how to write a cover letter for nurse supervisor

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Nursing Supervisor Cover Letter Example

Writing a cover letter to apply for a nursing supervisor role can be a challenging task, especially if you are not sure what to include and how to make yourself stand out from other applicants. This guide offers helpful advice on how to write an effective cover letter that will showcase your experience and qualifications for the job. It also provides an example cover letter for a nursing supervisor role to help you get started. With this guide, you’ll have the tools you need to create a successful cover letter that will increase your chances of getting an interview.

If you didn’t find what you were looking for, be sure to check out our complete library of cover letter examples .

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Nursing Supervisor Cover Letter Sample

Dear [Hiring Manager],

I am writing to apply for the position of Nursing Supervisor at [Organization], as advertised in [Source].

As an experienced nursing supervisor with more than ten years of experience in the field, I believe I am the ideal candidate for this role. I am passionate about providing excellent patient care, managing quality assurance and regulatory compliance, and developing strategies to improve the delivery of care. My knowledge of nursing procedures and standards ensures that I am able to coordinate effectively with the nursing team and other healthcare providers to achieve quality results.

My experience has enabled me to be successful in a wide range of settings, from small clinics to large hospitals. In my current role as a Nursing Supervisor at [Organization], I manage a team of 35 nurses, providing guidance, support and training. I also develop quality assurance protocols and oversee regulatory compliance for the organization. In addition, I regularly participate in committees and task forces to support the growth of the nursing department.

I possess strong communication, organizational and problem- solving skills, and I work well in teams and independently. I have a proven track record of success in healthcare environments, and I am confident that I am the right person for this role.

Thank you for your consideration. Please feel free to contact me at [Phone] or [email] to arrange an interview. I look forward to hearing from you.

[Your Name]

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What should a Nursing Supervisor cover letter include?

A nursing supervisor cover letter should include information about your professional background and qualifications, your experience in the nursing field, and any relevant educational credentials you possess. It should also clearly demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position and explain why you are the best candidate for the job.

The cover letter should provide a brief overview of your relevant skills, such as your ability to communicate with patients, families, and staff, as well as your knowledge of nursing standards and protocols. Your knowledge of management and supervisory principles should also be highlighted, as well as your experience in a supervisory role. Additionally, the cover letter should demonstrate your strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively.

It should also include a brief description of your commitment to continuing education, such as seminars and courses, which will help you stay up to date on the latest developments in the field of nursing. The cover letter should conclude by highlighting the reasons why you are the best candidate for the position and emphasizing your enthusiasm for the opportunity.

Nursing Supervisor Cover Letter Writing Tips

A strong cover letter is essential when applying for any job, especially a nursing supervisor position. As the primary point of contact between yourself and the prospective employer, it is important to make a great first impression. Follow these tips to write an effective cover letter for a nursing supervisor job.

• Research the company: Before writing your cover letter, make sure to research the company you are applying to. Read the job description and research the company website and any other resources you can find. This will help you tailor your cover letter to fit the company’s culture, needs, and values.
• Use a professional format: Start your cover letter with a professional salutation and make sure your grammar and spelling are correct. Use a business letter format and keep it concise and to the point.
• Highlight key qualifications: Highlight the skills, experience, and qualifications that make you an ideal candidate for the position. If you have specialized certifications or experience that would be beneficial, mention it in your cover letter.
• Demonstrate your passion: Show your enthusiasm for the position and your commitment to the profession. Explain why you are passionate about nursing and how you would make a great addition to the team.
• Use a call to action: End your cover letter with a call to action, such as requesting an interview. This will demonstrate your confidence and show that you are serious about the position.

By following these tips, you can create a strong cover letter that will help you get the job you want. Good luck with your nursing supervisor job search!

