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How to Write an Effective Architecture Cover Letter
- Updated: July 2, 2024
Whether attending a job interview, or sending out an online application for the first time, delivering a positive and well-rounded first impression is of vital importance, and this is especially true when it comes to applying for an architectural position within a firm .
As particularly when competing against many other suitable candidates, applicants rarely get a second chance to introduce themselves, so why not do it right?
In this article we discuss how to write the perfect architecture cover letter , and examine its purpose, format and structure, together with tried and tested writing tips and principles that conclude with a step by step paragraph breakdown and free cover letter template.
All aiming to ensure that you and your application stand out to your next prospective employer.
For those looking to get straight into preparing and writing their cover letter, we have prepared 28 fully editable and adaptable cover letter templates to help support and speed up the process.
Fully-structured, ready-to-use, and highly-customizable, these can simply be opened, edited, and sent. Bespoke elements and personal details are clearly highlighted in red, making them incredibly easy and simple to edit. …More information via the below link:
You only get one first impression.
83% Of Decision Makers Say Cover Letters Are Important - Impress 100% Of Them.
What is a cover letter and what is its purpose.
In your search for prospects in the architectural field, you can spend hours on end trying to pull together the perfect resume. However, the silver bullet could be a well written cover letter.
Though it is believed that a lot of employers do not read cover letters, more than half of them expect to be sent one with an application regardless.
Job applications in most professions, architecture inclusive, have two main constituents. First is your resume – which provides a summary of your education and professional experience. Next is your cover letter!
Though they might both seem commensurate, the cover letter is possibly the more important, as it is the first means of introduction to a prospective employer.
If landing that job is of top-priority to you, your resume is not enough! Be it for an internship, part-time or full-time position, ensure you include a cover letter.
This gives more weight to your application and greatly improves your chances of getting called for an interview to discuss and present your portfolio .
Just like a spare tire, you never know when your cover letter will come in handy.
For more information on preparing a resume, we have a full guide here: How To Create The Perfect Architecture Resume
The purpose of a cover letter
Think of a cover letter as you would if you were meeting someone for the first time. As a professional, it signifies your intent, tone and values.
In the event that your cover letter is not successful at inspiring someone to learn more about you, there is a high chance they will not bother taking a look at your resume or portfolio at all.
A cover letter serves various purposes, some of which are:
- It communicates to the employer the reason why you should be hired.
- It showcases your noteworthy endeavors and expertise. It is suggested that you show-off the duties you undertook at your previous jobs. This will draw the employer’s attention to your distinctive capabilities.
- You might want to convey how passionate you are about the field of architecture. Also, showcase enthusiasm for the position you are applying to and how important the job opportunity is to you.
- Cover letters set precedence for follow-up. We suggest that you include the date and time you plan to call for a follow-up, so as to abolish the waiting game. This places the ball in the court of the employer.
- A great cover letter makes up for a sub-par resume. If your resume is lacking in some areas, be sure to exhibit your personality via a convincing cover letter.
- It illustrates your ability to communicate clearly and effectively. Resumes tend to be short and precise, so a cover letter affords you the opportunity to expatiate on points.
- Cover letters confirm that you have carried out adequate research on the company and what they search for in a client.
Core architecture cover letter tips and principles
Here are some tips to help with writing your architectural cover letter:
Keep it brief
- A cover letter should not be longer than a page. Ideally it should have a target of three paragraphs; maximum of four or five depending on how you break up the body of writing.
- Use this space to state the things you can offer the firm, and avoid bombarding your letter with redundant words and unnecessary information.
- Place your focus on writing a griping and succinct cover letter, as this demonstrates your ability to effectively communicate.
- Be sure to avoid repetition.
Start strong
Begin your write-up by stating the role you are applying for, and why you are a suitable candidate for the position. Be sure to mention your work experience and qualities that make you ideal for the job.
Note that you should stay away from phrases like “I’m the perfect candidate for this position because…” or “I am confident I will exceed your expectations in every way.”
