What makes this cover letter great
This cover letter is a strong example because it is tailored to the Industrial Designer role, clearly aligns the candidate’s skills and experience with the job requirements, and provides specific, quantifiable achievements. It highlights relevant technical proficiencies, demonstrates a passion for the field, and references a prestigious industry award. The letter is concise, well-organized, and shows enthusiasm for the company’s mission. It also effectively balances technical expertise with creativity and teamwork.
Cover letter example for Industrial Designer
Strong cover letter
I am excited to apply for the Industrial Designer position, as my background in product design, user-centered research, and 3D modeling aligns well with your company's innovative approach. With a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design from the Rhode Island School of Design and over four years of experience designing consumer electronics and home goods, I have developed a strong foundation in concept development, prototyping, and cross-functional collaboration.
In my previous role at Innovate Design Group, I led the design of a modular kitchen appliance line, from initial sketches through to final CAD models and manufacturing handoff. My responsibilities included conducting user research, creating mood boards, developing ergonomic prototypes, and presenting concepts to stakeholders. I am proficient in SolidWorks, Rhino, KeyShot, and Adobe Creative Suite, and have experience with rapid prototyping tools such as 3D printers and CNC machines.
I am passionate about sustainable design and have worked on projects that incorporate recycled materials and energy-efficient manufacturing processes. My ability to balance aesthetics, functionality, and manufacturability has resulted in several successful product launches and a Red Dot Design Award in 2022.
I am eager to bring my creativity, technical skills, and collaborative spirit to your team, and I look forward to contributing to the development of innovative products that enhance user experiences.
Weak cover letter
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to apply for the Industrial Designer job. I have a degree in design and have worked on some projects in the past. I know how to use some design software and am interested in working for your company. I am a hard worker and hope to hear from you soon.
Thank you for your time.
Cover letter best practices
Tailor Each Cover Letter to being a Industrial Designer
Avoid generic letters. Customize your content to reflect the specific job description, company values, and how your experience aligns with their needs.
Use a Professional Format
Stick to a clean, business-like layout with consistent fonts, spacing, and margins. Match the formatting of your resume for a cohesive application package.
Address the Right Person
Whenever possible, address the letter to a specific individual (e.g., “Dear Ms. Johnson”). Use LinkedIn or the company website to find the hiring manager’s name.
Start with a Strong Opening
Capture attention in the first paragraph by stating the position, expressing genuine interest, and previewing the value you’ll bring to the role.
Highlight Relevant Achievements
Focus on 1–2 specific accomplishments that relate directly to the job. Use metrics, outcomes, or project details to demonstrate impact.
Show You Understand the Company
Demonstrate knowledge of the company’s mission, recent news, or culture. This shows you’ve done your homework and care about where you work.
Explain Career Transitions Briefly
If you’re changing industries, roles, or returning to work, provide context for your move and highlight transferable skills.
Keep It Concise and Focused
Limit your letter to one page and avoid repeating your resume. Aim for clarity and brevity—ideally 3–4 paragraphs.
Use a Confident, Professional Tone
Write assertively without arrogance. Avoid overused buzzwords unless supported by real examples.
Close with a Clear Call to Action
End with a confident statement of interest, and invite the employer to connect or schedule an interview.
Proofread Carefully
Typos and grammatical errors can ruin a strong letter. Review it multiple times, and consider reading it out loud or asking someone else to check it.