When you start applying for jobs, you quickly realise that including a cover letter with your CV is a excellent way to stand out. But what should your cover letter focus on?
Should it emphasise your key achievements or simply list your responsibilities? And how can you effectively demonstrate that you're the ideal fit for the role?
One of the most common mistakes candidates make is either underselling themselves or overstating their experience.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to craft a compelling cover letter by showcasing your most significant professional achievement and telling the story behind it.
Cover letter examples for server
Explore additional server cover letter samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.
By Experience
Lead Server Engineer
- Key achievements and metrics: The cover letter effectively highlights quantifiable achievements, such as reducing downtime by 30% and operational costs by 20% through strategic automation and server upgrades, demonstrating ROI and impact.
- Relevant certifications and courses: Certification as a VMware Certified Professional is prominently mentioned, showcasing expertise in VMware infrastructure management, which is critical for a Senior Server Engineer role.
- Task automation and scripting skills: Emphasising skills in automating repetitive tasks and using PowerShell scripting illustrates proficiency in enhancing operational efficiency and resource utilisation.
- Collaboration and leadership in projects: The cover letter highlights collaboration with cross-functional teams and leading technical projects, underscoring the candidate’s capacity to drive successful outcomes and improve system performance.
Junior Server Technician
- Emphasising specific certifications, such as the Cisco certified course on Network Configuration and Management, provides credibility and showcases specialised expertise relevant to IT roles.
- Highlighting quantifiable achievements, such as a 30% reduction in response time and improved network reliability, helps demonstrate past success and potential value to future employers.
- Detailing a variety of skills, from 1st and 2nd line support to IT fault diagnosis and customer support, emphasises versatility and capability in handling the diverse demands of an IT Technician role.
- Including relevant work experience with specific responsibilities and achievements at previous companies, like Capita IT & Networks, offers concrete evidence of practical performance and industry experience.
Senior Server Analyst
- Highlight Specific Certifications: The cover letter effectively mentions relevant certifications, such as "Microsoft Sentinel Mastery" and "Advanced Threat Detection with Splunk," which are vital for showcasing expertise in specialised tools for the SOC Analyst role.
- Emphasise Relevant Experience: Significant roles in leading cybersecurity organisations like BAE Systems, Thales Group, and Lockheed Martin are included, providing credibility and demonstrating practical, high-stakes experience in improving security postures.
- Showcase Specific Achievements: The cover letter includes quantifiable achievements such as a "30% improvement in threat response times" and "50% reduction in false positive alerts," highlighting the candidate's ability to deliver measurable outcomes.
- Mention Strong Soft Skills: Skills like leading teams and conducting regular training sessions are highlighted, indicating not only technical proficiency but also leadership and communication strengths crucial for a senior SOC Analyst position.
By Role
Server Administrator
- Emphasises achievements in optimising SQL infrastructure, which directly correlate with cost-saving benefits and improved performance—key qualities for an SQL Administrator role.
- Highlights language proficiency in English and Spanish, which is beneficial when collaborating across multi-lingual teams or global projects.
- Makes note of advanced certifications and courses such as "Advanced SQL Performance Tuning" which validate specialised expertise and commitment to continuous professional development.
- Includes a strong, concise summary that captures years of experience while articulating a clear objective to leverage skills for strategic organisational improvement, an alignment crucial for senior administrative roles in IT.
Server Support Specialist
- Highlighting specific achievements in automation and optimisation, such as improving server uptime by 25% and reducing manual intervention by 40%, which are critical for the role of a Linux Server Support Specialist.
- Emphasising advanced skills in Linux system administration, shell scripting, and security implementation, which align well with the specialised requirements of the position.
- Showcasing certifications, like the Certified Linux Administrator, which demonstrate a formal qualification and expertise in advanced Linux system administration, enhancing the candidate's credibility.
- Mentioning participation in open source projects and cybersecurity awareness, which reflect both a passion for continuous learning and an engagement with industry trends, appealing traits for a candidate in IT roles.
Dining Room Server
- Relevant Experience: Highlighting over 6 years of hospitality management experience with specific achievements such as enhancing guest satisfaction by 30% demonstrates a strong track record in the field.
- Leadership and Training: The mention of leadership in managing a team and organising training programs that increased professionalism by 50% showcases valuable leadership and team development skills.
- Event Coordination Expertise: Reference to organising dining events for up to 100 residents and special dining events enhances the applicant's suitability for a role focused on creating exceptional dining experiences.
- Education and Certifications: Including qualifications such as a Bachelor of Arts in Hospitality Management and relevant courses like Food Safety Management Training ensures the candidate's academic and practical knowledge are highlighted.