For applicants that do not have prior work experience in the field, it might benefit you to focus on recounting your extracurricular accomplishments. In general, the firm should get an idea that your foundation is solid enough to launch a career in the architecture field.
Customize your cover letter
Personalize your cover letter by adding keywords that have been mentioned in the job description. Make sure you read through the job posting carefully, and highlight the skills needed for the role (e.g., years of experience, technical skills, degree, etc.)
A pro tip is to take the buzzwords in the job posting, and reverse engineer them to fit your cover letter, as many companies even use automated applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen applications.
Furthermore, make evident your acquaintance with the job role, the architectural field and the firm or employer.
Your application should stand out as it will not appear to be generic, but put together specifically for this purpose.
Address a specific person
If possible, your cover letter should be addressed to the hiring manager – with their first and last name. If you do not have a name, a quick google search might help.
You could take it a step further by contacting the organization directly to find out. The personal touch shows that you made an effort.
Though “Dear Hiring Manager” and “To Whom It May Concern” are a bit frosty, we would suggest you go with the later if unable to get any information on the hiring manager’s name.
Sell yourself
Keep your cover letter distinctive as it is your marking document. Do not simply copy and paste everything in your resume, but expand on the best parts of it.
List and expand on your soft skills and social skills, as some companies are really big on this. Some examples of soft skills include communication, teamwork, problem solving, etc.
Your cover letter gives you a chance to explain gaps in your resume, if you have any. See the cover letter as would your “elevator pitch” or a marketing campaign.
Use the right format
Formatting plays a major role in the world of design. Your cover letter should look professional and clean. Also, ensure that the format of your cover letter complements that of your resume.
Keep the tone of your cover letter to three essential points, which are the introduction, body and conclusion.
Include testimonials
Providing references from former managers, co-workers, and clients can go a long way in emphasizing your expertise and passion for the job. Add one or two testimonials to your letter, but do not go overboard with it as it might lead to overcrowding.
Proofread painstakingly
Be sure to double check your letter right after you are done putting it together. It is easy to make spelling errors and “ spell check ” might not catch every single one of them.
We suggest you give your letter to a friend to check for grammatical and spelling errors as well. You could also show them the job description, to confirm that you have covered all points required.
Cover letter mistakes to avoid
- Beating around the bush: This can be a time waster for you and the hiring manager. Go straight to the point in your letter.
- Using emoticons and abbreviations: Avoid using emoticons and words like “WOW,” “LOL,” “OMG” as they show a lack of professionalism.
- Focusing too much on yourself: Your emphasis should be on the job description and what you bring to the table. The employers needs to know that you can get the work done.
- Overusing the word “I’: Using the word “I” at the beginning of every sentence makes your letter look monotonous and more like an autobiography.
- Oversharing: Resist the urge to share every tiny detail about your previous work experience. A brief and concise description is fine.
- Giving red flag details: Do not overemphasise your weaknesses and bad encounters from past jobs, as this could easily create a negative impression of you.
- Length: Do not overstretch the cover letter. Also, avoid complicated sentence structures and ambiguous vocabulary. You can keep the letter at half or full page.
- Unprofessional contact information: Make sure your email address does not contain vulgar words. A formal and safe address is one that contains your first and last name .
- Generic letters: Customize your cover letter to each job posting.
- Same information: Skip information that is already included in your resume.
- Sign: Do not forget to sign your cover letter, as this shows that you pay attention to detail.
- Proofreading: Ensure you properly proofread your cover letter to avoid spelling and grammatical errors.
- Passive tone: Do not depend on the hiring manager to contact you. Instead, include a scheduled time you will be calling or mailing them for feedback on your application.
- Addressing the letter: Make sure the cover letter is addressed to the hiring manager of the company. Do not forget to personalize it, if possible.
How to format and structure your architecture cover letter
01. – format.
Human Resource Managers get loads of applications all the time, but only interview a few applicants. So how can you get your cover letter to stand out among the rest?