Common mistakes to avoid when writing Nursing Supervisor Cover letter

Writing a cover letter for a nursing supervisor position can be daunting. It’s important that you make the right impression and showcase your qualifications and experience. To ensure that you craft a successful cover letter, here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Not being specific: Make sure to include relevant qualifications and experiences in your cover letter, as this will make your application stand out. Avoid generic statements that could be applied to any job you’re applying for.
• Not addressing the hiring manager: Make sure to research the organization and address the cover letter to the hiring manager. This will demonstrate your interest in the company and show that you’ve taken the time to find the right person.
• Not proofreading: Before hitting send, make sure to proofread your cover letter. Typos or mistakes can be a major turnoff for employers and will reflect poorly on your application as a whole.
• Not making it personal: Your cover letter should be all about you and your qualifications. Avoid overusing buzzwords and make sure to personalize the letter to the position you’re applying for.
• Not tailoring the letter: Make sure to tailor your cover letter to the particular position you’re applying for. Include relevant skills and experience that make you the best candidate for the job.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your cover letter makes a great impression on employers and increases your chances of being considered for the nursing supervisor position.

Key takeaways

A nursing supervisor cover letter is your opportunity to make a lasting impression with the hiring manager. Crafting an effective and convincing letter can increase your chances of getting an interview and landing the job. Here are some key takeaways for writing an impressive nursing supervisor cover letter:

• Focus on your qualifications: Make sure your letter highlights your relevant skills, qualifications, and experience. Try to tailor your cover letter to fit the position you’re applying for.
• Highlight your accomplishments: Showcase any accomplishments or awards you’ve earned that pertain to the position. If you’ve had any success in a supervisory role, make sure to include it.
• Show your enthusiasm for the position: Let the hiring manager know that you’re excited about the position and what you can bring to the table. Demonstrate your passion and enthusiasm for the job.
• Keep it brief and to the point: Your cover letter should be no longer than one page. Stick to the point and avoid rambling on.
• Proofread: Before submitting your cover letter, be sure to proofread it for any spelling or grammar errors. Make sure all the information is accurate and up to date.

By following these key takeaways, you can write an impressive nursing supervisor cover letter that will get the attention of the hiring manager. A well- written letter can help you stand out from the competition and increase your chances of getting an interview. Good luck!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. how do i write a cover letter for an nursing supervisor job with no experience.

Writing a cover letter for an Nursing Supervisor job can be a challenge if you don’t have any relevant experience. However, it is still possible to write a compelling cover letter that will get you noticed. First, make sure to highlight any relevant transferable skills or knowledge you have gained from other positions. Secondly, focus on the qualities that could make you a great fit for the role. Showcase any leadership experience or qualifications you have, and explain why you’re passionate about the position. Finally, make sure to explain why you’re the best candidate for the job and why the employer should give you a chance to prove yourself.

2. How do I write a cover letter for an Nursing Supervisor job experience?

Writing a cover letter for an Nursing Supervisor job with experience is much easier than writing one with no experience. Emphasize the successes you’ve had in previous Nursing Supervisor roles, and explain how you plan to contribute to the team. Make sure to highlight any accomplishments you’ve achieved, such as saving money or transforming processes. Offer concrete examples of how you’ve used your skills to solve problems or streamline processes. Finally, make sure to explain why you’re the best candidate for the job and why the employer should give you a chance to prove yourself.

3. How can I highlight my accomplishments in Nursing Supervisor cover letter?

Highlighting your accomplishments in a Nursing Supervisor cover letter is essential for showing employers why you’re the best candidate for the job. Make sure to include specific examples of how you’ve used your skills to achieve great results. What did you do that made a difference? How did you save time or money? How did you streamline processes or develop new initiatives? Make sure to also explain how you plan to contribute to the team. Finally, make sure to explain why you’re the best candidate for the job and why the employer should give you a chance to prove yourself.

4. What is a good cover letter for an Nursing Supervisor position?

A good cover letter for an Nursing Supervisor position should be concise, but also highlight your relevant experience and qualifications. Make sure to showcase any leadership experience or qualifications you have, and explain how you plan to contribute to the team. Focus on the qualities that could make you a great fit for the role. Offer concrete examples of how you’ve used your skills to solve problems or streamline processes. Finally, make sure to explain why you’re the best candidate for the job and why the employer should give you a chance to prove yourself.