Server Operations Manager
- Emphasise proven leadership skills by highlighting experience in successfully managing efficiency and collaboration through clear examples, such as the 18% campaign efficiency improvement at Sky.
- Showcase expertise in dynamic ad insertion and operational efficiencies, which is crucial in the role of Ad Operations Manager, by mentioning relevant courses like the IAB UK certified course and achievements in this area.
- Highlight vendor management abilities with specific achievements, such as securing a 100% success rate in managing diverse vendor networks, demonstrating capacity to ensure business continuity and operational diversity.
- Underpin a commitment to continual learning and professional development through participation in courses and projects that drive innovation and cross-functional collaboration, such as the Google Academy course.
Server Infrastructure Architect
- Emphasise Key Achievements: Successfully highlights specific accomplishments such as a 35% improvement in system efficiency and a 15% reduction in costs, demonstrating tangible value added to previous employers.
- Relevant Certifications and Courses: Mentions courses like 'Advanced Virtualization Techniques' and 'Kubernetes for Developers,' aligning with the technical skills required for an Infrastructure Architect role.
- Technical Skills and Tools: Effectively showcases expertise in critical skills such as VMware, Docker, Kubernetes, and cloud platforms like AWS and Azure, which are crucial for cloud computing and infrastructure roles.
- Collaborative Experience: Details the ability to work with cross-functional and networking teams, beneficial for roles that require coordination between different technical and business units.
Server Maintenance Technician
- Highlighting Achievements: The cover letter effectively highlights Scarlett's significant contributions, such as a 30% reduction in maintenance costs and a 20% increase in operational efficiency, showcasing measurable achievements that align with key responsibilities of a Facilities Engineer.
- Relevant Certifications: Emphasising certifications like the "Electrical Installation Certification" provides credible evidence of technical expertise, crucial for a role that involves managing electrical systems and ensuring safety compliance.
- Skills Alignment: The letter aligns Scarlett's skills in Preventative Maintenance, HVAC Systems, and Safety Compliance with the core competencies required in facilities engineering, demonstrating a strong fit for the role.
- Passion and Cultural Fit: By expressing passions such as 'Sustainable Engineering Practices' and 'Historical Architecture Preservation,' the cover letter demonstrates compatibility with industry trends and potential organisational values, which can be appealing to employers focused on sustainability and heritage conservation.
Banquet Server
- Highlighting specific achievements in improving guest satisfaction, such as the 30% rise through strategic service improvements, effectively underlines the candidate's capability to enhance customer experiences, a crucial skill set for a Banqueting Specialist.
- Emphasising the successful coordination of 100 banqueting events at a prestigious venue like The Savoy Hotel demonstrates the candidate's extensive experience and expertise in managing large-scale events, a key responsibility in this role.
- Mentioning certifications like the Certified Hospitality Supervisor highlights the candidate's commitment to maintaining high standards in service and operational excellence, which is particularly relevant for roles focused on customer service and hospitality management.
- The candidate's ability to train and lead teams, as evidenced by the reduction in service-related guest complaints, showcases strong leadership skills and an aptitude for enhancing team performance, essential qualities for effective banquet coordination and customer service management.
Cocktail Server
- Highlighting Achievements: Sienna effectively emphasises her track record of increasing customer satisfaction and sales through quantifiable achievements, such as a 20% increase in customer orders during peak periods and boosting beverage sales by 25% with signature cocktails.
- Relevant Certifications and Courses: She strengthens her candidacy by including relevant courses like the "Advanced Mixology Techniques" and "Hospitality Sales and Marketing," which underline her specialised expertise and commitment to professional development.
- Varied Experience in Hospitality: The cover letter presents a diverse work history across different reputable bars, demonstrating Sienna's broad experience in mixology, customer service, and event planning, essential for a nuanced role in the bartending industry.
- Passion and Motivation: Passion for mixology, travel, and gastronomy adds a personal touch, showcasing her enthusiasm and dedication to the craft, which is likely to resonate positively with potential employers.
Server Security Specialist
- Emphasising relevant experience: Highlighting over 10 years of experience in selling cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions establishes credibility and showcases expertise in the field.
- Demonstrating specific achievements: Including quantifiable results, such as achieving 150% sales targets and generating £5 million in revenue, strengthens the candidate's track record and impact.
- Mentioning industry standards: Proficiency in ISO 27001 and its successful implementation underscores the candidate's commitment to compliance and data security, critical for roles in cybersecurity and IT security.
- Listing certifications: Referencing certifications like Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and advanced courses enhances the candidate's specialised knowledge and dedication to professional development.
