A project manager cover letter is a document that accompanies your resume and highlights your skills, qualifications, and experience relevant to the position of a project manager. 

It is an essential tool that helps you stand out from the competition and increase your chances of being called for an interview.

In this article, we will discuss what a project manager cover letter is, why it is essential, what it should include, and provide you with an example cover letter and tips on how to write an effective one.

What is a project manager's cover letter?

A project manager cover letter is a one-page document that serves as an introduction to your resume. It is an opportunity for you to showcase your qualifications and experience that make you the ideal candidate for the project manager position you are applying for. The cover letter should be tailored to the specific job you are applying for and should highlight your strengths and achievements.

Why is a project manager's cover letter necessary?

A project manager cover letter is essential for several reasons:

• It introduces you to the employer: Your cover letter is the first thing the employer will see, so making an excellent first impression is essential. A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out from the competition and catch the employer's attention.
• It highlights your qualifications: Your cover letter should highlight your relevant qualifications and experience that make you the ideal candidate for the project manager position. It should show the employer you have the skills and knowledge they seek.
• It shows your interest in the position: Your cover letter should demonstrate your enthusiasm for the work and the company. It should show the employer you have researched and are genuinely interested in the job.

What should a project manager cover letter include?

• A strong opening: Your opening should grab the employer's attention and make them want to read more. You can start with a strong statement: "I am writing to express my interest in the project manager position at XYZ company."
•  A project manager's cover letter should include your qualifications: Your cover letter should highlight your qualifications and experience that make you the ideal candidate for the project manager position. This can consist of your education, certifications, and relevant work experience.
• Your cover letter should showcase your achievements and successes as a project manager. This can include projects you have managed, awards you have won, and other accomplishments.
• Your skills: Your cover letter should highlight the skills that make you an effective project manager. This can include your leadership, communication, problem-solving, and other relevant skills.
• Your enthusiasm: Your cover letter should demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position and the company. This can include why you are interested in the job, what you know about the company, and what you can bring to the team.
• A strong closing: Your closing should leave a lasting impression on the employer. Again, you can express your enthusiasm for the position and thank them for considering your application. You can also include your contact information and invite them to contact you for further discussion.

Example project manager cover letter

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the project manager position at XYZ company. With my strong background in project management, I have the skills and experience necessary to excel in this role.

I am a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) with over seven years of experience managing complex projects from start to finish. As a project manager at ABC company, I have successfully worked on projects in the healthcare and education sectors, resulting in significant cost savings and improved efficiency.

As a project manager at DEF company, I led a team of five project managers. I oversaw the successful completion of multiple projects, including a major software implementation project completed on time and within budget.

My leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills have allowed me to effectively manage cross-functional teams and deliver high-quality projects. I can bring these skills and experiences to the project manager position at XYZ company.

I am excited about working with a company committed to innovation and excellence. I have researched XYZ company and am impressed by your work in the technology industry. I am particularly interested in the company's focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to the success of XYZ company as a project manager. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Tips for writing an effective project manager cover letter

• Customise your cover letter: Your cover letter should be tailored to the specific job you are applying for. Research the company and the position and customise your cover letter accordingly.
• Highlight your achievements: Your cover letter should showcase your success as a project manager. Provide specific examples of projects you have managed and the results you achieved.
• Emphasise your skills: Your cover letter should highlight the skills that make you an effective project manager. Focus on skills such as leadership, communication, problem-solving, and teamwork.
• Show your enthusiasm: Your cover letter should demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position and the company. Show that you have researched the company and why you are interested in the job.
• Keep it concise: Your cover letter should be one page or less. Keep your paragraphs short and to the point.
• Use keywords from the job description in your cover letter to show that you have read and understand the position's requirements.
• Proofread: Make sure to proofread your cover letter for spelling and grammar errors. Ask a friend or colleague to review it as well.

A project manager cover letter is essential to help you stand out from the competition and increase your chances of being called for an interview. 

It should highlight your qualifications, achievements, and skills that make you the ideal candidate. 

By customising your cover letter and showing your enthusiasm for the job and the company, you can make a strong impression on the employer and increase your chances of landing the job.

FAQs

What should I include in my project manager's cover letter?

Your project manager cover letter should include your qualifications, achievements, and skills that make you the ideal candidate. It should be customised to the specific job you are applying for and should demonstrate your enthusiasm for the job and the company.

How long should my project manager's cover letter be?

Your project manager's cover letter should be one page or less. Keep your paragraphs short and to the point.

What skills should I emphasise in my project manager cover letter?

You should emphasise skills such as leadership, communication, problem-solving, and teamwork in your project manager's cover letter.

How can I make my project manager's cover letter stand out?

To make your project manager's cover letter stand out, customise it to the specific job you are applying for, highlight your achievements, emphasise your skills, show your enthusiasm for the job and the company, use keywords from the job description, and proofread it for spelling and grammar errors.

Should I include references in my project manager's cover letter?

You should not include references in your project manager's cover letter. If the employer wants references, they will ask for them separately.