Web developer Cover Letter Example

Web developers are the master creators of the digital world. Taking the blueprint that is a simple design, these talented professionals construct software, apps, and programs. Yes, if you can code your way to success, there are countless opportunities out there. 

While your portfolio will do a lot of the heavy lifting, an expertly-written web developer cover letter will help you seal the deal. It’s not merely about the work you’ve produced (although that is important), it’s also about your zest for this growing industry. 

Here at Resume.io, we can help you supercharge your job search and zip up that career ladder. We boast a library of 180+ cover letter examples along with writing guides to help you get moving. In the following writing guide, and web developer cover letter sample, we will break down: 

• How to choose the right format for a web developer cover letter
• How to boost the effectiveness of each cover letter paragraph (header, greeting, intro, body, and conclusion)
• What approach and writing tone to take when writing your cover letter
• Tips on how to win hiring managers over with some writing psychology
• The most common mistakes to avoid when writing your cover letter

Best format for a web developer cover letter

The format of your web developer cover letter matters. It dictates how the application flows and gives it some structure. With that in mind, it should include the following elements: 

• The cover letter header
• The greeting/salutation
• The cover letter intro
• The middle paragraphs (body of the letter)
• The ending paragraph of your cover letter (conclusion and call-to-action)

If you’re unsure about where to start when writing your cover letter, having this structure is a game-changer. Following it — and filling out each section — will help you avoid going off on a tangent. It means that you can make a coherent argument about why you’re the right candidate for the job. If you want more details, check out our complete cover letter guide.

It can be hard to figure out what to write in each section. Luckily, we’re here to help you out. Next up, we will give you the guidance and inspiration you need to get it right.

Cover letter header 

The cover letter header tends to be located at the top of the document. It contains your name, email address, and phone number. You have to make sure that these details are properly displayed. When a hiring manager is wowed by your cover letter — and we can help you make sure they will be! — they will need this information pronto. Make sure that you use a plain typeface and don’t try anything too fancy. Keep it simple and clear. 

Cover letter greeting 

It’s time to put pen to paper. You need to get off on the right footing when writing your cover letter. So, the way that you address the hiring manager is important. You should skip over the worn-out “To Whom it may concern.” Few applicants use this approach and it comes across as overly formal and, frankly, stale. Get more personal in your greeting. 

If possible, you should try to find out the hiring manager’s name. It may be on the original job posting or you may be able to find it on the company website. Once you’ve got it, you can address them directly. For example, you may go for “Dear Mr. Burns.” 

Of course, you won’t always know who will be reading your cover letter. If the whole thing is shrouded in mystery, you need to play it safe. Going for “Dear _____ team” might do the trick. While it lacks personalization, it reads more fluently than other, old-school greetings.

Cover letter introduction 

You only get one chance to make the right first impression. The opening lines of your web developer cover letter should capture the imagination of the hiring manager. What is it about you that sets you apart from the crowd? What unique skills and experience are you bringing to the table? You should consider each of these questions before you start out. 

Don’t convolute the message by trying to include too much information. It’s smarter to focus on one solid selling point than to bring in three different topics. For example, if you have previously worked on a record-breaking app, focus your attention on that. You don’t also need to include that you have a degree and completed an internship. These snippets of information are less impressive and will be clearly stated on your resume. 

Cover letter middle part (body)

The middle paragraphs of cover letters are where you can really sink your teeth into things. Now that you’ve got the hiring manager’s attention, it’s time to give them a few excellent reasons to interview you. You may want to set out by creating a long list of your accomplishments. What feats have you achieved that make you a stellar applicant?

Take a look at your list and think about which points are most likely to catch a hiring manager’s eye. You may want to choose two or three to weave into your cover letter. In each case, include an example that supports your statement. For instance, rather than simply saying that you are “experienced in using JavaScript,” you might write “used JavaScript to build 30+ websites for satisfied clients.” Always be specific when you can. 

How to close a web developer cover letter (conclusion and sign-off)

When you’ve written the bulk of your web developer cover letter, it’s time to sign off. The last thing that a recruiter reads will linger in their mind. Make it count. You want to sound confident in your ability and also share your interest in the position. Why not tell the hiring manager something that makes you uniquely talented? Or, alternately, reaffirm your skills?

Additionally, you can add a call to action, encouraging the reader to contact and formally interview you. There’s no harm in showing how eager you are to move the process along. 

Writing psychology: how to win over recruiters

Recruiters spend the majority of their workday reading incoming applications. Put yourself in their shoes. After some time, all of the letters will start to merge into one. So, how can you make sure that you stand out from the crowd? Here are some approaches to try: 

• Use emotive language. The world of web development is technical, but your cover letter doesn’t have to be. Take the chance to demonstrate your passion for the industry by peppering your application with strong, emotion-led adjectives.
• Talk about the results. There’s a lot to be said for “showing your working” but you need to put the spotlight on the results. What programs have you helped develop and how have they changed people’s lives? Focus on the human side of the job.
• Share your proudest moment. What career milestone has brought you the most joy? Consider highlighting it in your web developer cover letter. This approach lets the reader know that you are highly invested in your career and what you achieve.

Chances are, many of the other applicants will have the same level of experience and education as you. Give the recruiter a taste of your professional personality style.

Web developer cover letter with no experience

Everyone has to start somewhere. If you’re new to the realm of web development, you won’t have a portfolio of work to share. Equally, you may not know what to say in your cover letter. Don’t panic — you can still get recruiters on your side if you pitch it right. 

Your cover letter is the most freeform part of your entire application. Don’t waste the chance to make your case to the hiring manager. Be sure to keep the tone optimistic and future-thinking. The recruiter may be looking for someone with just your gusto.

Take the opportunity to explain why you are sliding into the web development sector. What jobs have you held before now and how do they relate to the move? You may also want to highlight your education. What languages have you learned and how proficient are you?

Basic mistakes in a web developer application letter (and how to avoid them)

Before you hit that “send” button, you need to make sure your cover letter is flawless. Think of this as the alpha testing phase — you’re checking that the application is ready to be launched. Here are some mistakes you need to be on the lookout for.

• Spelling errors and typos. Are you in a rush? If you’re typing super fast, you might make the odd mistake along the way. Make sure you thoroughly proofread your cover letter before you send it to a potential employer.
• Repetitive language. Have you used the same adjective 10 times in your cover letter? Saying that you are “proficient” in multiple things may start to bore the reader. Mix things up with synonyms, such as “accomplished” or “experienced.”
• Dull writing tone. Read your web developer cover letter back to yourself. Does it sound engaging or exciting? If you feel like having a snooze when you’re reading it, it’s time to edit the letter. Adopt a passionate tone of voice to convey enthusiasm.

You may be eager to send your application. However, going over these last few things could make a major difference as to whether you land that all-important job interview. 

Key takeaways

1. The future looks bright for web developers. The booming sector is growing at a faster-than-average rate.
2. Writing an enthusiastic and passionate cover letter will increase your chances of landing your next dream job.
3. Share examples of your prior experience and be specific about the role you played.
4. Take all of the hassle out of writing your application by using one of our market-researched cover letter templates.