Opening paragraph. Explain how your current role prepared you for the new position. Include information regarding the specific role and department that you’re applying for.

Body paragraph. This should be a detailed (but brief) explanation of your current role, previous experience, and notable achievements at your employer’s company. Be sure to highlight both “hard skills” (technical skills) as well as “soft skills” (interpersonal communication skills).

Closing paragraph. This paragraph should show your expression of gratitude to your employer for your previous experience with the company up to this point, and for the opportunity to be considered for the role you’re now applying for.

You can also include information regarding how the recipient – i.e., the hiring manager or your employer – can get in touch with a trusted referral (be sure to confirm with that referral beforehand that he or she is willing to have their information included in your cover letter).

Closing and sign off. End with an appropriate closing and your signature if you’ll be handing in a physical copy of the cover letter.

Cover letter example for an internal position or promotion

Keeping in mind all of the themes that we’ve already outlined above, here’s a cover letter sample for an internal position or promotion:

August 10, 2023 Marissa Swarts Human Resources Manager Swarts & Sons Enterprises [email protected] Dear Mrs. Swarts, I’m excited to submit my candidacy for the role of Content Strategist in the company’s Marketing department. I began my employment with Swarts amp; Sons in August 2018 as an Assistant Copywriter. I have spent the last two years honing and broadening my abilities and learning a great deal from my managers within the department. I believe that the job requirements of the Content Strategist role that you’ve outlined on the company website match the skill set I have developed during my tenure with the company. I’ve contributed to a wide range of valuable projects for the company. Beginning in February of 2019, I spearheaded the new blog strategy which has become the primary format for blog post drafting and publishing across the entire Marketing department. Additionally, I helped launch a department-wide training program on basic SEO practices in May 2019. This program has boosted our company’s website traffic by as much as 25%. If you’re interested in learning more about my experience and accomplishments within the company, I encourage you to reach out to my supervisor , Edwin James ([email protected]). I have worked closely with Mr. James over the course of the last two years, and he would be glad to answer any questions that you might have about my suitability for the Content Strategist role. Thank you very much for your time and for the opportunity to be considered for this position. It’s been a great privilege working with Swarts amp; Sons, and I look forward to continuing to grow within the company. Sincerely, Andy Axelrod

Cover letter for an internal position or promotion template

Here is a template to help you get started on your cover letter. Be sure you tailor it to your specific needs before sending it to your hiring manager or recuiter.

August 10, 2023 Dear, Mr. Smith, I am writing to express my strong interest in the [position name] within [department name], as advertised on the company’s internal job posting. Having been part of the [current department name] team for [years on the team], I am excited to have the opportunity to contribute my skills to a new role that aligns closely with my career aspirations and the goals of the company. Throughout my time with [company name], I have consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to the company’s success, such as [mention specific achievements, projects, or initiatives you’ve been involved with]. In my current position as [current position title], I have developed a foundation in [mention specific skills, responsibilities, or accomplishments], which I believe puts me in a position for success in [position you’re applying for]. I am particularly excited about [mention specific aspects that intrigue you]. This opportunity aligns perfectly with my long-term career goals, and I am eager to contribute to [department name]’s success. Thank you for your consideration. I welcome the chance to discuss how my experience and enthusiasm align with [position name] in more detail at [your contact information]. Please find my resume attached for your review. Sincerely, [your name]

Tips for writing a promotion or internal cover letter

You should never assume that you will get the position just because you have experience within the company. You should also stick to a professional format when writing your letter. Here are some more tips to keep in mind when writing your cover letter for a promotion or an internal position:

Don’t assume. Don’t expect that you’ll be chosen solely on the basis of the fact that you have experience within the company you’re applying to. If you’re keenly interested in a job opening, there’s a very good chance that a large number of other internal (as well as external) applicants are too. Make the effort to put your best foot forward with a polished application and cover letter.

Be truthfully self-promoting. By drafting and submitting a high-quality cover letter, you have a golden opportunity to communicate the specific reasons why you’re the ideal candidate for the role in a way that doesn’t sound braggy. Talk about your skills and accomplishments without stretching the truth but also without being self-deprecatingly modest.

Don’t take your cover letter lightly. In many cases, it (along with resumes ) will be a key factor in a hiring manager’s decision regarding which applicants are qualified to advance to the interview stage .

Stick to a classic, professional format. Adhering closely to a tried-and-true cover letter template (like the one we’ve outlined above) will help you to create a cover letter that will grab the eye of any hiring manager without making them work too hard to figure out how your letter is laid out.

Remember brevity is important. Hiring managers and HR employees tend to be very busy people, and it’s one of their job requirements to review dozens (and sometimes hundreds) of job requirements.

Don’t lie. You should never lie on your cover letter or resume, but this is especially important for a cover letter for an internal position or promotion.

How an internal cover letter differs from a standard cover letter

Now, it’s important to understand from the outset that the process of drafting a cover letter for an internal position or promotion will differ in some important respects from that of a cover letter that’s submitted by an external applicant.

Cover letter for internal position. In the case of a cover letter for an internal position or promotion, the hiring manager will very likely already be (at least somewhat) familiar with the applicant’s background and experience, which makes it very important for the applicant to record details as truthfully as possible.

Standard cover letter. In the latter case, an employer will be largely unfamiliar with the applicant’s professional profile, so there’s always the chance that the applicant might risk exaggerating (or fabricating) some of the information that’s included. This leads to an understandable wariness in the minds of many hiring managers when they’re reviewing the qualifications of an external candidate.

It’s also important to bear in mind that internal applicants have some significant advantages over external applicants in the review and hiring process. As an internal applicant, you’ll be able to:

Draw on specific contributions that you’ve already made to the company

Include references who are (ideally) trusted acquaintances of the hiring manager

Understand what the company values and use that to your advantage

These factors make it much more likely that your application will be favored – and ultimately selected – during the hiring process.

Cover letter for internal position FAQ

Do you write a cover letter for an internal position?

Yes, you should write a cover letter when applying for an internal position. Writing a well-crafted cover letter helps distinguish you as a strong candidate for promotion among your competition and allows you to formally apply for the position.

How do I write a cover letter for a promotion?

When writing a cover letter for a promotion, be sure to explain your interest in the job and what your qualifications are for the position. Although your hiring manager may already know your accomplishments and experience, it’s a good idea to reiterate them all in one document to demonstrate your readiness for a new position.

Additionally, you should include your knowledge of the company’s mission, needs, and the growth you have experienced in your current position thus far.

Including these things reminds your employer that you have a history with the company, that you have directly contributed to its success, and that you are invested in its mission and goals.

Craft your cover letter for promotion exactly as you would a regular cover letter, but be sure to add the prior mentioned specifics to demonstrate the value of promoting an internal employee versus hiring an outside candidate.

The first paragraph should begin with a statement of interest regarding the position. Here you can summarize your career goals and any stand-out qualifications or accomplishments.

Your second paragraph should discuss your qualifications and experience in more detail by including figures and data when possible.

Your third paragraph should expand on your improvements in your current job since joining the company. Be sure to tie these to the open position at hand.

Your final paragraph should remind the hiring manager of your interest and include the next step in the hiring process. Don’t forget to express your gratitude before signing off with a formal closing.

How do you start a promotion cover letter?

Start your promotion cover letter by saying, “I would like to formally apply for the [job title] position in the [department].

When you send a cover letter internally, it’s assumed you have discussed the position at hand with your current or new hiring manager.

They may anticipate you applying, so it’s a great idea to articulate that this is simply your formal application when crafting your cover letter.

How long should your cover letter be for an internal position?

Your cover letter should only be one page for an internal position. You should only include the necessary details that pertain to the position that you are applying to. Your cover letter should be one page single-spaced.

Is a cover letter for a promotion necessary?

Yes, a cover letter for a promotion is necessary if the job requires one. You should never assume that you are going to get a promotion just because you work for the company. You should write your cover letter the same way you would if you were applying as an outside candidate. Make sure you are professional in your letter. Just because you work with the hiring manager doesn’t mean you can slack off.

Harvard University – Resumes and Cover Letters

Broad Institute – Cover Letter for a Job

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Kate is a graduate of Brigham Young University, where she completed a degree in Comparative Literature with a minor in Mathematics. She lives in the Pacific Northwest and enjoys hiking and reading.

Matt Warzel a President of a resume writing firm (MJW Careers, LLC) with 15+ years of recruitment, outplacement, career coaching and resume writing experience. Matt is also a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and Certified Internet Recruiter (CIR) with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Marketing Focus) from John Carroll University.

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Cover Letter for Internal Position or Promotion

So you’ve got your eyes on a job opportunity in your own company. Though you have insider knowledge of the job, you’ll need to convince the hiring manager you’re the best applicant. Read on for writing tips and example cover letters you can download.

As featured in: *

You don’t have to hop from company to company to move up the career ladder — even if that’s what most employees mistakenly believe .

A great job opportunity might be available at the place you already work.

But for your internal application to be a success, you’ll need to make a cover letter — whether you’re pursuing a promotion or a transfer to another department.

The key to writing the best cover letters is to tell the employer why you’ll excel at the job and your reasons for applying.

The same is true of writing a cover letter for internal positions.

But as you already work for the hiring company, there are some key differences between how you should handle an internal application and how you write a cover letter normally.

Ready to move through the ranks? In this article, we’ll cover what an internal cover letter is, what to include in your letter, and how to take advantage of your current position within the company.

Don’t forget — you’ll also need to write a CV for an internal position or promotion! And if you’ve been promoted before, learn how to show promotions on your CV to convey your career progression clearly.

What’s different about a cover letter for an internal position?

When you apply for an internal position, you already work for the hiring company. This gives you a couple of important advantages over external candidates:

• You know more about the position, culture, and work environment
• The employer knows you already, or they can find out about you by asking their colleagues

This will affect how you start your cover letter . For example, if you work for a small company or already know the hiring manager, it may not be necessary to introduce your current position — especially if you’re applying for a promotion.

Instead, your introduction should outline your career plans within the company. You can do this by teasing some of the skills or experiences that have prepared you for the role’s responsibilities.

You should also use your knowledge of the company to align yourself with its core values.

Writing cover letters for a promotion vs internal transfer

How you should write your internal cover letter depends on what kind of transfer you’re applying for.

If you’re writing a cover letter for a promotion, you should focus on underlining your excellent performance in your current role and demonstrate how this performance has prepared you to take on greater responsibilities.

If applying for an internal transfer, focus on hard skills (job-specific abilities) and soft skills (character traits) that transfer well between your current job and the job you hope to get.

For example, if you were hoping to move from a sales role to a marketing role, you could highlight transferable skills like community outreach skills and written communication to show the hiring manager how you’d excel as a member of their team.

You should also make a CV highlighting the same transferable skills. But remember to expand on those skills in your cover letter, rather than just repeating the information you put your CV .

Cover letter for promotion example

Here’s an example cover letter for a promotion that demonstrates how the applicant’s current role has prepared them for increased responsibility.