These quick pointers are a simple yet effective way of ensuring your letter is successfully formatted and structured:
- Align all parts of the cover letter to the left side.
- Letters should be single spaced with 1-inch margins on each side.
- Choosing the right font is crucial. Stay away from fancy fonts and be sure to match the cover letter font to that of your resume.
- Your architecture cover letter should be a single page or less.
02. Your cover letter header should have the right contact information
The header is the very first thing that people see. Ensure you start with the correct date and contact information. Then, proceed to the recipient’s name, title and their contact details.
Here is an example:
Architecture cover letter sample – header sample template
[Your Full Name]
[Job Title]
[Contact Number]
[Email Address]
[LinkedIn Profile Link]
[Online Portfolio Link]
[Hiring Manager’s Full Name]
[Their Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State, Zip]
For uniformity and easy identification, use the same header on both your resume and cover letter.
03. Introduce yourself and reference the position you’re applying to
Your cover letter should match the job description and begin with the full name of the hiring manager.
Compose the first paragraph of the letter by introducing yourself and stating the job position you are applying for. Cite your greatest architectural accomplishments and ensure they fit the job posting.
Here’s an example:
Architecture cover letter sample – introductory statement sample template
Dear [Manager’s Name/Hiring Manager]:
As a graduate architect based in the city of [your city], passionate about [specific skill they need], I was delighted to find your ad in [where you found the ad] for a [specific architecture job position]. For the longest time, I have been a fan of [company name and specific fact about the company you love]. This is why I believe my [big architectural achievement that fits their needs] makes me a great fit for the role.
04. Mention Applicable Architecture Achievements & Skills
It is important to gather relevant information applicable to the job role. You should learn the terms of the employer before proceeding.
For the second paragraph— Revisit the job description, find work requirements and show that your past experiences put you in a position to handle the job appropriately. This is how:
Architecture cover letter sample – middle paragraph sample template
From your job posting, it is evident that you are searching for an experienced architect with [specific skill or requirement]. The company is interested in [specific company goals] and I am certain that my [number of years] of accomplishments at [your previous company name] have adequately equipped me for this role, including:
[Skill #1]. [Achievement #1]
[Skill #2]. [Achievement #2]
[Skill #3]. [Achievement #3]
05. Ask for an Interview
Before sending in your application, put a solid ending on your cover letter. Be sure to ask for a call or an interview. Use the opportunity to reiterate how valuable you would be to the firm.
Here is an example of a cover letter closing:
Architecture cover letter sample – closing statement sample template
It would be my pleasure to talk over [company name]’s upcoming projects and share how I can further revitalize your team with my project [specific skills].
Best Regards,
[Digital Signature]
[Full Name]
[Phone Number]
Full sample architecture cover letter template
James Charles,
4334 Chips Street,
Mississauga, ON M9W 1L5.
January 1, 2020
Stacey King,
Hiring Manager,
FMA Architects,
84 Suntan Avenue,
Toronto, ON L4W 48E.
Dear Stacey,
As a graduate architect based in the city of Mississauga, passionate about building design and construction, I was delighted to find your ad for the role of an Architectural Technician. For the longest time, I have been a fan of FMIA Architects and the company’s dedication to sustainable architectural design. This is why I believe my creativity and 3D visualization skills make me a great fit for the role.
From your job posting, it is evident that you are searching for an experienced architectural technician with 3D rendering skills and knowledge of working drawings. The company is interested in green house advancement and I am certain that my 5 years of accomplishments at Crowley Designs and Management have adequately equipped me for this role, including:
– Leadership. Led the design of more than 15 residential and commercial building projects in the city of Toronto.
– Collaboration. Introduced new teamwork approach with project management team which saw a 20% decrease in planning time.
– Independence. Solely oversaw the management and construction of 7 residential buildings in the past 5 years.
During my time at Crowley Designs and Management, I practiced and learned many skills, which are transferable into the architectural technician role at FMIA Architects. My years of experience producing architectural designs and construction drawings give me an exceptional edge for this new role.