In addition to this, be sure to check out our cover letter templates , cover letter formats ,  cover letter examples ,  job description , and  career advice  pages for more helpful tips and advice.

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Nursing Supervisor Cover Letter: Job Description, Sample & Guide

Create a standout nursing supervisor cover letter with our online platform. browse professional templates for all levels and specialties. land your dream role today.

As a highly skilled and experienced nursing supervisor, you understand the importance of effectively communicating your qualifications and experience in a cover letter. Your cover letter serves as your first impression to potential employers and should showcase your leadership skills, expertise in nursing practices, and ability to manage a team. In this guide, we will provide you with valuable tips and a sample nursing supervisor cover letter to help you stand out in your job search.

We will cover:

• How to write a cover letter, no matter your industry or job title.
• What to put on a cover letter to stand out.
• The top skills employers from every industry want to see.
• How to build a cover letter fast with our professional Cover Letter Builder .
• Why you should use a cover letter template

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Nursing Supervisor Cover Letter Sample

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Nursing Supervisor position at your organization. With over 10 years of experience in nursing and 5 years of experience in a supervisory role, I am confident in my ability to contribute to the success of your healthcare team.

During my previous role as a Nursing Supervisor, I successfully led a team of nurses and support staff, ensuring the delivery of high-quality patient care. I developed and implemented staff training programs, which resulted in improved patient outcomes and increased staff satisfaction. I also effectively managed staffing levels and schedules to ensure adequate coverage while minimizing overtime expenses.

• Registered Nurse (RN) license
• BSN degree from an accredited institution
• 5 years of experience in a supervisory role
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• Expertise in healthcare regulations and compliance

I am confident that my strong background in nursing, coupled with my leadership abilities, make me a strong candidate for the Nursing Supervisor position at your organization. I am passionate about fostering a positive work environment and promoting professional development among staff members. I am dedicated to upholding the highest standards of patient care and ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements.

In addition to my professional qualifications, I am dedicated to ongoing professional development and staying current with the latest advancements in healthcare. I am committed to promoting a culture of excellence and fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my unique blend of skills and experience to your team. I am confident that my background and dedication to quality patient care make me a strong fit for the Nursing Supervisor position at your organization.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience align with the needs of your team.

[Your Name]

Why Do you Need a Nursing Supervisor Cover Letter?

• It highlights your qualifications and experience in the nursing field
• It allows you to explain why you are the best candidate for the supervisor role
• It demonstrates your written communication skills and attention to detail
• It shows your enthusiasm and interest in the position
• It sets you apart from other candidates by providing a personalized introduction

A Few Important Rules To Keep In Mind

• Address the cover letter to the specific individual or hiring manager, if possible.
• Use a professional and appropriate greeting, such as "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Specific Individual's Name]."
• Introduce yourself and mention your current position and experience in nursing supervision.
• Highlight your specific skills and qualifications that make you a strong candidate for the Nursing Supervisor position.
• Explain why you are interested in the role and the organization, and how you align with their mission and values.
• Show your enthusiasm and passion for nursing and leadership.
• Conclude the cover letter by thanking the reader for their time and consideration, and expressing your eagerness to further discuss your qualifications in an interview.
• Include a professional closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best Regards," followed by your signature and contact information.

What's The Best Structure For Nursing Supervisor Cover Letters?

After creating an impressive Nursing Supervisor resume , the next step is crafting a compelling cover letter to accompany your job applications. It's essential to remember that your cover letter should maintain a formal tone and follow a recommended structure. But what exactly does this structure entail, and what key elements should be included in a Nursing Supervisor cover letter? Let's explore the guidelines and components that will make your cover letter stand out.