Cover letter for promotion example (text version)

Contact Person’s Name 5 Old Palace Road Guildford GU2 7TU 01483 527593 [email protected]

Dear [Mr/Ms/Mx] [Contact Person’s Name],

As a loyal employee of Springr, I’m thrilled to apply for the position of Associate Marketing Manager. During my three years in the role of Digital Marketing Specialist, I’ve demonstrated an expert understanding of social media analytics, content strategy, and market research, all key skills that you’re seeking in this hire. As a result, I believe myself to be an excellent candidate for this job.

Springr needs a manager with hands-on paid media and social media experience who can stoke up consumer interest and excitement about our upcoming product launches. During my tenure, I oversaw the implementation of 4 product launch campaigns, increasing social reach and engagement by an average of 60%. My ability to carry out insightful audience research to craft engaging user-centred content was instrumental in the success of these campaigns.

Working with Springr has also allowed me to foster the leadership and organisational skills expected of your next Associate Marketing Manager. In addition to training and onboarding new full-time employees, I’ve mentored 5 interns, all of whom went on to apply for positions at Springr after graduation.

Springr’s core values of innovation, teamwork, and continual development have allowed me to flourish as a marketer, and I’m excited to continue my professional growth with the company.

Thank you for considering me for the role. I’d be delighted to meet with you at your convenience to further discuss the available position. I’ll be following up with you next week to confirm your receipt of my application.

Cover letter for internal position example

If you’re applying to transfer to another position in the company, you’ll want to show the employer that your target position is better aligned with your career goals. One way to do this is by highlighting important transferable skills that you mastered in your current role, as with this example:

Contact Person’s Name 1 Petersfield Avenue Slough SL2 5EA (01753) 1234-567 [email protected]

As a dedicated employee of Superb.ly, I’m excited to apply for the position of Sales Development Representative. As you can confirm with my manager, Kimberly Alcott, I’ve developed first-class communication skills and expert knowledge of our products in my present role as a customer service coordinator at Superb.ly. While I’m content with my current position, the sales development role is more in line with my career interests.

I see you’re seeking a candidate with hands-on experience in sales activities such as nurturing and retaining leads. I handle 90+ calls a day for Superb.ly’s customer service department and have an average customer satisfaction rate of 85%, among the highest in my team. My excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills would make me an excellent first point of contact for prospective customers, as demonstrated by my spotless record addressing customer queries.

Superb.ly’s plans to expand its operations in Europe align perfectly with my own goals within this company. With a BA in German with French, I’ve been seeking an opportunity to apply my language skills to my profession and am eager to take on the responsibilities involved, including travel.

Given my knowledge of both the company and the markets in which you’re expanding, I believe myself to be an excellent candidate for this role. It has been a privilege to work with Superb.ly, and I look forward to discussing this opportunity with you further at your convenience. I’ll follow up with you next week to confirm your receipt of my application.

How to write a good cover letter for an internal position

Wondering how to word a cover to secure an internal position? We’ll guide you through the process.

1. Write a strong introduction

Writing a cover letter introduction for an internal position differs from how you’d write one for a job at a different company.

While you’d normally start a cover letter by giving your name and work history and outlining your qualifications for the job, the content of an internal cover letter introduction should reflect how well you know the hiring manager.

If you’ve worked with the hiring manager before, it’s not necessary to introduce yourself in full.

A more effective approach is to write a short cover letter outlining your career goals, your commitment to the company, and how taking the role serves you in your career.

This introduction would suit a cover letter for an internal position in a small or large company:

The applicant states that they’re already an employee of Superb.ly and highlights their commitment to the company.

They also highlight two key skills for the hiring position, which tailors their letter to the job and helps their application stand out.

Giving the name of a manager or supervisor will make your application more credible — though only do this if you’ve discussed the transfer with your manager first.

2. Outline your qualifications

As with any cover letter, your second paragraph should convince the hiring manager your relevant work experience and skills make you the best candidate for the position.

If you’re applying to transfer to a different area of the company, highlight hard skills and soft skills you’ve developed in the new position.

If you’re applying for a more senior position, you should also show how your hard and soft skills have prepared you to take on greater responsibilities.

Including numbers will make your cover letter more specific and easier to read. For example, the applicant above says that they handle 90+ calls daily, so the hiring manager can immediately grasp their responsibilities within the company.

The applicant also does an excellent job of highlighting soft skills, such as communication and interpersonal skills , which are important to both customer service and sales roles. Demonstrating strong relevant soft skills demonstrates to the manager that you’d excel in your new role.

3. Explain why you want to make the move

When applying for an internal position, it’s important to create a strong narrative to convince the hiring manager you’re not only well qualified for the position but eager to grow with the company.

Regardless of the industry, employers look for candidates who stick around and provide a good return on investment for the company.

Showing the hiring manager your long-term career goals align with the company will reassure them you’re the kind of employee worth investing in.

Use your knowledge of the company to your advantage.

In the example above, the applicant uses the company’s plans to expand into foreign markets to demonstrate how some of their untapped skills will be useful moving forward.

They also align their career goals with a company objective.

You may use company values, work culture, or the targets and objectives of the hiring team to justify your desire for an internal transfer.

4. Make a positive closing statement

While your goal is to change jobs, you also want to demonstrate your commitment to the company.

Finish your cover letter by expressing gratitude for your current position, asserting the value of the open position to your career plans, and the benefits you can offer the hiring team.

Show eagerness to discuss the position further and let the hiring manager know you’ll follow up on your application.

A positive attitude about your current job and readiness to take on new responsibilities will reflect well on you as an employee and show loyalty.

Seb Morgan is a Career Counsellor for CV Genius, where he helps job seekers and professionals get more out of their careers. With over 7 years of experience in business and lifestyle journalism, he's written for a stack of careers-focused publications, including Oxbridge Home Learning, Study International, theHRDirector, and Employee Benefit News, and his expertise includes skill development, interview preparation, and CV and cover letter writing. West Midlands born and raised, Seb has since lived, worked, and studied in 4 countries across 2 continents. He speaks 4 languages and has survived job interviews in 3 of them. He currently also freelances as a travel and culture writer. Reach him at [sebastian] @ [cvgenius.com] or via LinkedIn.

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How to Write an Effective Internal Position Cover Letter and Resume

You have probably spent years working for your organization. You deliver outstanding results, meet company goals, and now you feel it’s time to advance into a different department or ask for a promotion. But how do you go about it? It’s easy to assume that you don’t need to submit an internal position cover letter and resume because your track record already speaks volumes.

However, that isn’t always the case. Whether you’re seeking a promotion or applying for a new departmental position, you must submit a cover letter and an internal position resume. Usually, this application centers on your current role and convinces the hiring manager and managerial staff that you are ready for the position. 

Find your bootcamp match

Keep reading to learn several tips and tricks that will guide you in writing a successful internal position cover letter and resume.

Internal Position Cover Letter Guide

Writing a cover letter for an internal position shouldn’t be as challenging because you already know the company dynamics. You only need to express your interest in the job and explain how you intend to transition into the new role. You can list a few of the significant achievements you have accomplished in your current role.

Why Does Your Internal Position Cover Letter Matter?

An internal cover letter is important because it positions you as a strong candidate for the role. Not every department manager knows your achievements and skills. Writing a cover letter to accompany your resume captures the hiring manager’s attention, giving you an upper hand.

Most people who apply for internal positions are highly qualified and deserving. A cover letter allows you to vouch for yourself and explain why you are the right pick for the job. You can showcase your contribution to the company and explain how your current role shaped you for the new position.

Essential Components of Your Internal Position Cover Letter

Internal position cover letters follow the same cover letter format as universal cover letters . However, the letter’s contents will focus more on your current position and not previous job opportunities. Here are the most significant components of an internal position cover letter.

• Contact information. You will include your contact information and the company’s information. In addition, you will add the date of your application. Your information allows the recruiters to give you feedback and the date proves that you submitted your application before the deadline.
• Salutation. You will address the letter to the hiring manager using their name. Luckily, because it is an internal job posting, you can find the hiring manager’s name. Using the official name makes the letter more personable and captures attention.
• Two or three body paragraphs. Start by expressing interest in the open position and highlighting your qualifications. The next paragraph covers how your capabilities align with the job opening. Include hard data to prove your achievements at the company. Finally, explain how you have grown in your current position and how your skills will contribute to your success in the new role.
• Conclusion. This paragraph concludes the letter by expressing gratitude to the hiring manager and prompting them to consider you for the next step of the hiring process. It should be about two to three sentences in length and conclude with a handwritten signature and formal closing, such as “kind regards” or “sincerely.”

5 Tips for Writing a Strong Internal Position Cover Letter

There are hundreds of tips when it comes to writing cover letters. However, writing an internal position cover letter requires more attention and knowledge of the company culture and products. Here are the five top tips to implement in your cover letter.

• Be professional. You may be a seasoned employee, but that doesn’t mean you can rely on your relationships at the company to get ahead. Don’t randomly throw in your boss’s name unless you’re using them for a recommendation. Write a formal letter like you would for an external position.
• Use insider knowledge. As an employee, you already know about the organization. Tailor your achievements to match what the company is looking for in a candidate. Highlight specific contributions and explain why they make you the right fit for the job opening. You can use figures and measurable outcomes to emphasize your point.
• Keep it short. Cover letters should be brief and to the point. Typically, your cover letter should be around 250-350 words, which is under one page. Only focus on meaningful information to make your cover letter captivating. Your resume will contain additional information.
• Speak highly of your boss. Always show gratitude and explain that your boss played a crucial role in preparing you for the new position. Keep in mind, the chances of the hiring managers reaching out to your boss for confirmation on your work are very high.
• Proofread your work. Don’t ever submit your job application before proofreading. Proofreading helps you correct grammatical errors and edit out unnecessary information. Your hiring manager will appreciate a well-crafted cover letter.

Internal Position Cover Letter Example

Now that you’re aware of the components and tips for writing a professional cover letter, you can go ahead and draft a few examples. But if you also need a practical example, here is a sample cover letter for an internal position.

Internal Position Cover Letter Sample

123 Street St., New York, NY

(123) 456 7890

[email protected]

November 20, 2021

Madeleine Woods

XYZ Creatives

321 Manhattan, New York

Dear Ms. Woods,

I am writing to formally express my interest in the Digital Marketing Manager position in the Sales and Marketing Department. I was ecstatic to learn about the role as it allowed me to showcase my leadership skills and long-term experience in digital marketing. I am currently working in the same department as an assistant sales manager.

When I joined XYZ Creatives in 2017 as a Sales Associate, my goal was to learn and contribute to the department and organization at large. Since then, I have gained extensive experience in online sales, digital marketing, and management. I have also risen to become an assistant sales manager, working under the most supportive department head.

My digital marketing expertise led to a 32 percent client growth and improved client satisfaction ratings. In addition, I joined a digital marketing bootcamp in 2020 to learn about analytical marketing skills, digital marketing tools, improving client loyalty online and in person, and more. I can use my knowledge and experience in the sales department to ensure client satisfaction and lay a firm foundation for the long-term success of digital marketing campaigns at XYZ Creatives.

I have attached my resume, which features all my notable achievements and skills. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss further the Digital Marketing Manager position and how to move XYZ Creatives forward. I appreciate your consideration and look forward to hearing from you,

Internal Position Resume Guide

Although you submitted your resume when applying for your current role, you still need to write a new one for the internal position. Remember, you have made more strides in your career path and achieved new goals along the way, so you should update your resume to reflect those accomplishments. Keep reading for tips on how to write a winning resume .