As evident in my accomplishments, I am very pleased with the work that I do, and if given the opportunity to prove myself at FMIA Architects, I will come with that same work ethic and enthusiasm.
I am welcome to discussing FMIA Architects’ future projects and plans. I would love to meet up for a coffee, and further explain how I believe my skills could be translated to my work at the firm. I will be in touch in the coming week to confirm an appointment.
James Charles
Submitting your cover letter to an architecture firm
Now that you have successfully written a cover letter, it is time to send it out to a prospective employer with your resume, and in some cases, a portfolio .
In general, most job applications are sent via email. Submissions via the company’s website, or a job recruitment website, are quite common as well. There are some employers that would rather have the old-fashioned hard copy submission method.
Email Submission
There are three email submission methods, namely:
Option 1: Cover letter in body of email, resume and portfolio attached separately
- It is more likely that the cover letter will be read if it is in the body of the email, as opposed to it being in a separate attachment.
- This is a great option to use if the formatting of the resume and portfolio are different from that of the cover letter.
- The package is more interesting, as opposed to opening an attachment and seeing just a letter in it.
- The benefit of the resume and portfolio attachments being separate, could also be a disadvantage, as they could both remain unopened after the cover letter has been viewed.
Option 2: Cover letter, resume and portfolio attached separately
- This allows for different formatting to be used in each document
- The hiring manager can simply skip to the exact document they are looking for
- Documents can easily be lost or skipped. Also, more files to open for the hiring manager.
Option 3: Cover letter, resume and portfolio joined into one attachment
- Keeping track of just one document is a lot easier.
- It makes it easier for the hiring manager to print all, if need be.
- If the body of the email is not compelling enough, the attached documents may not be opened at all.
- In the case where the cover letter is included in the body of the email and also in the attachment, it becomes redundant.
- It is a bit trickier if you have different formatting in the documents, e.g. portrait and landscape modes.
Website Submissions
A lot of large architectural organizations allow job applicants submit the application on their websites. Usually, there is a form on the website for the applicant to fill in their details, and attach resumes and portfolios.
PDF documents can also be attached and a text box is incorporated in case candidates want to write their cover letters.
Simply follow the directions on the website, as they vary based on the company.
Mailed Hard Copies
Yes, there are still companies out there that expect you to mail hard copies of your cover letters, resumes and portfolios to them. You might also want to drop in on the architectural firm, and hand in your documents in person.
In that case, ensure that your documents are printed out on high-quality, white-colored bond paper. Place documents in a waterproof envelope to reduce chances of them getting wet. Do not forget to sign the cover letter by hand before submission.
Final words…
Writing a cover letter may seem like a hassle, but note that it is a great way to create a worthy first impression. It can quickly inspire the person on the other end to interview you or trash your application.
Take the chance and craft a magnificent letter that sells you in the best possible light to prospective employers. A well written cover letter can land you the perfect job, so give it a chance.
We’re rooting for you. Best of luck!
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Architect Cover Letter Example (W/ Full Guide for 2024)
You know how to design buildings that are both functional and stunning—your portfolio says it all.
But when it comes to drafting a cover letter, it's like hitting a creative wall. Suddenly, words fail you, and all you see is a blank screen staring back.
Don't worry, you're not alone.
Many skilled architects stumble when they have to put pen to paper—or fingers to keyboard—in a way that's not about blueprints and 3D models.
We've got you covered!
In this article, we're going to lay the foundation for an unbeatable architect cover letter.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
- What a Stunning Architect Cover Letter Looks Like
- 5 Steps to Writing a Job-Winning Architect Cover Letter
- 3 Essential Architect Cover Letter Tips
Ready to build a cover letter that's as impressive as your architectural designs?
Let's dive in!
Architect Cover Letter Example
5 Steps for the Perfect Architecture Cover Letter
You've just seen what a job-winning architect cover letter looks like, and now it's your turn to make one .
To get it right, follow these steps:
#1. Put Contact Information in the Header
Start your architecture cover letter with your contact details right at the top, in the header. It's the same layout you'd use on your resume , so it keeps things consistent.
