Want a stronger cover letter?

Use our extensive library of good cover letter examples as practical starting guides. You’ll also find ready-made content with our helpful Cover Letter Builder simply click, customize and download.

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How to Format Your Cover Letter

Visit our helpful cover letter format and writing guide for additional advice on how to customize your application, or read on to find administrative-related advice.

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  • Contact information

    • For a cohesive look, make sure your professional cover letter header matches your resume. Include your name, phone number and email.

  • Date and recipient's mailing information

    • Visit the company’s directory to research the hiring manager and contact info. Add the date of writing, followed by the manager’s name, job title, and professional mailing address.

  • Greeting

    • Begin the letter with a professional salutation. We prefer the following formal greetings: “Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name,” “Hello, Mr./Ms. Last Name,” or the last resort, “To whom it may concern.”

  • Introduction

    • Add the name of the position and company, how you learned about it, and one administrative skill or accomplishment to advertise your suitability in this opening paragraph.

  • Body

    • Use one or two paragraphs to elaborate on one or two accomplishments listed on your office assistant resume. The goal is to quantify your training further and prove your proficiency. 

  • Closing statement

    • In the final paragraph, reiterate your interest and qualifications. Express your eagerness to discuss your candidacy in an interview further.

  • Signature

    • End the letter with a formal closing followed by your full name and, if applicable, your professional titles or certifications. Acceptable signatures include “Salutations,” “Best,” or “Regards.”

Use skills to personalize your office assistant cover letter

These resume skills and accomplishments can be a strong foundation for a compelling office assistant cover letter, highlighting your soft skills, hard skills and technical skills.

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Data management

Proficiently handling and organizing data using spreadsheets, databases and software to ensure accurate and accessible information.

2
Document formatting

Skillfully formatting and editing documents, reports and presentations to maintain a professional and consistent appearance.

3
Office software proficiency

Expertise utilizing Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) or equivalent software for efficient task execution.

4
Calendar management

Efficiently scheduling appointments, meetings, events and coordinating calendars to optimize time management.

5
File organization

Methodically organizing electronic and physical files, ensuring quick retrieval and maintaining a clutter-free workspace.

6
Email correspondence

Effectively managing and responding to emails, prioritizing communication and maintaining clear and professional correspondence.

7
Data entry

Accurately inputting and updating information into databases or systems, minimizing errors and ensuring data integrity.

8
Tech troubleshooting

Diagnosing and resolving minor technical issues with office equipment, software or communication tools to ensure smooth operations.

9
Inventory management

Skill in tracking and replenishing office supplies, maintaining optimal inventory levels for a seamless workflow.

10
Remote collaboration tools

Familiarity with Slack, Microsoft Teams or Zoom tools for effective communication and collaboration in remote or hybrid work environments.

11
Printer and scanner operation

Proficiency in operating office equipment like printers and scanners for document reproduction and digitization.

12
Multitasking

Successfully managing multiple tasks and projects simultaneously, prioritizing and delivering on deadlines.

13
Basic accounting knowledge

Understanding fundamental accounting principles for expense tracking, invoicing or reconciling petty cash.

14
Database entry and retrieval

Competence in entering data into databases, querying information and generating reports to support decision-making.

15
Administrative software

Familiarity with office-specific software (e.g., Adobe Acrobat, Google Workspace) to perform tasks efficiently and enhance productivity.

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PRO TIP:

Don’t overstuff your cover letter — limit yourself to one or two skills so you can adequately highlight your accomplishments. Prioritize skills or achievements requested on the job advertisement to score well on applicant tracking systems (ATS). Visit our ATS resume article to learn more about these tools.

Free Office Assistant Cover Letter Example

Dear Mr. Lee:

Upon learning of your posting for an Office Assistant, I hastened to submit my resume for your review. As an experienced and organized professional with exceptional interpersonal and organizational abilities, I am prepared to contribute to your company’s goals and objectives significantly.

My expertise lies in performing a full range of administrative operations and driving office efficiency within detail-oriented, deadline-driven environments. Bookkeeping, correspondence, reports, calendar maintenance, meetings, and special event coordination are just a few of the areas in which I excel. With my key ability to prioritize tasks and collaborate with peers and management teams, I stand fully prepared to offer an exceptional level of office support service to your team at Lee & Sons.

Highlights of my experience include:

  1. Performing various administrative operations, including schedule management, report generation, accounts payable/receivable, and general reception.
  2. Achieving business-development efforts while suggesting and implementing effective processes and procedures for maximum efficiency and productivity.
  3. Demonstrating solid time management and organizational skills, Microsoft Office proficiency, and effective customer service strategies.

My office organization and general administration skills have been finely honed, and I am confident my additional strengths will readily translate to your environment. The chance to offer more insight into my qualifications would be most welcome. Thank you for your consideration; I look forward to speaking with you soon.

Sincerely,

Elizabeth C. Madera

This cover letter presents the candidate as a qualified and motivated individual ready to contribute to the company’s growth and operations. It is effective for several reasons:

Add a Resume as a Foundational Base

A cover letter helps promote your resume — but your resume acts as an essential building block for your job search. This concise summary helps hiring managers trace your training, experience, skill development and accomplishments. The following help articles, online tools and samples can help you improve your resume.

Office Assistant Cover Letter FAQ

How do I optimize my cover letter for applicant tracking systems (ATS)?

Incorporate relevant keywords from the job description naturally to ensure ATS compatibility and enhance your chances of getting noticed.

Are action verbs important in my cover letter?

Yes, action verbs add impact, effectively showcasing your skills and accomplishments and making your cover letter more engaging and persuasive.

How can I tailor my cover letter to a specific office assistant position?

To tailor your cover letter to a specific office assistant position, highlight relevant skills and experiences that directly align with the job’s requirements, demonstrating your suitability and enthusiasm for the role.

Should I include non-office-related experiences in my cover letter?

Include experiences demonstrating transferable skills such as organization, communication or teamwork, even from non-office settings.

How important is addressing the hiring manager by name in my cover letter?

Addressing the hiring manager personally shows attention to detail and interest in the position, making a positive first impression.