How to fill in this cover letter
- 1Your full name
e.g. Maria Teresa L. Villanueva - 2Your address
e.g. Blk 7 Lot 22, Sampaguita St., Brgy. Pulo, Cabuyao, Laguna - 3Mobile and email
e.g. 0917 842 3361 · mt.villanueva@gmail.com - 4Date
e.g. November 12, 2026 - 5Hiring manager
e.g. Ms. Carmela D. Santos - 6Their position
e.g. Talent Acquisition Lead
Answer the question before they ask it
A recruiter reading a shifter's letter wonders why you are changing and whether you can do the new work. Say the move is deliberate, name two or three skills that carry over, and show one thing you did to prepare — a TESDA certificate, an online course, a freelance project.
What every cover letter needs
Hiring managers look for the same few things before they open the resume.
- The exact position title from the job post — and where you saw the post.
- A name to address. Look it up on the company page or LinkedIn; use "Dear Hiring Manager:" only if you cannot find one.
- One or two specifics — a number, a result, a project — not a list of adjectives.
- Your mobile number and email at the top, and when you can start or be interviewed.
Before you send it
Read it once aloud. Then check the details that get applications dropped.
- The company name is right everywhere — no leftover name from another application.
- The letter and the resume agree on dates, school and job titles.
- It fits one page, and your signature is on it if you print it.
Questions people ask
Should I explain why I am leaving my old field?
Briefly and positively, if at all — what you are moving toward, not what you are running from. Save the full story for the interview.
Is a cover letter the same as an application letter?
Yes. In the Philippines both names are used for the same one-page letter that goes on top of your resume. Some job posts ask for it by name; send one even when they don't — it is often the first thing a recruiter reads.
How long should it be?
One page, three to four short paragraphs. Recruiters skim it in under a minute. Say which job you want, prove you can do it with one or two specifics, and ask for an interview.
Should I send it as a PDF or in the email body?
When applying by email, paste a short version in the email body and attach this letter and your resume as PDFs. Name the files clearly, for example "Santos_Cover_Letter.pdf".
Should I state my expected salary?
Only if the job post asks for it. Otherwise leave salary for the interview or the application form.
This page explains common practice and is not legal advice. Offices set their own rules — when in doubt, call ahead or ask your notary or lawyer.