Key Components For Nursing Supervisor Cover Letters:

• Your contact information, including the date of writing
• The recipient's details, such as the company's name and the name of the addressee
• A professional greeting or salutation, like "Dear Mr. Levi,"
• An attention-grabbing opening statement to captivate the reader's interest
• A concise paragraph explaining why you are an excellent fit for the role
• Another paragraph highlighting why the position aligns with your career goals and aspirations
• A closing statement that reinforces your enthusiasm and suitability for the role
• A complimentary closing, such as "Regards" or "Sincerely," followed by your name
• An optional postscript (P.S.) to add a brief, impactful note or mention any additional relevant information.

Cover Letter Header

A header in a cover letter should typically include the following information:

• Your Full Name: Begin with your first and last name, written in a clear and legible format.
• Contact Information: Include your phone number, email address, and optionally, your mailing address. Providing multiple methods of contact ensures that the hiring manager can reach you easily.
• Date: Add the date on which you are writing the cover letter. This helps establish the timeline of your application.

It's important to place the header at the top of the cover letter, aligning it to the left or center of the page. This ensures that the reader can quickly identify your contact details and know when the cover letter was written.

Cover Letter Greeting / Salutation

A greeting in a cover letter should contain the following elements:

• Personalized Salutation: Address the hiring manager or the specific recipient of the cover letter by their name. If the name is not mentioned in the job posting or you are unsure about the recipient's name, it's acceptable to use a general salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Company Name] Recruiting Team."
• Professional Tone: Maintain a formal and respectful tone throughout the greeting. Avoid using overly casual language or informal expressions.
• Correct Spelling and Title: Double-check the spelling of the recipient's name and ensure that you use the appropriate title (e.g., Mr., Ms., Dr., or Professor) if applicable. This shows attention to detail and professionalism.

For example, a suitable greeting could be "Dear Ms. Johnson," or "Dear Hiring Manager," depending on the information available. It's important to tailor the greeting to the specific recipient to create a personalized and professional tone for your cover letter.

Cover Letter Introduction

An introduction for a cover letter should capture the reader's attention and provide a brief overview of your background and interest in the position. Here's how an effective introduction should look:

• Opening Statement: Start with a strong opening sentence that immediately grabs the reader's attention. Consider mentioning your enthusiasm for the job opportunity or any specific aspect of the company or organization that sparked your interest.
• Brief Introduction: Provide a concise introduction of yourself and mention the specific position you are applying for. Include any relevant background information, such as your current role, educational background, or notable achievements that are directly related to the position.
• Connection to the Company: Demonstrate your knowledge of the company or organization and establish a connection between your skills and experiences with their mission, values, or industry. Showcasing your understanding and alignment with their goals helps to emphasize your fit for the role.
• Engaging Hook: Consider including a compelling sentence or two that highlights your unique selling points or key qualifications that make you stand out from other candidates. This can be a specific accomplishment, a relevant skill, or an experience that demonstrates your value as a potential employee.
• Transition to the Body: Conclude the introduction by smoothly transitioning to the main body of the cover letter, where you will provide more detailed information about your qualifications, experiences, and how they align with the requirements of the position.

By following these guidelines, your cover letter introduction will make a strong first impression and set the stage for the rest of your application.

Cover Letter Body

I am writing to express my interest in the Nursing Supervisor position at your facility. With over 10 years of experience in nursing leadership roles, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your team and support the delivery of high-quality patient care.

My background includes extensive experience in staff management, scheduling, and workflow optimization. I have a proven track record of implementing and enforcing policies and procedures to ensure compliance with regulatory standards. Additionally, I am skilled in promoting a positive work environment and fostering professional growth among nursing staff.

Some key components to be included in a Nursing Supervisor cover letter could be:

• A brief introduction highlighting your interest in the position and relevant experience
• A summary of your leadership experience and skills, showcasing your ability to manage and support nursing staff
• Specific examples of your accomplishments in improving patient care outcomes and operational efficiency
• A statement of commitment to upholding standards of quality care and promoting a positive work culture
• A request for an opportunity to discuss how my qualifications align with your facility's needs

I am confident that my strong communication skills, attention to detail, and passion for healthcare make me a valuable asset to your team. I am eager for the opportunity to further discuss how my background, skills, and certifications align with the needs of your facility.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team as a Nursing Supervisor.