Why Does Your Internal Position Cover Letter and Resume Matter?

An internal position resume allows you to add the new achievements and skills that you developed while in your current position. For example, you may have attended a coding bootcamp or contributed severally to the success of various company initiatives. Adding these achievements to your resume makes you a strong contender for the position.

Whether you’re seeking an opportunity for a promotion or applying for a new position, hiring managers always expect a fresh resume. An official application process places you in the same position as external candidates, meaning all your application materials are necessary.

"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"

Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot

Furthermore, internal resumes allow you to use specific client names, programs, and initiatives that the hiring manager is familiar with. You can include reviews from your colleagues and department manager to prove that you are the ideal candidate. A specific and detailed resume will demonstrate how you’ve made an impact on the company since you were first hired.

Essential Components of Your Internal Position Resume

Unlike typical resumes, resumes for an internal position focus more on your career paths within the company. All you’re doing is adding to an already submitted resume while focusing on relevant achievements, skills, and goals. However, you need to write a new one and include these essential components.

• Contact information: The header features your full name and contact information. You will include your phone number, physical address, email address, and professional profile, such as LinkedIn. This section also allows you to upgrade your information if you have moved within the employment period.
• Professional summary. You must write a new professional summary to demonstrate your growth within the company. This section features your career objectives and an overview of your professional life within the organization.
• Work experience. In an internal resume, this section focuses on your duties and achievements within the company. However, if your previous experience from a different employer is relevant to the position, it is essential to add that to your resume. Alternatively, if you don’t have extensive experience working for the company, you can also rely on previous experience.
• Education. Your education history is significant because it helps the hiring manager determine whether you’re the right candidate for the role. Add relevant education history to this section.
• Skills. This section is where you get to brag a little and showcase your skills. Note down previous skills and all the skills you learned as an employee of the company. These can include technical skills and soft skills that are relevant to the position.
• Additional sections. These sections include the hobbies and interests you picked up, courses, awards, certifications, memberships, and other relevant information. These sections are not mandatory, but they can help boost your resume and place you ahead of other internal candidates.

5 Tips for Writing a Strong Internal Position Resume

Your resume can make or break your application. Generally, hiring managers go through hundreds of resumes, and many lack the patience to understand a poorly written resume. Here are five essential tips to guide you in writing your internal position resume to avoid such instances.

• Write a new resume. When writing a resume for an internal position, it is advisable to write an entirely new resume instead of editing your previous resume. You will need to add new skills, achievements, and promotions. In addition, writing a new resume shows that you are serious about the job application.
• Change your professional summary. Altering your summary is important because, over the years, your career aspirations and goals will change. You will achieve your career objectives and develop new ones, making your previous professional summary irrelevant. In addition, your professional summary must align with the target position.
• Use keywords. Hiring managers seek the services of resume scanning software to select the best resumes. These scanners detect specific keywords set by the managers and separate the resumes accordingly. To ensure your resume is prioritized, go through the job description and include relevant keywords within your application.
• Focus on your internal achievements. Demonstrate your accomplishments as a hard-working employee, team player, and leader. If the hiring manager is impressed by your hard work and commitment as a loyal employee, you will likely become the best candidate for promotion.
• Adapt the company language. As an employee, you already understand the company culture. That means you can use company language in certain sections of your resume. For example, if your employer is focused on client satisfaction and mentoring as the key company goals, ensure you strategically add these words to your resume.

Internal Position Resume Examples

If you have a hard time drafting the perfect internal position resume, you can use resume builders, which feature templates and resume samples. We have also outlined two resume examples to guide you during the writing process. One focuses on the skills section and the second one features a full resume template for internal positions.

Internal Position Resume Sample: The Skills Section

While the specific skills included in this section may vary based on the keywords mentioned in the job description, below are some of the typical qualifications professionals tend to have within their documentation.

• Data analysis, content creation, SEO, and CRM, which are requisite skills in digital marketing
• Excellent sales skills to enhance client growth and loyalty
•   Adept leadership skills demonstrated through timely deliveries in the sales department
• Interpersonal skills to maintain solid client relationships and the marketing team
• Project management skills to facilitate professional development opportunities
• Knowledge of Semrush, Google Analytics, Hubspot, WASK, and Act-On

Sample Internal Position Resume Template

Phone Number, Email Address

LinkedIn Profile

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Write a captivating summary that will capture the reader’s attention. In 2-3 sentences, express a bit of your personality, experience level, achievements within the company, and career objectives.

WORK EXPERIENCE

List your work experience using bullet points and in chronological order. Remember to include all your promotions (if any) and responsibilities. You can also list your key achievements below each role.

Company, City, State

Dates Employed

• List responsibilities

Key Achievements

• List relevant achievements

List your education starting with the highest degree. If you advanced your education after receiving employment, state that clearly in this section. You don’t have to add high school information if you have a university degree.

List all the relevant skills using bullet points. Remember to tailor these skills to match the job opening. You can refer to the section above.

CERTIFICATIONS AND AWARDS

List all your certifications and awards. You can skip this section if you don’t have any certifications or awards.

Internal Position Resume Template Resources

• Microsoft . Microsoft offers different resume templates for internal company promotions and transfers. They are downloadable word documents that you can tailor to suit your application.
• Template.net . This site features several resume templates for different career fields. You will find internal position templates for sales managers, audit directors, communication managers, and more.
• Indeed . This popular job search platform also offers resources on writing a strong resume. There are templates, tips, and examples for writing your internal position resume. 

Importance of an Internal Position Cover Letter and Resume

An internal position cover letter and resume are essential for the organization and employees. These application materials make the process more credible because all internal candidates follow the same application process. In addition, you have the opportunity to showcase your demonstratable success and contributions to the company.

Internal Position Cover Letter and Resume FAQ

Your cover letter should focus inward, highlighting your contributions to the current company. You will include measurable outcomes of your work and the relevant experience that makes you the ideal candidate for the position.

Yes. A resume is mandatory when applying for an internal promotion or transfer. Writing a fresh resume allows you to include any relevant achievements, skills, and education certificates you attained after your employment. These additions make a significant difference in your job application.

An internal position cover letter is less detailed compared to a resume. Your cover letter offers a brief introduction of your interest in the position and why you are the right candidate. It also highlights significant achievements and skills, whereas a resume gives a more detailed overview of your work experience and broader career plans.

The best way to apply for an internal position is to submit a well-crafted cover letter and resume, expressing your interest in the position. Leverage your skills, achievements, and contribution to the company to prove that you are the right fit. Once your application is submitted, you can send a follow-up a few days or weeks later, depending on the feedback timeframe.

About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication .

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How to write a cover letter for internal position

Cover letter for internal position.

Writing a cover letter for an internal position is slightly different from a traditional cover letter for an external job application, as you already work within the company. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write an effective cover letter for an internal position:

Cover letter Format for internal position

Please note that you should customize this template to match your specific situation, the internal position you’re applying for, and your own experiences and qualifications. Be sure to emphasize how your current role has prepared you for the new position and how you can contribute to the company’s continued success.

Sample Cover Letter Templates

Cover letter for promotion

Promotion cover letter examples, seeking a promotion within the same department.

Seeking a Cross-Departmental Promotion

Click Here for Cover letter templates

Seeking an Executive-Level Promotion

Remember to customize these templates to your specific situation, ensuring that you highlight your relevant achievements and qualifications for the promotion you are seeking.

In conclusion, a cover letter for a promotion should be a concise yet compelling document that showcases your accomplishments, qualifications, and enthusiasm for the new role. By addressing the above key points, you can present a strong case for why you are the ideal candidate for the promotion and leave a positive impression on your employer. Remember to customize your letter to your specific situation and the position you are seeking.

Top Well-Performed Cover Letter for Internal Positions

A cover letter is crucial if your goal is to convince the employer that you are the right person deserving of a promotion. It is the first thing that attracts management attention. This article will give you the answers to every concerning question:

• What is a Cover Letter for Internal Positions?
• How to compose a decent cover letter?
• Which types of cover letters for internal positions prevail today?
• Potent examples of the best cover letters
• Instruction on writing a cover letter for an internal position recommendations

If you don’t wish to risk your job progress, it is recommended to have your cover letter composed by an expert for the best results. With our assistance, your cover letter will be written diligently and skillfully.

What is a Cover Letter for Internal Positions

A cover letter for internal positions is a document in the form of a letter that is sent along with your resume in response to a job offer. When we talk about promotions within a particular company, an employee will be requested to compose a personal cover letter for an internal position. Indeed, today most companies require writing a cover letter when applying for a higher position. Providing cover letter for internal position is optional, but the manager will be pleasantly surprised by your initiative.

Whether your aim is a vertical shift or a lateral transfer, do not neglect to create an internal job cover letter. It helps to stand out among other candidates and interests the recruiter. Telling in detail about all your achievements in the current company, explaining the motivation to work further - all these are necessary to prove you are a person who deserves better.

Want to have your resume well-done with no efforts and in no time? Welcome, our resume writing service is over here to give you a help. We'll get you covered! You can read more about our help at skillhub reviews page.

Why are Internal Cover Letters a Step Towards a Dream Job?

Sooner or later an employee can face the problem of stagnation and express an interest in the new role, a more decent one. Even though a strong desire is a good driver of motivation, it is not enough to get a promotion.

A cover letter for an internal position is crucial for describing a candidate’s qualifications in a proper way. It usually turns out to be even more important than the resume as it is a concise announcement of your main document.

The Structure of a Cover Letter for an Internal Job

An appropriate cover letter format must include the following blocks:

It is desirable to address the letter to a specific person.

2. The body of a letter

This part of an internal position cover letter consists of two integral elements. The first is a short explanation of your motivation. The second is a statement relating to your personal qualities.

3. Contact information

4. Signature

Do not forget that a cover letter is only an introductory document to the resume. Thus, it should be a concise statement substantiating your professional and personal qualities for the position for which you are applying.

There is nothing worse than a long, novel-like cover letter that makes the HR manager feel tired at the sight of it. An ideal cover letter length is 250-350 words, which is a one-page maximum. Note, that it is recommended that the text is formatted in 12-point font.

Engaging Introduction to a Cover Letter

Your cover letter for an internal job posting should have an interesting beginning. It is crucial to encourage a company manager to read it to the end. There is nothing more boring than using common phrases and patterns found on the internet. This demonstrates an indifferent attitude to the requirements of the employer. Be yourself, try to catch the attention of a person who will consider your position. Show that it is composed specifically for the company in which you see yourself.

Composing a Cover Letter for Promotion

A cover letter is not a universal document, suitable for any situation. For example, a cover letter for internal promotion stands out for its significance as it must include more compelling statements.  Composing  a cover letter for promotion - describe what new skills you are competent in. Prove you are a reliable person, ready to take up more difficult responsibilities.

Creating a Cover Letter for an Internal Job Transfer

If your goal is creating a cover letter for an internal job transfer within the same company, consider the following recommendations. First, emphasize your gratitude for being a part of the team. Second, indicate how passionate you are about promoting your company in the market. And most importantly - describe your technical skills enabling you to work even better after an internal transfer.

