A handwritten cover letter may seem like a thing of the past, but you might still be asked—or inspired—to write one. While typed cover letters are more common, there are moments when a handwritten one can set you apart, especially in creative industries or for more traditional positions.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to write a handwritten cover letter effectively—with tips and handwritten cover letter examples to guide you.
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Can you handwrite a cover letter?
Yes, you can handwrite a cover letter—but whether it’s the right choice depends on the company culture and role.
“From my experience, a handwritten cover letter can be a nice personal touch in very specific industries, like creative fields, and certain nonprofits–where personal touch matters and tradition are valued,” says Rob Stevenson, founder of BackupLABS.
“In today’s digital age, a handwritten cover letter can help you stand out,” says career coach Melissa Trager. “Most job applications are automated, so delivering a handwritten letter directly to the hiring manager shows extra effort and can differentiate you from other candidates.”
However, in fast-paced tech and corporate environments, experts generally advise against handwritten cover letters. “Time is often limited, and many hiring managers prefer documents they can quickly scan and process, which a handwritten letter complicates,” Stevenson says.
So, you can—but should you?
The answer is generally no. In most cases, handwritten cover letters are considered impractical or outdated. However, in certain circumstances, it can work to your advantage.
Because most applications are now typed and submitted online, “receiving a handwritten letter can feel more personal, making it stand out,” Stevenson says. “You need to know your audience; if done well and used in the right context, it can add a memorable touch to your application.”
That said, to be safe, consider sending one if the job ad specifically requests it.
Pros and cons of handwritten cover letters
To help you figure out if it's worth the extra effort to handwrite your cover letter (unless you’ve already been asked to do so for the job you're applying for—in which case, just skip to the next section on how to write a strong one), here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
- It adds a personal touch, showing extra effort and attention to detail.
- It can help you stand out in creative or traditional industries where uniqueness is valued. “Small businesses or creative roles may appreciate the effort,” Stevenson says.
- It offers a break from the usual typed format, which may catch the employer’s eye.
Cons
- A handwritten cover letter might be harder to read, especially if your handwriting isn’t clear.
- It's less formal—and potentially inappropriate—in corporate or tech-driven environments where typed cover letters are expected.
- It's time-consuming to produce, which may not be worth the risk if the employer prefers digital formats.
- You might not get to include all important information since the one-page rule often applies to cover letters, limiting the space in a handwritten format.
- It can be unrealistic. “In order to deliver the cover letter you would have to find out the company's address, hiring manager's name, and hope that they receive the letter in a timely manner during the recruiting process.” Trager says.
How to write a handwritten cover letter in 6 steps
Approach a handwritten cover letter with care to ensure it’s both professional and polished. If the job ad requests it or you believe it may help you stand out, follow these six easy steps to create a standout letter:
- Choose the right materials: Select high-quality paper and a smooth pen to ensure legibility and a professional appearance. A cover letter can be handwritten on notepaper, but it’s important to opt for a clean, simple paper to maintain a polished appearance.
- Write a rough draft: Before committing to the final version, draft your letter on a separate sheet or digitally. This lets you refine your ideas and avoid any unnecessary corrections.
- Format like a typed cover letter: Follow the same structure as a typed letter, including your contact information, the date, the recipient’s details, and a proper salutation.
- Write clearly and neatly: Take your time to ensure your handwriting is legible and consistent. Neatness is essential for maintaining a professional image.
- Tailor your cover letter: Customize the content to fit the specific job and company. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with the role, demonstrating that you’ve done your homework.
- Proofread for perfection: Carefully review your letter for spelling and grammar mistakes, and ensure the writing flows smoothly.
Handwritten cover letter examples
A handwritten cover letter can offer a unique way to present yourself. Below are a few examples to help you tailor your letter to different scenarios.
Example #1: Handwritten application letter for teaching job
Dear [Principal’s Name],
I am writing to express my enthusiasm for the teaching position at [School Name]. As an educator with a passion for fostering student growth and creativity, I am confident that my experience aligns well with the values of your school. I have a strong background in both classroom management and curriculum development, and I am committed to creating a nurturing and inclusive learning environment for all students.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your school community.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example #2: Handwritten application letter for an entry-level job
Dear [Hiring Manager],
I am writing to apply for the Junior Designer position at [Company Name]. While I am just beginning my career in interior design, my passion for aesthetics and my hands-on experience with various creative projects have helped me develop a strong eye for detail and a deep appreciation for functional spaces. I am eager to contribute fresh ideas to your design team and grow professionally in a collaborative environment. I believe my creativity, dedication, and enthusiasm for design would make me a valuable asset to your firm.
Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example #3: Handwritten application letter for a creative role
Dear [Hiring Manager],
I am writing to express my interest in the Graphic Designer position at [Company Name]. As a creative professional with a passion for innovative design, I believe my skills align perfectly with your needs. My experience in digital and print media, combined with a keen eye for detail, enables me to deliver visually compelling solutions. I would love the opportunity to contribute to your team and bring fresh ideas to life.
Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Bonus tips to ace a handwritten cover letter
Writing a handwritten cover letter takes more than just putting pen to paper—it’s about ensuring that every detail reflects professionalism and care. Here are a few additional tips to help your letter make a great impression.
- Keep it concise: Avoid long paragraphs and unnecessary details. Aim for a letter that is clear, concise, and to the point.
- Use appropriate language: Maintain a professional tone throughout the letter. Avoid overly casual language while still letting your personality shine through.
- Maintain consistent spacing: Ensure your line spacing and margins are consistent to give your letter a polished, organized appearance.
- Avoid excessive decorations: Keep your letter professional by avoiding overly decorative handwriting styles or unnecessary embellishments like doodles or flourishes.
- Protect the paper: Be careful not to wrinkle or wet the paper. Ensure it stays clean and crisp, as a flawless presentation is key to making a strong first impression.
Key takeaways
So, should a cover letter be handwritten or typed? It really depends on the situation. In creative or traditional roles, a well-crafted handwritten letter can help you stand out and highlight your attention to detail. “However, handwritten cover letters might not be a good fit in today’s hiring process, where digital submissions are the norm, and anything outside of that can seem like a hassle,” Stevenson says.
This is especially true in corporate or technology industries, where the fast pace “may make a handwritten cover letter seem outdated and raise doubts about your technological skills and time management,” Trager says. Ultimately, the choice between handwriting or typing your cover letter depends on the company’s culture, so tailoring your approach is essential.