Complimentary Close

The conclusion and signature of a cover letter provide a final opportunity to leave a positive impression and invite further action. Here's how the conclusion and signature of a cover letter should look:

• Summary of Interest: In the conclusion paragraph, summarize your interest in the position and reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to the organization or school. Emphasize the value you can bring to the role and briefly mention your key qualifications or unique selling points.
• Appreciation and Gratitude: Express appreciation for the reader's time and consideration in reviewing your application. Thank them for the opportunity to be considered for the position and acknowledge any additional materials or documents you have included, such as references or a portfolio.
• Call to Action: Conclude the cover letter with a clear call to action. Indicate your availability for an interview or express your interest in discussing the opportunity further. Encourage the reader to contact you to schedule a meeting or provide any additional information they may require.
• Complimentary Closing: Choose a professional and appropriate complimentary closing to end your cover letter, such as "Sincerely," "Best Regards," or "Thank you." Ensure the closing reflects the overall tone and formality of the letter.
• Signature: Below the complimentary closing, leave space for your handwritten signature. Sign your name in ink using a legible and professional style. If you are submitting a digital or typed cover letter, you can simply type your full name.
• Typed Name: Beneath your signature, type your full name in a clear and readable font. This allows for easy identification and ensures clarity in case the handwritten signature is not clear.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Nursing Supervisor Cover Letter

When crafting a cover letter, it's essential to present yourself in the best possible light to potential employers. However, there are common mistakes that can hinder your chances of making a strong impression. By being aware of these pitfalls and avoiding them, you can ensure that your cover letter effectively highlights your qualifications and stands out from the competition. In this article, we will explore some of the most common mistakes to avoid when writing a cover letter, providing you with valuable insights and practical tips to help you create a compelling and impactful introduction that captures the attention of hiring managers. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career journey, understanding these mistakes will greatly enhance your chances of success in the job application process. So, let's dive in and discover how to steer clear of these common missteps and create a standout cover letter that gets you noticed by potential employers.

• Avoid using generic cover letters that are not tailored to the specific job and organization.
• Avoid focusing too much on your own qualifications and experiences without linking them to how you can contribute to the nursing team and organization.
• Do not include any spelling or grammar mistakes in your cover letter as it reflects poorly on your attention to detail.
• Avoid being too informal or casual in your tone and language, as this is a professional communication.
• Avoid providing vague or generic examples. Instead, focus on specific instances where you have demonstrated leadership, critical thinking, and teamwork skills.
• Do not provide false or misleading information in your cover letter as it can negatively impact your credibility.
• Avoid being too lengthy in your cover letter, as hiring managers typically prefer concise and to-the-point communication.

Key Takeaways For a Nursing Supervisor Cover Letter

• Demonstrated leadership and management skills
• Proven ability to mentor and support nursing staff
• Extensive knowledge of nursing best practices and regulations
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Experience in overseeing patient care and ensuring compliance with healthcare standards
• Commitment to providing high-quality and compassionate care

How to Write a Nursing Cover Letter That Stands Out + Examples

• Do You Need One?
• What to Include
• 6 Common Mistakes
• Cover Letter Template
• Cover Letter Example
• Don't Forget It!

You're not alone if you think writing a nursing cover letter is intimidating. However, a great cover letter may be the difference between landing the job or having your application ignored. 

Keep reading for expert advice regarding the importance and benefits of writing a nursing cover letter and common mistakes to avoid, and some examples you can use!

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Do You Need Nursing Cover Letters?  

The cover letter is your chance to highlight your past experience and let the hiring manager know why you believe you're the best fit for the role. The hiring manager will quickly notice you are motivated and enthusiastic about the job prospect. 

It's also your first chance to show your articulation and communication skills. A well-crafted cover letter makes an impression that instantly sets you apart from other applicants. 

Benefits of Writing a Nursing Cover Letter

Most candidates don't take the time to create a cover letter. In the world of online applications, attaching one is usually optional and feels like extra work. So many applicants fill out the bare minimum and move on to the next job posting. 