Advertise Yourself: Describing Personal Qualifications and Skills

A professional cover letter does not copy your resume at all! The resume contains information about your skills and experience. In turn, an internal applicant cover letter should describe how you can use them to the company’s advantage.

Do not write too much about your character traits. Anyone can write that he is a hardworking, responsible and inventive laborer. It is better to include a list of courses and programs you’ve completed or objectives you’ve managed to meet. A hiring manager will consider your applicable talents first of all.

Signify Your Achievements in the Current Position

Include only the information that is relevant to your desired position. The employer will definitely assess your contributions if you manage to stand out from the crowd.

Note that the information in this part depends on the overall aim of your internal job posting cover letter. For example, if you want to get a promotion, focus on those results that prove you can be a leader and guide the team. If your desire is a lateral transfer, you should emphasize the progress the company achieved due to your technical capabilities.

Express Gratefulness for Considering Your Candidacy

To correctly conclude your cover letter for internal job transfer, think about expressing gratitude in a polite way. As well as at the beginning of your document, it is essential to include a personalized and thoughtful appeal in the final part. Thank the recruiter for accepting your request and reading the cover letter.

The final paragraph should not exceed one or two sentences. Still, it is recommended to include the wishes to land the interview and express readiness to come to the discussion or provide further information.

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Common Types of Cover Letters for an Internal Position

There exist several types of cover letters for internal positions. Let us consider the most common ones:

• Promotional cover letter. In this document, an employee must prove in detail to the employer that he is ready for a higher position.
• Letter of interest for internal position. This document includes information relating to the working background within a large company and motivation to get a transfer.

This list is non-exhaustive as some other types can also be included: a cover letter of gratitude; an inquiry; confirmation; or description.

Sample Cover Letter for Promotion

While using ready-made templates for composing a personal promotional cover letter is sometimes risky, it is better to acquaint yourself with some cover letters for internal promotion examples:

Look at cover letter examples by industry you can find at https://skillhub.com/cover-letter-examples

Email Cover Letter for Internal Position Example

Read a sample cover letter for an internal position and learn how to write a cover letter for an internal position properly.

Recommendations for the Cover Letter for Internal Position Improvement

To create a perfect cover letter for promotion and increase your chances, follow some cover letter tips which have already helped many people get their dream job:

• Do not write about personal qualities that are not related to the job.
• Focus on specifics.
• Demonstrate your knowledge of business etiquette.
• Add emotion and personalize your message.
• Write about responsibility and readiness to learn.
• Strive for brevity.
• Use bulleted lists.
• Be careful with spelling and punctuation.
• Do not ask about work schedule, salary, conditions.

Cover Letter Template for Internal Position

To make the hiring process easy for yourself, make sure your cover letter is composed impeccably. For this purpose, analyze applying for an internal position cover letter sample:

Your Contact Information

The Name of a Hiring Manager

The Name of a Company

1. First paragraph:

A specific statement about the position you apply for and a few key benefits that demonstrate suitability for the position.

2. Second paragraph:

Examples of accomplished and achieved results.

3. Third paragraph:

How you can contribute to the business's mission.

4. Conclusion:

Requesting a meeting and expressing gratitude.

5. Your Signature.

Application of Knowledge in Practice

There is no doubt that reading this article has increased your chances of getting hired. Having all the answers in hand you can start moving forward to creating your perfect cover letter. But how not to forget all the essential information and structure it in the head? Here is a digest of all tips as to what makes a good cover letter:

• An attractive and well-planned cover letter will help you stand out and land an interview.
• The cover letter should show the employer what the company will get from you.
• It is crucial to be attentive to the format of your cover letter, avoid large volumes and be careful with the style.
• Use sample cover letters for internal positions to make sure your document does not contain any errors.

After reading, you are still not sure how to write a cover letter for internal positions and maybe you need a professional content writer help? Try our Skillhub's cover letter writing service . You'll get an adjusted cover letter for your potential job position. In case you a need a perfect resume to stand over other candidates, our executive resume writing service is over there. Our professional experts are always happy to have your back and consult you about career writing !

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How to Write a Cover Letter for a Promotion

Author: Melanie Lasala

| Editor: Andy Agouridis

Table of Contents

1. Leverage Existing Relationships and Knowledge

2. engage with target department members, 3. highlight your interest , step 1: add a contact information section, step 2: open with a creative intro, step 3: compose the body of the cover letter with precision, step 4: close the cover letter strong.

• Sample Cover Letters for Internal Positions 

Top Tips for Writing a Cover Letter for an Internal Position

Do you love working at your current company but are looking for a change? Whether you’re aiming for a new role, a higher position, or a department transfer, applying for an internal job opening could be a good move for you. But don’t be too complacent. Being an existing employee doesn’t necessarily mean you are first in line for any open position in your company. You may have to compete with other internal or external candidates for the role.

Cover Letter Sample for Internal Position

How to Get Started When Applying for an Internal Position

Applying for an internal position is different from applying for an external one. Internal candidates should leverage their existing relationships and insider knowledge effectively. Start by arranging a meeting with the hiring manager or the head of the department you’re interested in. This face time can help you understand the role better and make a positive impression. You could also ask a colleague for a soft introduction.

Connect with team members in the department you’re targeting. During informal meet-ups, share your enthusiasm and explain why you’re a good fit for the team. It’s also a good idea to inform your current supervisor about your intentions. This approach maintains transparency and ensures that your manager hears about your application from you first. Emphasize your desire for growth and new challenges rather than dissatisfaction with your current role.

Being an internal candidate is an advantage, but it’s your proactive efforts and genuine interest that will truly set you apart. After making your intentions clear, submit your application, including your resume and cover letter. Writing a cover letter for an internal position is important because it allows you to tell your story- why you want to make the shift, how you are the best candidate for the role, and what you bring to the table .

In this blog, we’ll discuss a step-by-step guide for crafting a compelling cover letter for an internal position.

How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internal Position 

Writing a cover letter for an internal position requires a strategic approach to highlight your insider knowledge and commitment to the company.

Before diving into the details, here’s a summary of what your internal cover letter should consist of:

A. Contact Information

B. Introduction

C. Body of the Cover Letter

• Align Your Experience with the Job Description
• Match the Style of Your Company’s Communications
• Leverage Personal Connections and Internal Knowledge
• Highlight Specific and Quantifiable Achievements
• Showcase Cross-Departmental Experience and Transferable Skills
• Demonstrate Leadership and Readiness for Higher Responsibility
• Demonstrate Motivation for the Job

D. Conclusion

Although basic, the contact information section plays a vital role in your cover letter for an internal position. Make sure to use your internal credentials like your work email address and phone extension, as this reinforces your current relationship with the company. Moreover, address the cover letter to the specific hiring manager or department head by name. This demonstrates professionalism and familiarity with the company’s structure.

Your cover letter should have an engaging introduction to encourage the hiring manager to read it till the end. Start by clearly mentioning the specific position you are applying for and where you found out about the job opening (e.g., through an internal job board or a referral). Highlight a key qualification or experience that makes you an ideal candidate for the position. Additionally, mention any relevant interactions with the hiring manager or department head to show that you are proactive and engaged. Conclude the opening paragraph by expressing your enthusiasm and readiness to take on new responsibilities.

“I am excited to apply for the Marketing Head position at ABC Corporation, which I learned about through our internal job board. In my current role as a Senior Marketing Manager, I have mastered skills in digital marketing, campaign management, and market analysis. These skills helped our department consistently surpass annual sales goals by 15%. I look forward to reaching new milestones and am eager to leverage my leadership, sales, and marketing expertise for this new challenge.”

In the body of your cover letter, you need to showcase how you are qualified for the target job. We recommend keeping the body to 2-3 paragraphs. Select the most relevant, impressive, and unique parts of your professional experience, including responsibilities, skills, and achievements, to create a powerful, cohesive, and compelling story .

Here are key points to follow:

1. Align Your Experience with the Job Description

Start by thoroughly reviewing the job description and noting all the requirements. Describe how your current job functions, skill sets, and career goals align with the target position. Having discussed the role with the hiring manager and the concerned department, leverage your understanding of the specific nuances and requirements of the new role.

“I have closely reviewed the requirements for the Senior Marketing Manager position and believe my current role as Marketing Coordinator aligns perfectly with these expectations. Over the past 3 years, I have developed advanced skills in digital marketing and led several successful campaigns, which mirror the key responsibilities of the new role. In my recent discussions with John Smith, the Director of Marketing, I gained deeper insights into the strategic goals of the department, which align perfectly with my experience in driving digital engagement.”

2. Match the Style of Your Company’s Communications

Use the tone, voice, and language that your company follows to ensure consistency. Match the formality and style of your company’s communications. If your company’s internal communications are typically casual and friendly, reflect that in your cover letter . Conversely, if the tone is more formal and professional, maintain that level of formality. Use the jargon, values, and terms commonly used within the company.

“At BrightTech Solutions, our culture is rooted in transparency and collaboration. My current role has allowed me to contribute to these principles through leading innovative projects like the ‘Future Forward’ initiative, where I utilized my skills in project management and cross-functional teamwork to drive results. Our team’s ethos of ‘transparency in innovation’ resonates deeply with me, and I look forward to continuing this approach in the Senior Marketing Manager role.”

3. Leverage Personal Connections and Internal Knowledge

Reference any previous interactions or collaborations with the hiring manager, the department head, or the team you’re looking to join. This personal connection can make your application stand out. Demonstrate your deep understanding of the company’s operations, culture, and goals by mentioning specific company initiatives, values, or missions you’ve been a part of or admire.

“My work on the ‘Green Future’ project with Jane Doe and the Environmental Sustainability team has given me invaluable insights into our department’s goals and challenges. I am particularly proud of our collaboration on reducing our carbon footprint by 20% over the past year. Additionally, in our recent conversation, Jane emphasized the need for continued innovation in our sustainability efforts, which I am eager to support in the new role.”

4. Highlight Specific and Quantifiable Achievements

Use specific and quantifiable examples to illustrate your accomplishments. Be honest, as your information can be verified. Since you’re applying internally, you can highlight any ongoing projects as well. Discuss any internal training, mentorship, or development programs you have participated in and how they have prepared you for the new role.

“Through my role, I have successfully increased our social media engagement by 35% over the last six months. My participation in the ‘Leadership Development Program’ has further equipped me with the skills needed to excel in the Senior Marketing Manager position. During my training sessions, I learned key strategies that are directly applicable to the upcoming initiatives we discussed.”

5. Showcase Cross-Departmental Experience and Transferable Skills

If you are moving to a different department, explain how your current role has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of the company that will benefit the new department. Highlight any cross-departmental projects you’ve been involved in and the transferable skills you’ve developed.

“Working on cross-departmental projects such as the ‘Customer Journey Optimization’ initiative has allowed me to develop a holistic understanding of our company’s operations. These experiences have honed my analytical and problem-solving skills, which I am eager to bring to the Sales Department. My recent discussions with the Sales team highlighted their need for data-driven strategies, a skill set I have refined through these projects.”

6. Demonstrate Leadership and Readiness for Higher Responsibility

For a higher position, focus on your leadership experiences , successes in your current role, and how they demonstrate your readiness for more responsibility. Detail the relevant skills and experiences from your current role that make you a strong candidate, and explain your motivation for the change .

