How to End a Cover Letter: Closings That Get Replies
Strong cover letter closings and sign-offs that get replies from Tanzanian employers, plus what to include under your signature.
Alexander Phillip
Career Coach and Recruitment Expert
A weak ending can undo a strong middle paragraph. The close is the last thing the recruiter reads, so it must leave them with confidence and a clear next step.
This guide shows you how to end a cover letter the right way. We cover closing lines, sign-offs, and what to put under your name. If you want the whole letter written for you, use our free cover letter builder.
What a Good Close Must Do
A strong closing paragraph does three things in two or three sentences. It restates your value, thanks the reader, and asks for the next step. Do not introduce new information here.
Close checklist
- Restate value in one line. Remind the reader why you fit.
- Say thank you. One polite sentence is enough.
- Ask for the interview. Make it easy for the employer to act.
- Keep it short. Two to three sentences is ideal.
6 Closing Lines That Work
1. Direct ask
"I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my experience in retail sales can support your team at TBL. Thank you for considering my application."
2. Restate value and ask
"With my background in community health and donor reporting, I am confident I can contribute to your NGO's programmes. I look forward to the opportunity to interview."
3. Enthusiastic close
"I am excited about the possibility of bringing my customer service skills to NMB Bank. Thank you for your time and consideration."
4. Short and professional
"Thank you for considering my application. I am available for an interview at your convenience."
5. Confident close
"I believe my track record of reducing costs and improving processes makes me a strong fit for this role. I would welcome the chance to discuss further."
6. Close for government roles
"I have attached all required documents as listed in the advert. I remain ready to provide any further information and to attend an interview if shortlisted."
The Sign-Off Ladder
Choose your sign-off based on how formal the role is.
| Sign-off | When to use it |
|---|---|
| Yours sincerely | When you know the recipient's name. Common for formal roles. |
| Yours faithfully | When you do not know the recipient's name. More traditional. |
| Best regards | Professional and slightly warmer. Safe for most roles. |
| Kind regards | Polite and friendly. Good for NGOs and smaller companies. |
Quick tip: Avoid casual sign-offs like "Cheers" or "Thanks" in formal applications. They can make you sound too relaxed.
Write your cover letter in about 5 minutes, free
Answer a few questions and CV Chap Chap writes a clean first draft you can edit and download. No payment needed for the letter.
Start my cover letterWhat Goes Under the Signature
For electronic applications, you do not need a scanned handwritten signature. Type your full name below the sign-off. If you want, you can add one line with your phone number or email for convenience.
For example
Yours sincerely,
Grace Mwakasege
+255 712 345 678
grace.mwakasege@email.com
Closings to Avoid
Weak closings that hurt your letter
- "I hope to hear from you soon." This is passive. Use "I look forward to your reply" instead.
- "Please find attached my CV." The recruiter already expects attachments.
- "Thank you for your precious time." It sounds overly submissive.
- Any new information. The close is not the place to add new skills or experience.
How Long Should the Close Be?
A closing paragraph should be two to four sentences. Any shorter feels abrupt. Any longer introduces new information that belongs earlier.
Too short
"Thanks. John."
Too long
"Thank you for considering my application. I believe I have the skills, experience, and attitude needed for this role. I am also proficient in Excel, QuickBooks, and Tally. In my previous role, I managed a team of five people. I am available for an interview at your convenience."
Just right
"I would welcome the opportunity to bring my accounting experience to your finance team. Thank you for considering my application. I am available for an interview at your convenience."
How to Match the Close to the Opening
If your opening promised a result, your close should refer back to it. If your opening showed enthusiasm for the mission, your close should reaffirm that fit. This makes the letter feel complete.
Matched pair
Opening: "I am applying for the Sales Representative role at TBL. In my current position, I exceeded quarterly sales targets for four consecutive quarters."
Close: "I would welcome the opportunity to bring the same sales discipline to TBL. Thank you for considering my application."
Your opening and closing should work as a pair. Read our guide on how to start a cover letter to make sure the beginning is just as strong. For email applications, see our guide on email cover letters.
Write your cover letter in about 5 minutes, free
Answer a few questions and CV Chap Chap writes a clean first draft you can edit and download. No payment needed for the letter.
Start my cover letterFrequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to end a cover letter?
Restate your value in one line, thank the reader, and ask for an interview. Keep the closing paragraph to two or three sentences.
Should I write "Yours sincerely" or "Yours faithfully"?
Use "Yours sincerely" when you know the recipient's name. Use "Yours faithfully" when you do not. "Best regards" and "Kind regards" are also safe for modern applications.
Do I need a handwritten signature on an electronic cover letter?
No. For email or online applications, typing your full name below the sign-off is standard. A scanned signature is optional and usually unnecessary.
Can I add new information in the closing paragraph?
No. The closing paragraph should only restate value, thank the reader, and ask for the next step. Introducing new information here looks disorganized.
Write your cover letter in about 5 minutes, free
Answer a few questions and CV Chap Chap writes a clean first draft you can edit and download. No payment needed for the letter.
Start my cover letter