Here's what to include:
- Full Name. Put your full name at the top of the page.
- Job Title. Make sure the job title on your cover letter matches the exact position you're applying for. Hiring managers tend to juggle applications for various roles at once, so be specific on your application.
- Email Address. Use an email that's easy to remember and professional. For example, swap out immature emails like "[email protected]" for something based on your full name, like “[email protected]” .
- Phone Number. Double-check your phone number, since a typo could mean a missed opportunity. If you're applying internationally, include the dialing code.
- Location. Your city and state or country are usually enough. If you're applying for a remote job or planning to move for this one, say so in your cover letter.
- Relevant Links (Optional). As an architect, we recommend you add links to your portfolio and LinkedIn profile so the hiring manager can quickly see your past work.
Once your own details are in place, add the hiring manager's contact information underneath.
Here’s what to include:
- Company Name. Write down the name of the firm you're applying to.
- Hiring Manager's Name. Do some digging to find out who will be reading your cover letter and address it to them. For example, look at the job ad, the company website, or their LinkedIn job post.
- Hiring Manager's Title. If you find out that the person doing the hiring is the lead architect, use their official title in your cover letter.
- Location. Include the city and state/country of the company. This is especially important for international companies. If the company has more than one office in the same city, you can also specify the street address.
- Date of Writing (Optional). Adding the date you wrote the cover letter gives it a professional touch.
#2. Address the Hiring Manager
Once you've got all your contact information sorted, it's time to address your cover letter to its intended reader — and skip the tired "To Whom It May Concern."
How you start your letter can set the tone and make a strong first impression.
First things first—do a little homework. Browse the job ad, the company's website, or LinkedIn to find out who’s the hiring manager for the architecture role you're eyeing. Their name should be listed on the ad.
Then go ahead and address them respectfully. Using "Ms." or "Mr." followed by their last name is a solid choice. If you're unsure about their gender or marital status, using their full name works fine too.
- Dear Mr. Johnson,
- Dear Emily Johnson,
If you come up empty searching for the hiring manager or department head, no worries. You can address your letter at the department or the company as a whole.
- Dear Architecture Department,
- Dear Hiring Team for Architecture,
- Dear Human Resources Team,
- Dear Head of Architecture,
#3. Write an Eye-Catching Opening Statement
Hiring managers often spend just a few seconds scanning each application. So, nailing the introduction in your architect cover letter is key.
Start your architecture cover letter by stating why you’re writing and why this specific role caught your eye. Expressing genuine interest in the field or the job itself can spark curiosity and make the hiring manager want to read on.
Doing a bit of research about the company can also set you apart from the crowd. The more you understand the company culture, the better you can explain why you’d be a great fit. It shows the hiring manager that you didn't just send out mass applications; you’re genuinely keen on this job.
If you have some experience under your belt, kick off your cover letter with a standout achievement or skill that matches the role perfectly. Keep it brief, though. The goal here is to intrigue the hiring manager just enough to get them to read the rest of your letter.
#4. Use the Cover Letter Body for the Details
The core section of your architecture cover letter should really dig into what makes you the right choice.
The trick here is not to just rehash your architect resume ; this is your chance to elaborate on your skills and show how you can contribute to your future employer.
Make sure to point out some of your most notable achievements related to the field. For example, maybe you played a key role in a sustainable housing project or helped design a community center that won awards. Use the job ad as your guide to tailor these to what the company is looking for.
For example, if the company specializes in green building design, emphasize your experience or skills in sustainability and eco-conscious construction. If they're all about cutting-edge, tech-savvy projects, highlight your familiarity with the latest design software.
It's always good to show that you know about the company. Are you drawn to their innovative approach to urban design, or do you deeply respect their commitment to local communities? Mention it in your cover letter. It shows you're not just tossing applications to the wind—you genuinely want this job at this firm.
If you have an employment gap on your resume , the body of your cover letter is the right place to explain it. Did you take some time off work to travel abroad? Tell the hiring manager how it benefited you and how you came back inspired to work as an architect.
