How To Write An SEO Cover Letter (With Template And Example)

Updated 25 March 2023

Search engine optimisation (SEO) is a fundamental part of content creation for websites, blogs and social media. If you are applying for an SEO job, employers may ask for a cover letter with your resume, explaining your experience and suitability for the job. Knowing how to write a convincing cover letter that highlights your skills and achievements can help you make a good first impression on hiring managers. In this article, we discuss what an SEO cover letter is, explain its importance, show you how to write an effective letter, and provide a template and an example to guide you.

Please note that none of the companies, institutions or organisations mentioned in this article are associated with Indeed.

What Is An SEO Cover Letter?

An SEO cover letter forms part of your job application for an SEO role. It highlights your experience, and skills related to improving the visibility and ranking of a website on search engines. The letter emphasises your understanding of SEO best practices, and techniques including your ability to analyse and optimise a website for search engines. It can also demonstrate your passion for SEO and your ability to effectively communicate your ideas and strategies. Its goal is to convince hiring managers that you are a good fit for the role and can be an asset to the company.

How To Write An SEO Cover Letter?

Consider the following steps for writing a convincing cover letter:

1. Research job descriptions

Before you begin writing your cover letter, research the job descriptions of jobs that interest you. Search for the skills and qualifications that employers want in candidates. This can help you decide what to include in your cover letter. It may be helpful to write a cover letter you can send to several companies but ensure the final version of your letter is specific to the company to which you are applying.

2. Include your contact information

Write your contact information at the start of your letter. If you are submitting your letter at the same time as your resume, you can match the formatting for a more cohesive appearance. Ensure your information is easy to read. This can make it easier for recruiters to find your email or phone number and contact you with requests for additional information or to arrange an interview. Include your name, a phone number and an email address that you check regularly. Some people also include a home address, but this is optional.

3. Write a thoughtful greeting

Beneath your contact information, write the date and the name of the company. To start your letter, try to find the name of its most likely recipient. This may require some research. The job advertisement might have the hiring manager's name or the company's website might show who may review your letter. Alternatively, call the company and ask for the name of the person holding interviews for the position. If you are unable to find the name of the interviewer or hiring manager, you can start your letter with a generic greeting.

5. Introduce yourself

In opening your letter, introduce yourself and explain your interest in the position. Mention how you heard about the job or why the prospect of working for the company excites you. This lets hiring managers know you are an enthusiastic candidate. Research the company before submitting your letter. Including details from its website in your explanation for why you want to work there can show prospective employers you care about the position and wrote your letter intentionally.

6. Highlight your qualifications

In the main body of your letter, explain your experience and highlight your abilities. This is a good time to mention your previous experience working with SEO and your interest in developing your skills in a new role. Give specific examples of your skills or emphasise how your education or work experience has prepared you to excel in an SEO-related position.

7. Relate your skills to the role

When outlining your skills, and experience explain their relevance and how they qualify you for this job. Explain your abilities and how you can be a valuable employee. Relate everything you include in your letter directly to the position and why you are a good fit. Some skills you can include are keyword research, technical SEO, on-page optimisation and analytics.

8. Conclude your letter

End your cover letter by expressing your enthusiasm for the role and reiterating your interest. Offer to provide additional information or answer any questions the hiring manager may have. Choose a formal sign-off, such as sincerely or respectfully and sign your name.

9. Edit your letter

Before sending your cover letter to prospective employers, revise it for clarity, spelling and grammatical errors. Read your letter for tone and keep the language positive and friendly. If you are sending it to several employers, make sure you have included all the right company information. Consider asking a friend or colleague to review your letter. They might find an error you missed or have helpful advice on ways to improve its content.

Why Are Cover Letters Important For SEO Jobs?

Cover letters are important for SEO jobs because they provide a way for you to highlight your skills, experience, and qualifications in a more personal and detailed way than a resume. A well-written cover letter can help you tell your story and explain why you are a good fit for the job you are applying for. This can give recruiters a better understanding of your background, skills and motivation, which can be significant in a highly competitive field such as SEO.

A cover letter can help you distinguish yourself from other candidates and make a strong impression on hiring managers. You can also use it to address any gaps in your resume, such as little or no relevant experience and to explain why you are still the best candidate.

Cover Letter Template For An SEO Job

Here is a cover letter template that you can use to write your letter:

[First name] [Last name], [Degree or certification if applicable]
[Phone number] | [Email address] | [City], [State or Union territory]
[Date]
[Company Name]

Dear hiring manager,

[Express excitement for the position, including the role title and the company name.] [Introduce yourself by explaining why you are applying for the job, how the job aligns with your career goals and what specifically draws you to the company.]

[Explain your relevant experience and qualifications without repeating what is in your resume.] [Highlight one to two relevant achievements with facts and data when possible.] [Explain why you would be a good fit for the company.] [Optional: address employment gap or career transition.]

[Express gratitude]. [Summarise qualification]. [Restate interest in role]. [Call to action + availability and preferred contact method].

[Complimentary close],

[Signature]

Example Cover Letter For An SEO Job

Here is an example cover letter that you can use for inspiration while writing your letter:

Raj Shah, Bachelor of Computer Science +91-9595632312 | shahraj@email.com | Bangalore, Karnataka

10 February 2023
Everywhere Content

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the SEO Specialist position at Everywhere Content. With three years of experience in the field, I have developed a strong understanding of the latest SEO techniques and best practices. I am confident that my technical knowledge and practical experience make me a strong candidate for this role.

In my current position as an SEO Consultant at FastReach, I have been responsible for managing successful SEO campaigns for a variety of clients in different industries. I have a proven track record of increasing website visibility, and traffic through effective keyword research, on-page optimisation and link-building strategies. I am also familiar with a range of tools and technologies that I use to perform detailed website audits and track the success of my campaigns.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss my qualifications and how I can contribute to your team. You may contact me at the phone number or email address listed at the start of this letter.

Sincerely,
Raj Shah