“In my current role, I have led the Digital Transformation team, achieving a 40% increase in online sales within six months. These experiences have not only refined my leadership skills but also prepared me to take on the responsibilities of the Director of Marketing. My motivation to step into this role stems from my commitment to furthering our company’s mission and driving continued success. During my discussions with the executive team, I identified key growth areas that align with my strategic vision for the department.”

7. Demonstrate Motivation for the Job

Showcase your motivation for taking on this job by highlighting your ongoing commitment to the company’s mission, vision, and values. As an internal candidate, leverage your insider knowledge to explain why you enjoy working for the company and how the target position aligns with your long-term career goals . However, don’t just focus on yourself. Explain how your role in the new position will contribute to the company’s strategic objectives . This will demonstrate that you understand the company’s direction and are committed to its success. Example:

“I am genuinely passionate about continuing to contribute to ABC Corporation’s mission of delivering innovative marketing solutions. The Marketing Head role aligns perfectly with my career aspirations, allowing me to leverage my skills in strategic planning while furthering our company’s vision of being a market leader. Over the past five years, I have deeply valued our commitment to sustainability and innovation, which resonates with my own values and work ethic. Being part of a team that prioritizes these principles excites me, and I am eager to contribute to our continued success and growth in this new capacity.”

End your cover letter by thanking the hiring manager for considering your application. Show your gratitude for the opportunities you’ve had to grow in your current role. This will highlight your appreciation for the training and responsibilities you’ve received and how you’ve made the most of them. Finally, express your readiness to discuss the opportunity further or provide any additional information they need to make their decision. Example:

“Thank you very much for your time and the opportunity to be considered for this position. It has been a great privilege working with ABC Company since early in my career, and I look forward to continuing to grow within the company. Please let me know if there is any other information I can provide, and I would be happy to send it your way.”

Sample Cover Letters for Internal Positions  

1. Sample Cover Letter for Internal Promotion 

Download Wo r d Sample | Download PDF Sample

2. Sample Cover Letter for Internal Transfer

Download Word Sample | Download PDF Sample

In this section, we’ll highlight some key tips for crafting a cover letter for an internal position. Unlike external applications, an internal cover letter should focus on your familiarity with the company and underscore your readiness to take on the new role. Let’s see below.

• Familiarize Yourself with the New Role : Use your access to company resources to understand the specifics of the new role. Reach out to HR or the team you’re aiming to join. This will help you tailor your cover letter to address key responsibilities and requirements effectively.
• Focus on the Role: As an internal candidate, emphasize your interest more in the specific position rather than the company itself. Highlight how your current job functions and career goals align with the new role, demonstrating your suitability.
• Leverage Past Collaborations:  If you’ve previously worked with the team or department you’re applying to, highlight these collaborations in your cover letter. This not only shows your acquaintance with the team’s dynamics but also demonstrates your ability to work in the new team.
• Use Internal Recommendations: Include a referral from a trusted colleague or supervisor. A strong recommendation can significantly enhance your application’s credibility and make a positive impression on the hiring manager.
• Maintain Professionalism: Even though you are familiar with the company, keep your tone professional . Treat the cover letter with the same seriousness as you would for an external position.
• Address Any Gaps: If there are skills or experiences you lack for the new role, address them directly. Explain how you plan to quickly acquire these skills or how other aspects of your background compensate for these gaps.
• Show Cultural Fit: Highlight how your values and work style align with the company’s culture. Use examples of how you have thrived in the company’s environment and contributed to its positive culture.

Writing a cover letter for an internal position requires a focused approach. Emphasize your familiarity with the company, highlight your achievements, and illustrate your alignment with the company’s goals. Start with an engaging introduction, detail your accomplishments and relevant skills, and express your motivation for the new role. Use specific examples and maintain a professional tone throughout. We understand how challenging changing jobs can be. If you are looking for professional help, we are here for you .

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How To Create A Cover Letter For An Internal Position

In This Guide:

Cover letter for internal position template, setting the tone, connect your experiences and skills.

Show Gratitude (It's Not About Me, Me, Me)

You've worked hard, put your time in, but now you're looking for something more.

Your dedication and patience have paid off because now you found a new position that you know that you're qualified for.

And best of all: It's inside the company that you're working at.

After seeing how hard you work, your manager may have tapped you on the shoulder for a promotion. Your leadership skills make you the ideal candidate for a management position, and now you need your cover letter to reflect that.

Or maybe you have the drive and ambition to go further than the current position that you're in. You've seen a job opening in another department at your company, and you want to throw your hat in for the position.

Whether you're being promoted or looking for a job that better suits you, your cover letter needs to show that you will excel in the new position that you're applying for.

You have a major leg up on the rest of the competition because you already know the people, vision, and values of the company that you're applying for.

You have your foot in the door, and now all you need to do is pry it open a little more and step in.

We can help you with that.

In this article, you'll learn:

• How to set the tone for a cover letter for an internal position.
• How to connect your experiences and skills to the position that you're applying to.
• How to quantify your achievements at your current job.
• How to show gratitude to your current manager, team members, and the organization for which you work.

While I've got you here, if you're looking to create a cover letter which will wow any hiring manager, Enhancv has over 500 examples of professional cover letters to gain information from.

Upload & Check Your Resume

Drop your resume here or choose a file . PDF & DOCX only. Max 2MB file size.

Dwayne J. Nicole

Marketing Analyst

312-456-5555

[email protected]

Linkedin.com/in/dwayne-nicole

Chicago, April 18, 2022

Bryanna Bartlett

Senior Marketing Director

Northern Electric, Inc.

450 Pullman Road

Chicago, Illinois

Dear Mrs. Bartlett,

As a loyal employee of Northern Electric, I am excited to be interviewing for the position of Marketing Manager in the North-east region. I have worked under Shawn Tuttle for the last few years as a marketing analyst. Shawn has mentored me in the role of customer relationship management for the last three years, and I have grown leaps and bounds in my understanding of how to properly market and sell the products of Northern Electric. I am truly grateful that Shawn has recommended me for this promotion, and I also feel confident that I can excel in this role and help to provide future growth to the company.

I have been with the company for over 10 years, starting out on the sales team. I pride myself on my ability to learn quickly, and I have developed excellent communication skills, with both customers and team members. As well, I create a great rapport with the customers with whom I spoke, making sure that their needs were covered, which can be easily seen in my customer satisfaction which is 97%.

In the last three years working under Shawn, I've gained experience overseeing sales teams, and as a result of my work I have seen my sales team produce a 5% increase in profits this quarter. In fact, under my leadership, we saw sales of our new line of PLC computers grow by almost 10%. Throughout this time, one of the things that differentiated me from other marketing analyst team leaders was that I promoted a holistic view of customer relationships, utilizing Customer Relationship Management software. I gained a special understanding of how to turn inbound leads into clients, all the while prioritizing the needs of the clients.

I've read the job description for the marketing manager of the North-eastern region, and I believe I will excel in the position because I have already performed many of the requirements found within. I have filled leadership positions, and I excelled because I chose a servant leadership model, one in which I chose to lead from the front and take into consideration the needs of other team members.

Thank you for your time and consideration in reviewing my application. My supervisor will be happy to meet with you to shed light on any of the items that I mentioned in this cover letter. Please reach out to me if you need more information about my work experience and technical skills. I would be happy to help with anything that you need.

Dwayne Nicole

Writing a cover letter for an internal position is like reuniting with an old friend.

You are a known entity within your organization .

Good for you! That first step of networking is already out of the way!

It may be even better if you are applying for a new position within your organization which is overseen by your current manager.

And even if you don't have a relationship with your hiring manager, you will have made a name for yourself within the organization. They will know of you, even before you apply for the job.

But before you jump into writing your cover letter, the tone that you use for your letter is incredibly important. Check out the tips below to help craft a cover letter which hits the mark:

Keep The Tone Professional

One of the most important things to keep in mind when writing a cover letter is that it is a formal letter.

An article in the Atlantic states that a cover letter's main purpose, from when it was first introduced in the US in the 1930's, was "to paint a picture that might not easily emerge from the denser material that was, well, under cover."

What a cover letter does is show the hiring manager that you are the most capable, dependable person for the position.

If you want to show that you are the most capable person for the position, keep the tone fairly professional by using these methods:

Properly Format Your Cover Letter Header

By including a properly formatted cover letter header, you show you view this document as a formal, professional letter. Even if you are simply dropping the letter off in your manager's office, be sure to include information like:

• Personal information: your name, your email address, phone number,
• The date you are writing
• The hiring managers information: their name, position in the company, and the address of your company.

If you'd like to see more examples of how to format your cover letter header, check out this article on Enhancv which provides examples and solutions to create a properly formatted cover letter header.

Keep The Body of The Letter Professional

Remember, a cover letter is a document that is addressed to a specific person, usually the hiring manager. Even if you know the hiring manager from your current position, try to keep informalities out of the writing.

Also, try to avoid negative comments about your current manager.

Use Your Cover Letter To Tell a Story

The dominant tone of your cover letter should be geared towards an exploration of your story , with an emphasis on what makes you exceptional, and the ideal candidate to fill this position.

It's hard to sell ourselves. Even those whose current role is in the sales and marketing field may have a difficult time with sharing about what makes us unique.

Many of us have been told from when we were little we shouldn't brag about ourselves.

But I'll tell you that when writing a cover letter, the most important thing you can do is share about your accomplishments, how you've grown as a leader and gained technical skills and abilities.

It's not bragging to explain where you excelled in your position.

Soft Skills Vs. Hard Skills

Soft skills.

Soft skills involve people skills, like communication, leadership, and any habits which make you work better in a team. When you are applying for a promotion, highlight the soft skills that you've gained through your current position, especially those that involve leadership.

Soft skills to promote in your cover letter include:

• Your ability to collaborate within teams
• Your public speaking ability
• Your ability to problem solve
• How you manage your time
• Leadership skills
• Your ability to adapt

Check out this article if you’d like find descriptive words to describe yourself:

The Best Words to Describe Yourself on a Resume

Hard Skills

Alternatively, hard skills are technical skills which you gain through years of experience working in your field, as well as skills that you've gained through school or other courses. If you're considering transferring to another department, highlight relevant technical skills which would make you the perfect fit for that department.

Although hard skills completely depend on the field within which you work, let's look at one example which can help you understand which hard skills to promote. If you are an IT security manager, some hard skills that you could promote include:

• Your knowledge of cloud computing
• How you visualize and create virtual images or maps
• Your experience with IT Security management software
• Your understanding of enterprise architecture management

Highlight Soft Skills For A Promotion

When you write a cover letter for a promotion, you should highlight your experience in a leadership role. Provide examples from your current job of when you've managed teams of colleagues.

Point to quantitative results that you've shown as a leader of a team. If you’ve seen a major sales profits increase while you were the team leader, mention that you were the one leading, encouraging, and facilitating the growth of your team members throughout the process.

Here are some examples which you can use for your cover letter:

• If you were the team lead for a sales team and you saw sales increase in one quarter 6%, highlight those results in your cover letter.
• If you introduced new software which allowed your team to better collaborate on projects, as well as introducing everyone to that software, mention the percentage of people that adopted the software into their regular, everyday work.