Stand out from the competition - Write a killer cover letter. 

Why you should take the time to create your cover letter

• Increase chances your application is reviewed
• Highlight your accomplishments, skills, and qualifications
• Showcase your personality and communication skills
• Make a great first impression
• Show your interest in the position/company

Your resume is important, but the cover letter sets the tone for your entire application. Check out our Ultimate Guide to Nursing Resumes to learn more about current resume etiquette and trends.

Writing a nursing resume can feel overwhelming. It’s no easy task! Nowadays, nursing resumes must be able to pass through resume reading software before it even reaches a recruiter. That’s why we’ve put together THREE nurse resume templates to cater to your unique professional needs and employment situation.

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What to Include in Your Nursing Cover Letter

Did you learn how to write business letters in school? Have you forgotten everything about how to format them? You’re not alone - we’ve got your back here at Nurse.org. 

Let's go through the basic format of a nursing cover letter that can be used at any stage of your professional development, including entry-level and specialty changes. 

The header is simple; it’s just contact information for both you and the hiring organization. The basic format is:

Phone Number

Email Address

Street Address  

• City, ST, Zip Code

Hiring Manager (Use name if possible)

• Healthcare Organization 

The best advice here is to find out the hiring manager's name so you can personalize the greeting. 

How to find out the name of a hiring manager:

• If you have a connection in the organization, ask who will review your application. 
• Review the company website or LinkedIn to find the manager or director for the position. 
• Call the Human resources department. This can be hit or miss, but it's worth a shot if you haven't found the right person. 

Generic greetings should be your last resort. If you've tried and still can't find the name, "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear Nursing Recruitment Team" will work. You'll wow them with the rest of your letter. 

Paragraph #1: Opening

In the opening paragraph, identify the position you're applying for and briefly state why you're a good fit. HR and hiring managers often look at resumes for several positions, so this is a chance to remind them that you are applying for X opportunity. It signals the hiring manager to read the rest of your letter and resume with that position in mind. 

Paragraph #2: Background & Qualifications

Your qualifications paragraph is the most important one in your cover letter. Briefly summarize your background, skills, and traits that make you the perfect candidate for the position in about 2-3. Use keywords from the posted job description that complement your skill set. You can also use bullet points to make this paragraph stand out.

Note for new grads: All of your background experience is valuable. Suppose you don't have healthcare-specific work experience. In that case, you can highlight customer service skills, eagerness to learn new processes, and highlights from nursing school clinical experiences. 

Notes for nurses transitioning to new specialties: Give a brief career synopsis and highlight the skills you think will best transfer to the new specialty. Emphasize strengths that align with the job position posting. 

Paragraph #3: Compliment the Organization

Your final paragraph shows you're serious about the position. Research the organization and state why you want to join their team. You can find great information and keywords to use on the job post or their website.

Closing the Nursing Cover Letter

Your closing sentence is brief and invites further conversation. Restate your contact information and Invite the hiring manager to discuss the role further. Then, add in a final closure and your signature. Congratulations,  your letter is complete!

The closure should be respectful and professional. Examples include

• Respectfully
• Sincerely yours
• Yours truly
• With warm regards
• Best regards

How to List Your Nursing Credentials

It’s easy to get confused about how to list your nursing credentials. The correct way to sign your name with credentials is:

[Name], [Highest level of education completed], [License type], [Certifications]

Jane completed an associate degree and is a Registered Nurse without other certifications (yet). Her signature is Jane Doe, ADN, RN

If Jane goes on to complete her BSN and Pediatric certification, her signature changes to: Jane Doe, BSN, RN, CPN

We’ve got templates below to help you get started, but first let’s review some common mistakes you should avoid. 

6 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing Your Nursing Cover Letter   

Writing a great nursing cover letter may seem daunting, but the process does get easier with practice. Here are a few common nursing cover letter mistakes and pitfalls to avoid.

