As a data analyst, you know the importance of gathering information and putting it together to gain critical insight. That’s exactly what your cover letter helps hiring managers do.
A vague, boring, or disorganized cover letter risks letting hiring managers miss out on important data about your qualifications. Instead, set yourself up for success with a well-written cover letter that displays front and center why you’re exactly the data analyst they need, no further analysis is required.
August 17, 2022
Dear Ms. Malcolm,
In an era of increased competition from all sides, high-end hotel chains need to maximize the efficiency of their operations, while continuing to offer guests an unrivaled stay. My data discoveries helped my previous employer to increase occupancy rates from 85% to 94%. Such improvements allow for the financial freedom to offer guests a truly individual service. I believe data science could help East98 gain such an edge in a hyper-competitive market.
No matter how awe-inspiring the décor, or how prestigious the location, no hotel can provide a premium service if the machine is spluttering. I realize that the data analyst role is new to your organization. But I’m confident that within the first 60 days, I’ll be able to identify at least 10 projects that will improve your bottom line, and therefore the guest experience.
I obtained my Data Science degree from UCLA. During my studies and for two years after graduation, I worked for Ahhor hotels. My current job search was prompted by a decision to relocate to New York.
I am a competent programmer, with extensive knowledge of software and data management systems. My adeptness at presenting data to a senior audience using the latest visualization tools is also an asset. Above all, my achievements at Ahhor would surely be relevant to any future role:
Data analysts look beyond the “this is how things are done around here”mindset, instead presenting what needs to happen with cold, hard numbers. I would love to begin a discussion about the challenges that you face over the coming years. During an interview, I could offer some insights into the data difference I could bring to your business.
Yours sincerely,
Carmine DeCienzo
Developing a data analyst cover letter is like reporting on a data set; you will provide insight into your past experience, your qualifications, and your capacity for future achievements. Each piece of your cover letter has a role to play:
Each section of your cover letter should come together to make the case about why the company should call you in for an interview. Be as concise as possible and aim for a one-page cover letter.
If you’re looking for additional inspiration for cover letter writing, check out some of our other information technology cover letter examples, including:
If you’d like more information about cover letters and details that cover each section, check out our article on how to write a cover letter.
Once you’ve crafted your header and addressed the hiring manager, it’s time to start your introduction.
To effectively start a cover letter for a data analyst role, highlight a standout achievement right away. This will encourage the hiring manager to keep reading and see what else you have to share.
Perhaps it’s an extremely large and difficult data set you've worked with, or an especially innovative project you led with data-driven insights.
Dear Ms. Malcolm,
In an era of increased competition from all sides, high-end hotel chains need to maximize the efficiency of their operations, while continuing to offer guests an unrivaled stay. My data discoveries helped my previous employer to increase occupancy rates from 85% to 94%. Such improvements allow for the financial freedom to offer guests a truly individual service. I believe data science could help East98 gain such an edge in a hyper-competitive market.
Hello, my name is Alex, and I am interested in the data analyst position. I have over three years of experience and love working with data.
Whatever you choose to showcase, make it as vivid as possible. Don’t just say that you “led the charge to analyze customer data”—instead, share that your efforts “led to a 40% increase in customer retention.” A specific, quantifiable example adds credibility, doing more than just listing your qualifications.
In the body of your cover letter, follow a clear template:
Get into the meat of your letter by showing off exactly why your background aligns with the role. Make sure to read over the job posting and make sure you hit their most important requirements.
Weave your qualifications and experience into an engaging narrative:
The next part of your cover letter should go beyond why you’re a fit for the role, and instead talk about why this company is appealing to you. Start by doing research into the company’s mission and culture and tailor the letter accordingly. Your goal is to show how you are aligned with their future success.
For instance, if you were applying to a data analyst role at Lifehouse Hotels. Their website calls out some key points and focus areas:
If any of this resonates with you, you could incorporate stories about your own travel experiences or other adventures, showing how your passion for travel connects to your motivation to work with the company’s data. Even sharing a poignant travel or hotel experience from childhood or another important time in your life can be meaningful.
No matter how awe-inspiring the décor, or how prestigious the location, no hotel can provide a premium service if the machine is spluttering. I realize that the data analyst role is new to your organization. But I’m confident that within the first 60 days, I’ll be able to identify at least 10 projects that will improve your bottom line, and therefore the guest experience.
I obtained my Data Science degree from UCLA. During my studies and for two years after graduation, I worked for Ahhor hotels. My current job search was prompted by a decision to relocate to New York.
I am a competent programmer, with extensive knowledge of software and data management systems. My adeptness at presenting data to a senior audience using the latest visualization tools is also an asset. Above all, my achievements at Ahhor would surely be relevant to any future role:
Wrap up your cover letter with a quick recap, a thank-you, and a call to action. Make it clear that you’re eager to hear back from the employer to set up an interview. Express confidence that you would be a real asset to the company, and demonstrate your enthusiasm for working there.
Don’t forget, it’s always a good idea to express your gratitude and appreciation for their time.
End on a confident but respectful note with a call to action that motivates the employer to follow up.
Data analysts look beyond the “this is how things are done around here”mindset, instead presenting what needs to happen with cold, hard numbers. I would love to begin a discussion about the challenges that you face over the coming years. During an interview, I could offer some insights into the data difference I could bring to your business.
Yours sincerely,
Carmine DeCienzo
Sign off with your name as a final touch to leave the best impression.
If you’re a recent graduate, a student seeking an internship, or making a career pivot into data analytics, your cover letter should detail your transferable skills and your enthusiasm for the industry.
Focus on these points:
These points will come together to make up for the lack of direct experience in your cover letter and provide helpful data to the reader.
Consider ATS
An applicant tracking system (ATS) is a software system used by companies to manage applications. Some advanced systems offer tools to filter and sort applications based on how well they align with the job posting.
For the best success, review the data analyst job posting and identify important keywords. Then, incorporate them naturally in your cover letter.
Example:
The best data analyst cover letters highlight your relevant skills, accomplishments, and passion for the industry. It’s important to get it right.
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