Promote Hard Skills for a Transfer

When you're moving laterally within a company, moving from one department to another, you should consider highlighting hard skills that you've learned in your current position, which are transferable to another department.

Transferring is typical within the IT industry, and many of the skills you gain in one position can be transferred to another department.

For example, if you were working in the IT field and you wanted to get to the cyber security field, there are a lot of skills that you may have gained along the way which could be promoted in a cover letter:

• Mention any courses that you've taken throughout your time working in the IT field. Specifically, if you've learned specialized cyber security software, mention the software by name.
• Highlight the role that you may have played in addressing the company's need for greater security of cloud computing programs.

Show Gratitude (It's Not About Me, Me, Me)

In your cover letter, try to give credit to where credit is due. If you're mentioning your current supervisor, highlight the ways in which they have played a major role in making you into the person you are today.

Every single person on this earth can owe their success to a select number of people in their life.

Show gratitude to those that have helped you.

Also, a cover letter is written to a specific person, and therefore, shows some gratitude to the person who is reading the cover letter. Thank the hiring manager for taking the time to read through your cover letter. Ask them if they need any more information from you.

If you're interested in learning more about how to end your cover letter, check out this article on how to end your cover letter .

• Keep the tone of your cover letter professional by including a properly formatted cover letter header.
• When transferring to a new position in your company, use hard technical skills that you've learned to prove your competency.
• When writing a cover letter for promotion, highlight the soft skills that you've learned, like communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
• Show gratitude to your current manager as well as the hiring manager whose reading the document.

Creating a cover letter from scratch isn’t easy. We totally get it! So why not let us help you? At Enhancv, we have a custom Cover Letter Builder which you can use to create the perfect cover letter for an internal position.

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• Career Blog

Cover Letter for Internal Position or Promotion in 2024

When it comes to applying for an internal position or seeking a promotion within your current company, it’s common to assume that your accomplishments and qualifications will speak for themselves. However, a well-crafted cover letter can make all the difference in getting noticed and ultimately landing the job.

In this article, we’ll explore the importance of a cover letter for an internal position or promotion and provide tips and strategies for crafting a standout document. Whether you’re seeking a higher-level position or simply want to transition to a different department, the tips we share can help you showcase your skills and experience in a way that catches the attention of decision-makers.

The purpose of this article is to provide guidance and insights for professionals who are seeking to advance their careers within their current organization. We’ll discuss the key elements of an effective cover letter for an internal position or promotion, such as highlighting relevant experiences and framing your accomplishments in a way that aligns with the values and goals of your company.

With the right approach, your cover letter can showcase your enthusiasm, professionalism, and suitability for the role you’re after. So, let’s dive in!

Understanding the Internal Job Application Process

One of the first things to understand when considering applying for an internal position or promotion is the differences between internal and external applications. Internal candidates have already established a foothold within the company, with knowledge of the company culture, policies, and procedures. External candidates often lack this knowledge, and may take longer to acclimate. Internal candidates may also have the opportunity to showcase their skills and experience, as they have had the opportunity to demonstrate their capabilities while in their current role.

Another important factor to consider is that the internal job application process is typically different than the external process. Internal job applications may require a different set of documents, such as a manager’s recommendation or departmental approval. Additionally, internal candidates may need to go through several rounds of interviews or assessments, as the company wants to be certain that they are the right fit for the role. In contrast, external candidates may be required to complete a more extensive screening process, such as a background check or skills assessment.

Despite the differences in the application process, there are several benefits to applying for an internal position. One of the primary benefits is the opportunity to advance within the company. Internal candidates are already familiar with the organization, its values and goals, and the skills required to succeed. This knowledge makes them uniquely positioned to excel in the new role.

Additionally, applying for an internal position allows the employee to gain new skills and experiences. While in their current role, an employee may have focused on a particular skill set or area of expertise. Moving into a new role can broaden their skill set and provide new challenges and opportunities for growth.

Another benefit of applying for an internal position is the potential for improved work-life balance. Internal candidates are already familiar with the company’s policies and procedures, which can make the transition to a new role smoother and less stressful. This can help to reduce the likelihood of burnout and increase job satisfaction.

Applying for an internal position requires a different set of considerations than applying for an external position. However, the benefits of the internal job application process can be significant, including the opportunity for career advancement, new skills and experiences, and improved work-life balance.

Researching the Company and the Position

Importance of researching the company and the position.

When pursuing an internal position or promotion, conducting thorough research on the company and the specifics of the position is critical. Not only will it demonstrate your interest and commitment to the company, but it will also equip you with vital information to showcase your skills and experience as a candidate. Employers want to see that you have done your homework and understand the company’s values, history, culture, and current goals, as well as how the open position fits into the larger picture.

Moreover, researching the position itself allows you to assess whether it aligns with your career goals and qualifications. You may discover that the position involves different responsibilities or qualifications than you anticipated, or that it’s not precisely what you’re looking for. Additionally, research allows you to tailor your application and cover letter to highlight how your experience, skills, and values align with the position and the company.

Factors to Consider when Researching the Company and the Position

Here are some key factors to consider when researching the company and the position:

Company research:

• Company Values: Understanding a company’s values helps you frame your application and cover letter within the organization’s culture and philosophy.
• Company History: Knowing the history and background of a company can give you insight into the company’s priorities, challenges, and successes.
• Company Goals: Researching a company’s current goals can help you understand its direction and how you can contribute to its success.
• Key Players: Knowing who the key decision-makers are can help you tailor your application to align with their preferences and priorities.
• Current News: Stay up to date on the company’s recent news, developments, awards, and recognition, as you can use this information to tailor your application, cover letter, and interview responses.

Position research:

• Position Requirements: Understanding the necessary skills, qualifications, and responsibilities of the position are critical for customizing your cover letter and resume to highlight how you meet these requirements.
• Job Description: Carefully review the job description to understand the expectations and goals associated with the position.
• Skills and Experience: Consider your skills and experience and how they align with the job requirements. Determine specific examples of past successes and achievements that demonstrate how you could excel in this new role.
• Network: Consider reaching out to current or former employees in the position, the supervisor or other departmental personnel to gather additional information and insights.

Performing thorough research on the company and the position is an essential part of landing an internal job or promotion. With this knowledge, you will be better positioned to demonstrate your qualifications, passion, and commitment to the organization, increasing your chances of securing your desired position.

Understanding the Job Requirements and Qualifications

When it comes to applying for an internal position or promotion, understanding the job requirements and qualifications is crucial. This will help you determine whether you are a good fit for the position and tailor your application accordingly. Here are some tips for analyzing the job requirements and qualifications.

How to analyze the job requirements and qualifications

The first step in analyzing the job requirements and qualifications is to carefully read the job description provided. Take note of the key responsibilities and tasks, as well as the required education, experience, and skills. This will give you a better understanding of what the employer is looking for and what you need to bring to the table.

Next, consider the company culture and values. How can you demonstrate that you are a good fit for the company and the position? Think about your experience, skills, and achievements that align with the company’s mission and values.

Finally, take a look at the qualifications of others who currently hold the position or who have recently been hired for similar positions. This will give you an idea of what the employer is looking for and what you need to bring to the table.

Tips for matching your skills and experience to the job requirements

Once you have a clear understanding of the job requirements and qualifications, it’s time to match your skills and experience to the job. Here are some tips to help you do this effectively:

Identify your strengths: Look at your previous experience, accomplishments, and skills to identify your strengths. How can you use these strengths to excel in the position you are applying for?

Highlight relevant experience: Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have that aligns with the job requirements. This could include previous job duties, projects you have worked on, or skills you have developed.

Show your potential: Don’t be afraid to highlight skills or experiences that may not be a perfect match for the job requirements, but show your potential to succeed in the role. This could include transferable skills or experiences that demonstrate your ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.

Use keywords: Use keywords from the job description in your cover letter and resume to help show the employer that you are a good match for the position.

Understanding the job requirements and qualifications is key to landing an internal position or promotion. By carefully analyzing the job description and matching your skills and experience to the job, you can demonstrate your value to the employer and increase your chances of success.

Tailoring Your Cover Letter for an Internal Position or Promotion

When applying for an internal position or promotion in a company, it’s crucial to tailor your cover letter to demonstrate why you are the best candidate for the job. This is because the hiring manager already knows you and your work to some extent, and you have the opportunity to highlight your relevant skills and experiences within the company. Here are some techniques for customizing your cover letter:

Importance of tailoring your cover letter

Tailoring your cover letter shows that you’re invested in the position and have put effort into your application. It also demonstrates that you understand the company culture, values, and goals. A cover letter for an internal position or promotion is not just a formality, but an opportunity to showcase your strengths and achievements within the company.

When tailoring your cover letter, it’s important to focus on your specific accomplishments and how they align with the requirements of the position. Use this as an opportunity to highlight your relevant experiences and successes, and how they make you the ideal candidate for the role.

Techniques for customizing your cover letter

One effective technique for customizing your cover letter is to use specific examples and achievements of your work within the company. For example, if you’re applying for a management position, you could mention how you successfully led a team or implemented a new process that improved productivity. Use specific metrics and figures where possible to illustrate your accomplishments.

Another technique is to mention your familiarity with the company culture and values. Highlight how your work aligns with the company’s vision and mission, and demonstrate how you would continue to contribute to achieving those goals in the new position.

Lastly, don’t simply assume that the hiring manager knows everything about you. Provide context and background information about yourself and your experience, especially if it’s relevant to the new position. You want to show that you’ve taken the initiative to tailor your cover letter and that you are the best candidate for the job.

Tailoring your cover letter for an internal position or promotion is vital. Customize your cover letter to showcase your experiences and achievements within the company and demonstrate how you would excel in the new position. Show that you understand the company culture, values, and goals, and take the opportunity to provide context where necessary. By putting effort into your application, you stand a much better chance of securing the internal position or promotion.

Format and Structure of a Cover Letter for an Internal Position or Promotion

If you’re applying for an internal position or promotion within your company, it’s important to know the proper format and structure for your cover letter. The way you present yourself and your qualifications can greatly impact your chances of getting the job.

Guidelines for the Format and Structure of a Cover Letter

Here are some guidelines to follow when creating your cover letter:

Use a professional format:  Your cover letter should be formatted like a professional business letter. Use a font that is easy to read and keep your letter to one page.

Address your cover letter appropriately:  Address your letter to the appropriate person, such as the hiring manager or HR representative.

Include a subject line:  Clearly state the purpose of your letter in the subject line, such as “Application for [Position Name].” This will ensure that your letter is quickly understood and routed to the correct person.

Include a clear introduction and conclusion:  Your introduction should state the purpose of your letter and your enthusiasm for the position. Your conclusion should summarize your qualifications and express your desire to further discuss the opportunity.

Highlight your accomplishments and qualifications:  Use the body of your letter to showcase your skills, accomplishments, and qualifications. Be sure to mention any relevant experience and education that you have.

Use a friendly and professional tone:  Your tone should be friendly, yet professional. Avoid using overly formal language or slang.

Tips for Organizing Your Content for Maximum Impact

To ensure that your cover letter makes a strong impression, consider these tips for organizing your content:

Focus on the employer’s needs:  Tailor your letter to the specific job requirements and company culture.

Use bullet points to highlight key information:  Bullet points can help to draw attention to important qualifications or achievements.

