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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 social services-related advice.

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  • Contact information:

    • Make sure your professional cover letter header matches your resume for a cohesive look. 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 social services 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 social worker 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 social worker cover letter

These resume skills and accomplishments are the foundation to building a strong social worker cover letter. Highlight your soft, hard and technical skills to provide exceptional patient care and support within medical settings.

1
Assessment and evaluation:

Proficiency in conducting thorough assessments to determine clients’ needs and evaluate their progress throughout the intervention.

2
Case management:

Demonstrated ability to efficiently manage and coordinate services for multiple clients, ensuring they receive appropriate care and resources.

3
Crisis intervention:

Proven critical thinking skills in addressing and managing crises and providing immediate support to individuals facing emotional or psychological distress.

4
Empowerment techniques:

Expertise in empowering clients to regain control over their lives, fostering self-sufficiency and resilience.

5
Conflict resolution:

Strong aptitude for resolving conflicts and disputes within client relationships or among team members, promoting positive outcomes.

6
Cultural competency:

Sensitivity and competence in working with diverse populations, respecting cultural differences and adapting interventions accordingly.

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Trauma-informed care:

In-depth understanding of trauma’s impact and the analytical ability to provide trauma-informed interventions to promote healing and recovery.

8
Advocacy and outreach:

Proactively advocating for clients’ rights and needs and effective community outreach to connect individuals with vital resources.

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Client-centered approach:

Dedication to tailoring interventions to meet each client’s unique needs, preferences and goals.

10
Documentation and reporting:

Exceptional skills in maintaining detailed and accurate client records, including progress notes, assessments and treatment plans.

11
Resource navigation:

Proficiency in helping clients access community services, benefits and programs to enhance their well-being.

12
Interdisciplinary collaboration:

Interpersonal ability to collaborate effectively with professionals, such as medical practitioners, educators and legal experts, to provide holistic care.

13
Evidence-based practices:

Using research-based interventions and strategies to ensure the most effective treatment approaches.

14
Ethical decision-making:

Commit to upholding ethical standards and making sound decisions in challenging situations.

15
Self-care and burnout prevention:

Dedication to personal well-being and employing strategies to prevent burnout, ensuring sustained high-quality care for clients.

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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 Social Worker Cover Letter Example

Dear Ms. Williams:

When I learned of your need for a social worker, I submitted my resume for your review. My experience coordinating and supporting various social work programs gives me confidence in my ability to significantly benefit your agency.

My background has prepared me to excel in this role, from providing transitional advice to at-need individuals and families to developing and establishing various programs. My ability to connect with patients and establish trusting relationships, along with my strong communication and leadership capabilities, position me to thrive in this position.

Consider the following highlights of my qualifications:

  1. Providing vital support to at-risk clients, assessing needs, developing treatment plans, counseling on significant transitions, coordinating with ancillary treatment providers and completing required case documentation.
  2. Offering on-call 24/7 crisis intervention services, interacting with individuals from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.
  3. Coordinating illness-related support groups — including those for cancer, early dementia, and diabetic patients to encourage open communication and support.
  4. Utilizing superior organizational and interpersonal abilities to provide solutions and support in difficult and stressful situations.
  5. Possess a master’s degree in Psychology and Social Work from Nottingham State College; professional training in Managing and Adapting Therapy (MAP), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), suicide prevention, substance abuse and HIV/AIDS education.\

With my dynamic social work experience and dedication to providing critical assistance to individuals in need, I can swiftly surpass your expectations for this role. I would love the opportunity to discuss the position in further detail.

Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely,

Henrietta B. Griffon

This cover letter is effective because it is well-structured, highlights relevant qualifications and accomplishments, and expresses genuine interest in the position. It also maintains a professional tone throughout.

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.

Social Worker Cover Letter FAQ

Do applicant tracking systems (ATS) scan social worker cover letters for keywords? 

Yes, ATS often scans cover letters. Use relevant keywords from the job description to increase your chances of passing through ATS screening.

What's the preferred format for a social worker cover letter?

Stick to a professional cover letter format: header, salutation, introduction, body with bullet points and a courteous closing with your signature.

How can I use power words effectively in my cover letter? 

Incorporate strong power words to convey accomplishments. Tailor these verbs to the job, showcasing relevant skills and achievements.

Is it crucial to tailor my cover letter to a specific social work job? 

Yes, tailor your cover letter to match the job description. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with the role to stand out as an ideal candidate.

Should I include personal details in my social worker cover letter? 

Avoid personal information. Focus on professional qualifications, experiences and how you can benefit the employer, keeping it job-related.