Product Manager Cover Letter Sample and Tips from HR Pros

When applying for a new job as a product manager, you will need a powerful resume. However, this is not always enough. Today, a lot of hiring managers also expect to see a strong cover letter as part of your job application. This way, they can learn what has motivated you to apply for a job with their company and evaluate your commitment and interest in the job.

Writing a good cover letter is not always easy — but we are here to help.

In this article, we will share with you some of the best practices for writing a cover letter, what your cover letter should include and also provide a sample product manager cover letter that you can use as a base for when writing your own cover letter.

Here’s what we’ll look into:

• What is a cover letter and why do you need it
• What to include in your cover letter
• Tips for writing a strong cover letter that will make a good impression on your potential employer
• A product manager cover letter example that you can use to create your own cover letter

Let’s get started.

For tips on how to write a powerful product manager resume, check out Product Manager Resume Sample and Tips from HR Pros.

Why do you need a cover letter?

As we’ve mentioned above, a cover letter is a great opportunity to provide some extra information to the hiring manager that might help them choose you for the position.

A cover letter should explain your motivation for applying for the job and why you are the best candidate. It shouldn’t repeat the information you have in your resume but rather emphasize it. You can pick your most notable skills and achievements and highlight them in your cover letter by explaining how they will be useful in the job you are applying for.

In short, a cover letter provides extra space for making your case and convincing the hiring manager to choose you.

What to include in a cover letter?

It’s essential that you tailor your cover letter to the position you are applying for. However, there are several sections that are general must-haves for most cover letters. Let’s take a quick look.

Cover letter header

At the top of your cover letter, add your contact information. This includes your name, professional credentials, phone number and email. Adding an address is optional.

It’s also a good idea to add links to your professional social media, website or portfolio — if you have them.

Cover letter greeting

Just like any other letter, start your cover letter with a greeting. It’s best if you can address the hiring manager by name. If you don’t know their name, try finding it out. You can check the company’s website or social media for the name of the person responsible for the hiring process. If you still can’t find it, consider calling the reception and asking for the name of the HR manager.

If you didn’t succeed in finding the name, you can start the letter with something like “Dear Hiring Team” or “Dear Hiring Manager”. It’s best to avoid “To whom it may concern” as this form of address is considered to be outdated.

Cover letter introduction

The introduction of your cover letter, its first paragraph, should get the HR manager interested in reading the rest of your letter. Here, you can explain your motivation for applying for the job or mention your most relevant skills and qualifications.

Cover letter middle paragraphs

After a powerful introduction, go on to elaborate on what value you can bring to the company. Emphasize that the skill set you already have aligns perfectly with what the hiring manager is looking for.

In the next paragraph or two, try to illustrate that you are familiar with the responsibilities and challenges that the position holds. Explain that you are well-prepared to handle them. It’s great if you could provide examples from your previous employment that demonstrate the necessary skills.

Try not to use vague language and abstract phrases. Instead, focus on giving specific examples, numbers and references to show why you are the right person for the job.

This section of your cover letter shouldn’t be too long. Keep to just two or three paragraphs. Focus on the most important points and get rid of any generalities.

Cover letter conclusion and sign-off

You should end your cover letter with a call to action. This can be a note on when you will be ready to start the new job. Or, you can say that you will be waiting for feedback on your application. You can also thank the hiring manager for their time.

Cover letter signature

For your cover letter signature, you can repeat the same information you’ve used in the header. Or, you can add an additional way to contact you.

Tips for writing a product manager cover letter

There are several best practices that you should keep to when writing your cover letter.

• First, as we’ve mentioned above, do not repeat the same information you have in your resume in your cover letter. Use the cover letter to highlight and emphasize your most valued skills.
• Second, do not send the same cover letter to multiple potential employers. Your cover letter should be a tailored statement of interest for a specific position in a specific company. “Mass-producing” cover letters can work strongly against you.
• And third, keep your cover letter short and to the point. Avoid using vague language and generalities. Mention as many specifics as you can and back up your achievements and skills by examples and numbers.

Product manager cover letter example

Summing things up

Here are some key takeaways from today’s article.

• A clever letter is an important part of your cover letter and shouldn’t be omitted.
• Make sure your cover letter has these elements: your contact information, greeting, main body where you emphasize why you are the best choice for the job, a call to action and a sign-off.
• Add a link to your professional social media to give the employer an extra chance to get to know you better.
• Tailor your cover letter to the job you are applying for and make sure it reflects what the hiring company is looking for.

Learn more about how to write a cover letter.

Recruitment specialist

Samantha Goode

Samantha Goode is an HR practitioner who also has a background in marketing. She specializes in diversity training in the workplace and wants to share her knowledge by writing meaningful and compelling blog posts. During the weekends, you’ll find Sam in hole-in-the-wall cafes.