Use numbers to demonstrate quantifiable achievements:  Employers like to see concrete examples of your accomplishments, so use statistics when possible.

Provide evidence to support your claims:  Back up your statements with examples from your past work experience.

Be concise and to the point:  Employers receive many applications, so make your points quickly and clearly.

By following these guidelines and tips, you can create a cover letter that showcases your qualifications and makes a strong case for why you should be considered for an internal position or promotion.

Opening Paragraph of Your Cover Letter

Purpose of the opening paragraph.

The opening paragraph of your cover letter serves as your chance to make a great first impression on the reader. In just a few short sentences, you need to accomplish several key things:

• Introduce yourself and state why you are writing
• Highlight the position you are interested in and how you learned about it
• Grab the reader’s attention and make them want to keep reading

Keep in mind that your opening paragraph should be concise and to the point – a lengthy introduction may turn the reader off and make them less interested in what you have to say.

Techniques for grabbing the reader’s attention

To make your opening paragraph stand out, consider using one or more of the following techniques:

• Start with a bold statement or question that sets the tone for the rest of the letter
• Use a personal anecdote or story that highlights your passion for the position or industry
• Mention a recent accomplishment or achievement that demonstrates your qualifications for the position
• Use statistics or other data to showcase your knowledge of the company or industry

No matter which technique you choose, remember to keep your language clear and professional, and avoid using clichés or overused phrases. With the right opening paragraph, you can set yourself apart from other applicants and demonstrate why you are the best candidate for the job.

Middle Paragraphs of Your Cover Letter

When writing the middle paragraphs of your cover letter for an internal position or promotion, the main purpose is to showcase your related experience, skills, and achievements that make you the best candidate for the position.

To ensure that your strengths and accomplishments stand out in the middle paragraphs, follow these tips:

• Provide specific examples of your achievements in your current role and how they have helped the company succeed.
• Demonstrate how your skills and experience are relevant to the position you are applying for.
• Use action verbs to describe your accomplishments and show how you have made a positive impact in your previous roles.
• Show your enthusiasm for the position and the company by explaining why you are interested in the opportunity.
• If you have relevant education or certifications, highlight them in this section of your cover letter.

Remember to keep your middle paragraphs concise and focused on your qualifications for the position.

Closing Paragraph of Your Cover Letter

The purpose of the closing paragraph in your cover letter is to leave a lasting impression on the reader and reinforce your interest in the position you are applying for. It is your final opportunity to communicate your enthusiasm and qualifications for the role.

To express your enthusiasm and interest in the position, consider using the following techniques:

Reiterate your qualifications and experiences that make you a strong candidate for the role. For example, mention specific skills or accomplishments that align with the job requirements.

Highlight your motivation for applying to this role and what you would bring to the team. For instance, you may express your passion for the company’s mission or values and how you see yourself contributing to its growth and success.

Express your eagerness to further discuss your qualifications and fit for the role. You may suggest a follow-up conversation or express your willingness to answer any additional questions.

Remember, the closing paragraph is your final opportunity to make a positive impression on the reader. Use this section to convey your enthusiasm and qualifications confidently and clearly, and demonstrate how you can add value to the organization.

Writing a cover letter for an internal position or promotion requires a strategic approach. By highlighting your relevant experiences and qualifications, expressing your interest and enthusiasm, and showcasing the value you would bring to the team, you can increase your chances of standing out and landing the role.

Avoiding Common Cover Letter Mistakes

When it comes to writing a cover letter for an internal position or promotion, there are several common mistakes that you should avoid. These mistakes can hurt your chances of getting the job you want. In this section, we will discuss the most common mistakes you should avoid and provide tips for proofreading and editing your cover letter.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not tailoring your cover letter to the job: If you are applying for an internal position or promotion, it is important to tailor your cover letter to the job you are applying for. You should highlight your relevant skills and experience that make you the best candidate for the job.

Focusing too much on your current role: When writing your cover letter, it is important to focus on the skills and experience that are relevant to the job you are applying for. Don’t only talk about your current role, but also include any relevant experience you have outside of your current role.

Being too generic: A generic cover letter won’t be as effective as one that is tailored to the job. You should use specific examples that demonstrate your skills and experience.

Making mistakes: Spelling and grammar mistakes can make a bad impression on the hiring manager. Make sure you proofread your cover letter carefully.

Tips for Proofreading and Editing Your Cover Letter

Take a break: After you have written your cover letter, take a break before you proofread it. This will help you come back to the letter with fresh eyes.

Read it out loud: Reading your cover letter out loud can help you catch mistakes you might have missed while reading silently.

Use spell check: While spell check is not always perfect, it can catch many common spelling and grammar mistakes.

Get a second opinion: Ask someone you trust to read your cover letter and provide feedback. They may catch mistakes you missed or provide suggestions for improvement.

By avoiding common mistakes and carefully proofreading and editing your cover letter, you can increase your chances of getting the internal position or promotion you want.

Sample Cover Letter for an Internal Position or Promotion

If you’re interested in applying for an internal position or promotion, a cover letter is a great way to demonstrate your interest, enthusiasm, and qualifications. Below is a step-by-step analysis of a sample cover letter, as well as tips for adapting it to your situation.

Step-by-Step Analysis

Introduction.

The introduction of the cover letter should grab the reader’s attention and establish your interest in the position. The sample cover letter begins with a direct statement: “I am excited to apply for the open [position] role in [department].” This immediately communicates that the writer is interested in the position and is a compelling way to begin the letter.

Body Paragraphs

The body of the cover letter should expand on your qualifications and demonstrate why you are the right fit for the position. The sample cover letter does an excellent job of highlighting the writer’s past experience and achievements. For example, the writer describes their experience working in a similar role and outlines their ability to collaborate with others and achieve results.

Another essential aspect of the body paragraphs is demonstrating your knowledge of the company and the position. In the sample cover letter, the writer notes that they have an understanding of the company’s goals and culture, which is a great way to demonstrate their interest in the position.

The conclusion of the cover letter should summarize your qualifications, express your excitement about the position, and provide a call to action. In the sample cover letter, the writer reiterates their qualifications and their enthusiasm for the position. They also provide a specific request for action: “I would love the opportunity to discuss my application with you in more detail in an interview.”

Tips for Adapting the Sample Cover Letter to Your Situation

Customize the introduction.

When adapting the sample cover letter to your situation, it’s essential to customize the introduction to reflect your interest in the position. Be sure to name the specific position you are applying for and the department you are interested in working in.

Highlight Relevant Experience

One of the most important things to do when applying for an internal position or promotion is to highlight your relevant experience. Be sure to describe past projects, achievements, and anything else that showcases your ability to succeed in the role you are applying for.

Show Your Knowledge of the Company

Demonstrating your understanding of the company’s goals and culture is another way to show your interest in the position. Referencing specific company initiatives or goals in your cover letter can show that you are committed to the organization’s success.

Be Clear About Your Goals

Finally, be clear about your professional goals and why you are interested in the position or promotion. Discussing your career aspirations and how they align with the new role can be a compelling way to demonstrate your enthusiasm and dedication.

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Internal Position cover letter example

Cover letter header

Cover letter greeting, cover letter introduction, cover letter middle part (body), how to close a copywriter cover letter (conclusion and sign-off).

When you are applying for an internal position, you might not think that you need a cover letter as everyone knows you, but as you will likely be going up against external applicants it is useful to submit a comparable cover letter and resume. Your internal position cover letter may blow the others out of the water, but you still need to make your case.

This cover letter example and guide will look at the essential aspects of writing an internal position cover letter. What should you emphasize when you are up against both internal and external applicants? Write it as if you would for any other job, but with enough insider advantages to give you the edge. Here is what we will cover:

• How to structure the internal position cover letter – what to include
• How to weave your story in the intro, middle part and conclusion
• Common mistakes to make – don’t fall into these traps

Resume.io shares over 180 cover letter examples and professional guides that offer tips and advice for job seekers. Our examples are relevant to any internal position in any industry. Just make it hyper company specific and the hiring manager will stick closer to home.

Best format for an internal position cover letter

The format of an internal position cover letter should not differ from a normal cover letter. You are not asking for special privileges because you are an internal applicant – you simply want to prove that you are the best person for the job. Therefore, the playing field should be level. The typical format should include:

• The cover letter header
• The greeting / salutation
• The cover letter intro
• The middle paragraphs (the body)
• The final paragraph of your cover letter

You should not only tell your current employment stories in your cover letter – there may well be previous experiences that could be useful for your new internal job. Mix it up. Your employers will know about your current accomplishments, but it may well be that your previous achievements add to your application more than you might think. You are applying for a new role, after all, so you need to think about all the new requirements.

Look at our comprehensive cover letter guide for more general advice on writing the cover letter – pick some of the functions that are closest to what you do.

The internal position cover letter samples below may offer some ideas.

The header of an internal position cover letter should be practical with a basic design. You do not need to impress your employer with formatting and visual tricks – they know you. You do, however, still need to include your full name, personal (not work) email address and your personal (not work) mobile number. It is important to ensure equality for all job applicants, so any attempt at currying favor should be avoided. You are just another applicant, but an applicant with an insane amount of relevant experience. See the cover letter header on our internal position cover letter example for more ideas.

Goal of the cover letter header: Include your contact details in the cover letter header as well as the resume. Keep work contact details off your internal position cover letter.

There is no chance that you can get this section wrong. Some applicants may not know the identity of the hiring manager and wonder what they should write in the cover letter greeting, but for an internal position it is clear. Always stick with the more formal “Dear” rather than addressing the hiring manager by their first name, though. Your cover letter is still a formal employment document, so it should retain a certain sense of distance and respect. Check out the greeting from our cover letter example below.

Goal of letter greeting: Get the spelling right and use their surname rather than first name. The interview might be informal, but your internal position cover letter should not be.

Dear Ms. Tilling,

The introduction should hit hard at the value that you will bring to your new role. Justify the move with your previous successes, but you will also likely have a host of new responsibilities so show that you possess other skills from previous roles and projects to ensure success. It is good if you can surprise the hiring manager: “Oh, I didn’t know that they had done that?!” Sharing your motivation for the move is an important consideration as starting a new position will not be easy and require significant efforts. See the introduction from our cover letter example below.

Goal of the cover letter introduction: Share why you fit the role, be hyper-specific if possible, and consider any core motivations for the new move.

I would like to apply for an internal position as department manager in Home Galore’s new Long Island location. I have been working at the Powlson store for the past five years (with two as homewares department manager) and would be interested in the new store as it is 50 minutes closer to my home.

The middle part, or body, of an internal position cover letter is where you need to share your most relevant examples. It doesn’t matter if they are from your current employer or a previous role – you simply need to prove that you are the best applicant. It does help to hint that you have insider knowledge and the associated benefits, but do not solely rely on this.

Share some personality with a hiring manager that might not know you so well and make sure that you drop a name or two in terms of people who know you well and can give a good character reference. Minimizing risk is important in recruitment, so if a hiring manager can have a chat about you to someone who knows you well, it will improve your chances. Below you’ll find the middle part of our cover letter sample.

Goal of the cover letter middle part: Show just how seamlessly you would fit in, share some previous experiences that might be unknown and offer a hint of personality.