1. Leaving Grammatical Errors and Typos

Most programs have some spell and grammar check capabilities, but don't rely on them alone. Websites such as grammarly.com offer free proofreading and grammar review. Make sure to review that all names are correctly spelled.

2. Using a Generic Greeting

Do your research to find the hiring manager’s name. If you can’t find it, open the letter with “Dear Hiring Manager.” Avoid “To whom it may concern” at all costs. 

3. Forgetting to add Keywords

Read the job description carefully. Find keywords that relate to your experience and use them throughout the cover letter. 

4. Not Following Instructions

Follow any specific requirements listed in the job description or application website. If the listing says to upload your cover letter as a PDF, save your document as a PDF before submitting it. 

This is your first test to see if you pay attention to detail and follow directions. Don't fail before you even get started!!

5. Using the Same Cover Letter for Different Jobs

Each position and organization are unique; don’t repeatedly use the same letter. However, you also don't need to start from scratch each time! 

Save your cover letters as you write them so they’re available to edit next time. Highlight different skills if needed. Make it personal to the new position by including keywords from the job listing.

6. Forgetting to Proofread and Edit

Notice how #1 and #6 are almost identical? It’s on purpose - proofreading is the most critical aspect of writing. Here are some tips to help you make sure your cover letter is perfect:

Read your letter out loud. Does it make sense? Do any of the sentences sound strange when you read them out loud? 

Walk away . Putting a bit of time between writing and finalizing your edits can make a world of difference in the final draft.

Enlist a friend. Ask a  trusted friend, career advisor, or faculty member to read the letter before you hit send. 

Nursing Cover Letter Template

Here’s everything your nursing cover letter should include.

City, State, Zip Code

Healthcare Organization Name

Telephone Number

Email address

Dear (Mr. Mrs. Ms.) ________,

Dear Nursing Recruitment Team,

Opening: 2-3 sentences that express your excitement. Name the exact position you are applying for and the organization. Briefly state why you are the best fit. 

Background & Qualifications: 2-4 sentences to highlight your applicable certifications, achievements and strengths. You may use bullet format to draw attention to this section.

Compliment the Organization: 2-3 sentences to show you’ve researched the organization and position. Highlight organizational values that align with yours.

Closing sentence: Thank the hiring manager for taking time to review your application. Invite them to contact you to arrange an interview. 

With warm regards, 

Your Name, (credentials)

Example Nursing Cover Letter

(718) 555–0100

[email protected]

123 Main Street; 

City, ST 12345

August 01, 2023

Hailey Johnson

Human Resources

Mercy Healthcare

123 Broadway Ave;  City, ST 12300

Dear Ms. Hailey Johnson,

I am excited to apply for the Registered Nurse residency program at Mercy Healthcare. I recently graduated with my Bachelor of Science in Nursing and believe the skills and knowledge gained during nursing school will be highly valuable to your team.

I received excellent clinical reviews throughout nursing school and graduated with honors. I have excellent time-management skills and look forward to further developing hands-on skills through clinical practice. My ability to coordinate tasks and collaborate with others allows me to provide excellent patient care. 

Mercy Healthcare is well-known for patient-centered care and shared governance. I look forward to making a difference in patients’ lives through compassion, dedication, and excellent nursing care. 

Thank you for considering my application. I can be reached at (718) 555–0100 or [email protected] to arrange an interview and further discuss my qualifications.

Ava Smith, BSN, RN

Don't Forget Your Cover Letter!

Always, always, always attach a cover letter to your job applications. These templates should help you get started. Attaching a cover letter immediately sets you apart from the candidates who do not take the time to write or attach one. Highlight your strengths and show the hiring manager that you’re serious about the position. Then start prepping your answers to  common interview questions for when you get that call.

Joleen Sams is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner based in the Kansas City metro area. During her 10-year RN career, Joleen worked in NICU, inpatient pediatrics, and regulatory compliance. Since graduating with her MSN-FNP in 2019, she has worked in urgent care and nursing administration. Connect with Joleen on LinkedIn or see more of her writing on her website.

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