Cover Letters

Should I Provide a Cover Letter? Best Practices for Including a Cover Letter

When do you include a cover letter?

During the application process

  • Providing a cover letter is optional unless required by the employer.
  • Check the job listing on the TD Jobs marketplace by clicking the "Learn More" button to review the application documentation requirements.
  • If your work history doesn’t fully align with the job’s requirements, consider including a cover letter, updating your profile, or both to strengthen your application.

Some employers offer the following options:

  • Write a cover letter directly in their applicant tracking system.
  • Upload a cover letter as a file.
  • Apply without a cover letter.
  • Alternatively, you can include your cover letter in the body of your email when submitting your application.

Best Practices for Providing a Cover Letter in the Sports Industry

  1. Tailor Your Cover Letter

    • Customize your cover letter to the specific job and organization. Mention the role you're applying for and why you're a good fit, showing that you've done your research.
  2. Showcase Relevant Experience

    • Highlight experiences directly related to the sports industry, such as coaching, event management, athlete development, or marketing for sports teams. Use quantifiable achievements to demonstrate your impact (e.g., "Increased event attendance by 25%", "Coached five All-Americans during my tenure at..." ).
  3. Emphasize Industry Passion

    • Show genuine enthusiasm for the sports industry. Employers value candidates who are passionate about the field and understand its culture.
  4. Highlight Transferable Skills

    • Mention transferable skills like teamwork, leadership, communication, or event planning, which are highly valued in the sports industry.
  5. Use a Professional Tone

    • Maintain a professional yet engaging tone that reflects your personality. Be confident and concise without being overly formal.
  6. Include Key Achievements

    • Highlight any certifications, notable projects, or accolades relevant to the role, such as organizing large-scale events or obtaining sports-related certifications (e.g., CPR, coaching credentials).
  7. Align with the Organization’s Goals

    • Reference the organization’s mission or recent accomplishments to show alignment with their values and vision.
  8. Keep It Concise

    • Limit your cover letter to one page. Use a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a strong conclusion.
  9. Proofread Carefully

    • Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors. A well-written letter demonstrates attention to detail and professionalism.
  10. Include a Call to Action

  • End with a confident call to action, such as requesting an interview or expressing eagerness to discuss how you can contribute to their team.

Example Closing

"I’m excited about the opportunity to bring my skills in [specific skill] to [organization name]. I would welcome the chance to contribute to your team and discuss how my background aligns with your goals. Thank you for considering my application."

By following these best practices, you can craft a compelling cover letter that stands out in the competitive sports industry.