And while you’re at it, let your enthusiasm shine through. Make it clear you're excited about the prospect of contributing to the company with your unique skills and perspective.
Also, make sure to avoid these common cover letter mistakes at all costs!
#5. Wrap It Up and Sign It
Your cover letter ending is like adding the final touch to your architectural blueprint.
It's vital to leave the hiring manager with a good impression and make them remember your enthusiasm and expertise long after they've put your cover letter down.
Your conclusion is your final opportunity to underline your distinct architectural prowess and re-emphasize why you're the ideal fit for the role. You want to make sure this final paragraph affirms everything your cover letter has built up so far.
Once you've reiterated your strong points and relevant skills, invite the hiring manager to further discuss your application. A direct, clear call to action can be what takes you to the next stage of the hiring process.
Finally, it’s time to close your cover letter on the right note. Here’s a neat way to structure it:
I'd appreciate the opportunity to discuss my portfolio and how I can contribute to your team. Please feel free to reach out to me at the provided email or phone number for further discussions.
Warm regards,
While "Warm regards," has a personal touch, you can also consider these other sign-off options:
- Best wishes,
- With appreciation,
- Looking forward to hearing from you,
3 Essential Architecture Cover Letter Tips
You know the basic steps to writing your architect cover letter, so now it’s time to take it to the next level.
Just use these architect cover letter tips to make your application shine:
#1. Match Your Resume
It goes without saying that your job application should reflect your attention to detail and aesthetic.
That means the design of your cover letter complements your resume. If they don't align, it can come off as messy, unprofessional, and unattentive.
Your details and contact information should sit neatly on the page, and you should use a uniform font and size throughout your cover letter and resume. Remember to set the right margins and line spacing—going over or under the recommended limits can make your cover letter look empty or stretched out.
It's like designing a space—everything needs its perfect spot!
Or Use A Cover Letter Template Instead
Feeling stuck? Here's a quick fix.
Why not use our free resume builder and cover letter templates ?
Both our resume and cover letter templates are crafted with insights from hiring managers worldwide to suit your every need. They save time, meet industry standards, and look fantastic.
Dive in and find a template that matches your resume perfectly!
#2. Mention Skills
Your architect cover letter is the place where you should highlight the most relevant skills that make you a great fit for the job.
Your skills can show the hiring manager what you bring to the table. But don't just throw in a random list of architectural skills and call it a day. Instead, weave your skills into your narrative as a candidate and show them how they make you just the person they’re looking for.
For example, if the ad mentions AutoCAD, highlight your familiarity with the software and how it’s contributed to where you are today. This way, you can paint a clearer picture of your abilities and how they align with the role you're pursuing.
#3. Add Any Relevant Links
Including relevant links in your cover letter is as crucial as having them on your resume. By giving the hiring manager a shortcut to your portfolio or LinkedIn profile , you’re getting them to see your past work as soon as possible.
Even if your resume already has links to your portfolio, personal website, or LinkedIn profile, there’s no reason your cover letter shouldn’t have them too. After all, you don’t want the hiring manager to go back and forth between your cover letter and resume in order to find your portfolio.
Embedding links makes evaluating your application seamless for the hiring manager, and they’re sure to appreciate it.
Key Takeaways
And that’s all there is to writing an architect cover letter!
Now that you’ve seen our architect cover letter example and have the full guide, we’re confident you’ll have a spotless application.
Before you go, let’s do a quick recap:
- Make sure your architect cover letter includes a link to your portfolio so the hiring manager can see your previous projects right after reading your cover letter.
- It’s preferable that your architect cover letter be addressed to the hiring manager. Just do a little bit of digging around the job ad to find out what their name is.
- The body of your cover letter should elaborate on all the architectural skills that make you right for the job. Focus on skills you already have that match the job description.
- Don’t forget to sign your cover letter after writing your conclusion. Just add a call to action and an appropriate closing line, followed by your full name at the bottom.
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