Project Manager Cover Letter Example

Project managers play an important role in coordinating complex projects, ensuring that tasks are completed efficiently and on time. 

In New Zealand, project managers command an impressive average salary of approximately $115,000, a testament to their value and indispensable skill set.

Before project managers can begin applying for jobs, however, they’ll need an impressive cover letter that relays their professional accomplishments and strengths. 

In this guide, we’ll explore how to format your project manager cover letter so that it stands out to employers in any industry. 

Project manager full text-only cover letter example

Sections of a project manager cover letter

Here are the most important sections to include in your project manager cover letter:

1. Header: Include the current date and essential contact information, such as your email and phone number, at the top of your cover letter for easy reference.
2. Greeting: Opt for a friendly, professional greeting and use the recipient's name, when known, to help foster an immediate connection.
3. Introduction: Begin with a strong opening that expresses your passion for project management. Elaborate on projects or leadership roles you've undertaken that demonstrate why you're an ideal candidate for the role.
4. Body Paragraphs: In this section, expand upon your project management prowess, discussing key accomplishments and how your experience is a perfect fit for the job's requirements. Highlight any relevant, unique skills and experiences that position you ahead of the competition.
5. Conclusion: Conclude your cover letter by focusing on the major strengths you bring to the table and finish with a strong call to action. Affirm your desire to explore how your project management expertise can advance the goals of the prospective company or employer.
6. Signature: Sign off with a polite and professional closing, followed by your full name.

We recommend keeping your project manager cover letter brief and confined to one page to swiftly highlight your credentials, leadership capabilities, experience, and skills. 

Introduction of a project manager cover letter

Before you start writing your introduction, take time to consider your career trajectory, focusing on how your unique management abilities, experiences, leadership skills, and dedication to delivering successful projects can contribute to your success in a new prospective role. 

An engaging and meaningful introduction will capture the interest of potential employers and organisations, so be sure to use engaging and dynamic language, similar to the language found in the job description. 

Writing your cover letter with clarity and a professional tone is essential, and thorough proofreading for any errors is a must. Refrain from using informal language or slang, as this can signal to employers that you don’t take the job role seriously. 

We recommend having a colleague, friend, or family member review your cover letter, as this can help identify any mistakes or errors you may have missed. 

Project manager cover letter body

No matter what industry you’re in, the body paragraphs of your project manager cover letter should highlight your unique value proposition. To do this, we recommend the following tips: 

• Expand upon any experience you have in project management or related leadership roles.
• Highlight skills that exemplify your strategic planning abilities, your proficiency in risk management, and your commitment to maintaining industry standards and project governance.
• Describe your track record of consistently achieving project goals and the high levels of stakeholder satisfaction you've attained.

First body paragraph: Your suitability for the role (skills & experience)

1. Illustrate your leadership skills: As a project manager, robust communication and problem-solving skills are essential. Detail how you guide your project teams and foster sustainable professional relationships, demonstrating how these skills have helped propel your career forward.
2. Highlight your project management education: If you hold a degree in project management, business administration, or a related field, or have earned project management certifications such as PMP, focus on highlighting these qualifications and certifications.
3. Detail your technical skills: Mention any experience you have with project management tools like Agile, Scrum, Waterfall, or Asana, and expand upon any other technical skills you may have that are relevant to your industry.

Second body paragraph(s): Alignment with the organisation

In the second body paragraph, explain how your project management experience and skills align with the company's values and goals. It’s important to research the company before you do this, taking the time to learn about the company's plans, values, and work culture. 

For example, if you were applying for a project manager role at Watercare, it’d be important to know Watercare’s mission and values. These include: 

• Providing safe, reliable, and efficient wastewater services to the Auckland region
• Prioritising sustainability
• A commitment to exceptional performance every day

With this knowledge, you could discuss how these values are important to you. Have you lived in Auckland your whole life? Do you believe that your specific skills and background could help make you an excellent fit for a project manager role with Watercare? No matter where you are applying, share how your skills in areas like improving processes, making decisions based on data, or focusing on good communication with your team and clients can benefit the company. 

Call to action & conclusion: A captivating close

As you finish your project manager cover letter, remember that your main mission is to convince potential employers that you're the right fit for the job. Since you’re hopeful for an interview, be sure to include a strong call to action statement expressing your desire to connect with employers soon.

Show your excitement for the position and your willingness to talk more about your skills in a detailed discussion. 

End your cover letter on a polite and professional note, with a simple "Kind regards,” "Best wishes," or “ngā mihi nui,” and then sign off your cover letter with your full name. Your final words should leave a good impression, making the employer keen to learn more about you.

Key takeaways

You’re nearly ready to start drafting your project manager cover letter: but before you go, remember to tailor your cover letter content to the job description, elaborate on your leadership skills and your ability to lead teams, and keep your cover letter well-formatted and professional. 

Here at cvapp.nz, we’re passionate about empowering Kiwi job seekers on their career journeys. Try our exclusive cover letter builder or browse our cover letter library to elevate your job search today.