I would enjoy the opportunity of working on a new store start-up and know a few of the new management team. Peter Harrison has told me to write a letter to signal my interest in the internal move and I also have the approval of my current boss Heather Witt. I have a track record in developing and training employees across all departments and realize that with 75 percent new employees, this would be an essential activity. Having a core of department managers with company experience is critical for success. Taking on an internal position as department manager would also facilitate cooperation across local stores. I know the regional management teams well and would feel comfortable in leveraging diverse expertise from across the company. There are various merchandising challenges that need to be considered in such a big store and as the seasonal category comes under homewares, I have specific ideas of how we might run promotions. My summer seasonal sales were the best out of the entire company last year.

The close of a cover letter would normally be a call to action for an interview, but as an internal position applicant you know that this is guaranteed. It would therefore seem strange to say that you hope to get an interview, but not that you are looking forward to finding out more. The close of a cover letter is also a great chance to drop one more name who is sure to give you a glowing reference. You’ll find the conclusion of our cover letter sample below.

Goal of the conclusion: Close on a positive note and say that you are looking forward to the next steps. Ask your referee before you mention their name in the cover letter.

I would welcome the chance to meet the new management team and I understand that Heather Witt has already composed a letter of recommendation. Sincerely, Taylor Bartley

Mistakes to Avoid in an Internal Position Cover Letter

While the content of your internal position cover letter might make it clear that you are the right person for the role, there are a few mistakes that could crop up to derail your application. They are all quite basic, but don’t relax. Check and double check for accuracy.

• Grammatical and spelling errors: Typos and grammar errors are easily avoided by using an online checker such as Grammarly. Lack of attention to detail is a bad sign in most roles, so don’t rush the application assuming that the job is yours anyway.
• Use company where possible: While you might write other cover letters in a certain tone, adopt the language and tone that you would use in all internal correspondence. You don’t need to “seem” like one of the family, you are one of the family.
• Keep it formal: While most internal email correspondence may verge on the informal side, the application could be viewed by any number of senior management, so keep the register formal. Your language will always be compared to external applicants.

An attractive and well-organized cover letter helps the hiring manager see you as the most promising choice. If you don’t have time to fuss with the formatting, consider using a professionally-designed cover letter template.

Key takeaways

• Apply to an internal position like you would any other role
• Follow the job description carefully – include information from past roles
• Speak the language of your company, but keep it on the formal side
• Drop names of internal people who are happy to put in a good word for you

Check out our other related cover letter examples for even more writing and formatting tips:

• Career change cover letter example
• Volunteer cover letter sample

Free professionally designed templates

Free Internal Position Cover Letter & Writing Tips

The right cover letter could help you land a great internal position or promotion. Follow our tips for writing a great internal position cover letter.

Our customers have been hired by: * Foot Note

Why do you need a cover letter for an internal position?

Providing a cover letter for an internal job application has the same purpose as providing a cover letter for any other position in your job search—to provide context and a persuasive argument about your suitability for the role.

While the reason behind providing a cover letter for an internal position is the same as the main reason for including one in any other job application, the way you write your internal position letter will be a bit different.

An effective internal position cover letter should highlight not just your resume skills and experience but also how you have already benefited your employer. This could persuade them that offering you an internal promotion would be better than hiring an external candidate.

Featured internal position cover letter example

Use this international position cover letter template as base for your own and edit it in our Cover Letter Builder .

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Free internal position cover letter example.

If you have never written a cover letter for an internal position, reading examples that are relevant to your field can be helpful. Consider this internal position cover letter:

Dear Mr. Johnson,

As a longtime employee of [current company name], moving into the marketing department has been one of my main career goals. In my position as sales manager on the shop floor, I have consistently met and exceeded targets. Last quarter I generated sales 10% above the average rate. While I enjoy my current role immensely, I feel that I would be the ideal candidate for the role of marketing associate. Thanks to my extensive work experience in customer-focused roles, I have an intimate understanding of what our customers want.

Since beginning my career with [current company name], I have demonstrated my ability to work flexibly in teams and on my own. In my current job, I have developed excellent communication skills, honed my sales skills, and displayed creative problem-solving skills that will be useful in a marketing role. Furthermore, I have collaborated extensively with the marketing department on the campaign for [latest product]. In my free time, I have undertaken a part-time course and now have a marketing certification.

After reading the requirements for the marketing associate job opening, I am confident that the skills I have developed and my understanding of our customer base make me ideal for this job title. My supervisor has indicated that they would be happy to discuss my performance in the sales department and can attest to my skills. I look forward to discussing the requirements of this new position with you.

Yours sincerely, [Full Name]

Tips for writing your internal position cover letter

As you can see, this is a good example of a professional cover letter for an internal job posting. The precise details are not applicable to every field of employment, but there are features that can be applied to any situation. Implement the key features of this example to create the best cover letter for the specific job title you aim to gain, following these three crucial points:

Highlight major achievements

This cover letter example opens with a direct and specific example of one of the job seeker’s achievements. The cover letter also connects this achievement and the hard skills and soft skills of their current role to the needs of the job.

Focus on how you’ve already benefited the company, and can continue doing so in the new position

The middle paragraph of this cover letter example focuses on how the job seeker can benefit their employer more in a new role. The job seeker makes this case persuasively by discussing relevant experiences and what they have done to gain the skills needed for this role.

Present a strong call to action

This cover letter example has a strong call to action that takes the form of a professional assumption. The job seeker states that they “look forward to speaking” with the recruiter rather than saying that they “hope” to speak with them. This confidence can be beneficial and help you stand out from the crowd.

A good cover letter is one that puts your best qualities forward from the first paragraph. These features will elevate your cover letter, but the quality of your writing and a professional appearance will also help. If you want to write your perfect cover letter, use active language, create a personalized salutation, keep your sentences short and format your cover letter to professional standards.

For more cover letter writing tips, check our How to Write a Cover Letter article.

FAQ: Internal position cover letter examples

Have questions? We’re here to help.

Do I really need a cover letter to get an internal position?

Yes. Even though you may know the hiring manager in question you should still treat this as you would an external job application and provide a cover letter. A promotion cover letter is your opportunity to supplement your resume and show the hiring manager what you have been doing inside the company during your employment.

How long should my cover letter be to get an internal position job?

The ideal cover letter length is three-quarters of a page. You can expand this to one full page if you need to, but less is better, as recruiters are short on time.

How do I talk about my experience when I’m looking to get hired internally?

You should do the same thing you usually would when writing about your employment history in a cover letter, but spend more time talking about your current position and how you have benefited the company in your time there.

Couldn't find the answer you're looking for?

You can always contact us.

Donna is a career expert with extensive experience in the fields of Marketing, Publishing, Direct Mail and Communications. She’s witnessed firsthand the importance of a powerful resume and cover letter to a job search, so she takes great pride in helping change the lives of job seekers by sharing expert career advice and tips to help land the perfect job.

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Cover Letter Example for Applying for Multiple Jobs

Should You Apply for Multiple Jobs at a Company?

Tips for writing a cover letter for two jobs at a company, sample cover letter applying for two jobs, more cover letter examples.

When you're excited about a company, you may want to apply to several different positions there. But what kind of impression does that leave with potential employers? There are times when applying to multiple positions at the same company could make a job seeker seem desperate—or worse, unqualified—for any of the positions. 

That's not always the case, however. 

Find out more about when applying for multiple jobs at a company is a good idea. Also, see a cover letter example for applying for multiple jobs within the same company. 

Applying for different positions in a company is effective if you are truly qualified for the positions you're applying to. If you are a strong candidate for all the positions, it makes sense to apply to them.

Applying to multiple positions at the same company can be a good option for people at the start of their careers. That is, if a company has multiple entry-level positions available, it's possible that you're equally qualified for all of them. 

Another factor you must consider is the size of the company. If it is a large company, then there's a good chance you won't get the same hiring manager reviewing each application. Therefore, there is no harm in applying for multiple jobs. At a small company, however, it's more likely that the same hiring manager will see your application for multiple jobs.

If you're applying for multiple positions at a company, try to limit yourself and be realistic. Applying to two or three positions you qualify for is acceptable, but submitting your  resume  for every single position listed can be a turnoff to hiring managers, and a poor use of your own time. 

Not sure what to do? Ask for advice: Reach out to a mentor, a trusted colleague, or other career connections for help thinking through the best option. 

Some people recommend applying to one job at a time and, if you don't hear back and some time has passed, applying for another position later. However, there's a chance that the jobs may be gone by the time you're ready to apply again. 

Anytime you're considering applying for multiple roles at the same company, you'll have to weigh the potential risks and benefits. 

When applying to two or more jobs at a company, you will typically submit separate resumes and cover letters for each job. Every resume and cover letter should be tailored to fit the specific job listing. For each job application,include  keywords  related to the specific job.

However, if you are allowed to only submit one job application to the company, or the two jobs are in the same department and are similar, you might consider writing one cover letter for two or more jobs.

When doing this, you need to keep a few things in mind:

Address the Right Person

Since you are submitting your cover letter to two jobs, two separate people might be looking at the cover letter. In your salutation, be sure to address all of the people who will be reading your cover letter (or use a general phrase such as  “To Whom It May Concern” ). This way, you will not appear to be emphasizing your interest in one job over the other.

Express Your Qualifications for Both Jobs

Be sure to explain why you are qualified for both jobs. Consider writing one paragraph mentioning your skills and experiences for one job, and another paragraph for the other job. 

Another option (if the two jobs are related) is to list your skills and experience that apply to both jobs.

Express Enthusiasm for the Company

Clearly state your interest in the company, so that the hiring managers understand your interest. Perhaps include a paragraph that states why you think you are a good fit for the company generally. Include keywords from the  company website  in this paragraph. 

Also emphasize how you can benefit the company—explain that you hope to add value to the company in either of these jobs.

The following is a cover letter example applying for two positions at the same company. Download the cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

Cover Letter Example Applying for Two Jobs (Text Version)

Zach Applicant 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 555-555-5555 zach.applicant@email.com

July 19, 2021

Manfred Lee Chief Technology Officer WebTech Solutions 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321

Dear Mr. Lee:

Your IT department has advertised two job openings for which my experience directly qualifies me. My nuclear power experience would translate well into the chemical industry. Both industries endure extreme regulatory pressure for environmental impact. I am highly knowledgeable and familiar with this kind of regulatory environment, and I recognize how vital IT is for the record-keeping that is necessary for dealing with that kind of scrutiny.

My IT experience gives me a unique ability to apply technology, in all its forms, to business processes. Some of the business process knowledge includes accounting, finance, facilities, inventory control, budgeting, vendor management, and various operational processes.

I have experience with merger/acquisition events, high growth challenges, technology replacement projects, and IT process improvement. I have delivered large technology projects on schedule/on budget, and in alignment with the business strategy. Companies I have worked for include Dakil Energy, Hoppy Rent a Car, Digit Equipment, and Miners Gas and Electric.

I would appreciate an opportunity to talk with you or someone in your organization to see where my skill set would be of the greatest benefit to your company. I know I could be a great asset to your department.

Signature  (hard copy letter)

Zach Applicant 

 Review more  cover letter templates  and examples of  cover letters for a variety of different types of jobs , types of job seekers, and types of job applications.