Linux Server Administrator
- Highlighting Core Skills and Experience: The cover letter effectively outlines the candidate's extensive experience in Linux Systems Administration and Database Management, emphasising over 10 years of relevant industry experience, which is crucial for showcasing base-level competency.
- Focus on Achievements and Outcomes: Key accomplishments, such as increasing DBMS efficiency by 20% and achieving a 30% reduction in unplanned outages, are highlighted, demonstrating the candidate's capacity to drive tangible improvements within an organisation.
- Strategic Certifications and Education: The cover letter mentions advanced courses like "Advanced Linux System Administration" and certifications in Epic Systems Database Configuration, underscoring a commitment to professional development in specialised areas relevant to the role.
- Emphasising Leadership and Collaboration: Providing examples of collaboration and leadership, such as leading strategic planning and training junior staff, suggests the candidate's ability to work well in teams and mentor others, which is critical for a position that requires cross-functional interaction.
Windows Server Administrator
- Emphasising Key Achievements: The cover letter effectively highlights significant accomplishments such as leading a cloud migration project that reduced costs by 25%, showcasing the candidate's project management and cloud expertise.
- Relevant Certifications: The candidate mentions completing an advanced Unix system administration course and obtaining a Microsoft Azure Administrator Certification, demonstrating commitment to professional development and specialised knowledge in critical areas.
- Problem-Solving Skills: The cover letter underscores problem-solving abilities by detailing successes in reducing downtime by 40% through troubleshooting sessions and implementing Unix server hardening procedures.
- Experience in Team Leadership: Highlighting leadership roles, such as managing cross-functional projects and spearheading technical workshops, presents the candidate as a capable leader in collaborative and evolving tech environments.
Cloud Server Engineer
- The cover letter effectively highlights the candidate's extensive experience and expertise in AWS and DevOps, which are critical for the Senior Cloud Engineer role, showcasing direct relevance to the job requirements.
- It underscores specific achievements, such as reducing deployment times by 30% and improving infrastructure efficiency by 40%, providing quantifiable evidence of technical and leadership capabilities.
- The mention of leadership in integrating tools like Terraform and Ansible is essential for the role, as these skills are highly valued in cloud infrastructure optimisation and automation.
Server Network Analyst
- Highlighting certifications such as AWS Certified Solutions Architect and CISSP can strengthen the applicant's profile in roles focused on cloud services and IT security.
- Emphasising achievements like reducing network downtime by 30% not only demonstrates technical expertise but also showcases the applicant's ability to enhance productivity and user satisfaction.
- Mentioning leadership experience, such as leading a successful cloud migration project, conveys the ability to manage and direct complex technical initiatives effectively, an essential aspect for a Senior IT Network Analyst role.
- Referencing specific technical skills, including knowledge of PowerShell, Bash, and cloud platforms like AWS and Azure, aligns with the specialised requirements of IT network management, enhancing the candidate’s suitability for the position.
Server Virtualisation Specialist
- Emphasises relevant certifications like the Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate, showcasing specialised expertise in managing Azure cloud services crucial to a Windows Server Engineer role.
- Highlights significant projects and achievements such as leading the implementation of a hybrid cloud solution and maintaining a 99.9% server uptime, demonstrating capability in enhancing efficiency and reliability in IT infrastructure.
- Demonstrates proficiency in essential technologies like PowerShell and Active Directory, crucial for the role, alongside advanced problem-solving skills to manage complex systems effectively.
- Includes achievements in security, such as spearheading a security improvement project resulting in a 40% reduction in breaches, underscoring an ability to safeguard IT environments, essential for systems administration roles.
SQL Server Database Administrator
- Highlighting Experience: The cover letter effectively showcases over 3 years of specialised experience in SQL Server management, which is crucial for the Junior SQL Database Administrator role, demonstrating both competence and commitment to the field.
- Emphasising Achievements: Concrete achievements such as reducing downtime by 30% in a database migration project and improving application response time by 25% provide tangible evidence of the applicant's positive impact, which is impressive to potential employers.
- Technical Proficiencies: Mentioning specific technical skills, such as T-SQL, clustering, and disaster recovery, aligns the applicant's capabilities with the core requirements of database administration, making them a suitable candidate for the role.
- Education and Continuous Learning: The cover letter includes relevant academic qualifications and continuing education through advanced courses, reinforcing a commitment to staying updated and skilled in database technologies.
Server Farm Manager
- Emphasise Specialised Skills: Highlighting expertise in farm management, sustainability strategies, livestock welfare, and biosecurity measures is crucial, as these are key areas in farm operations.
- Showcase Achievements: Mentioning the 20% cost reduction and securing £50,000 in grants demonstrates the ability to improve efficiency and sustain financial resources, which are significant accomplishments.
- Educational Contributions: Focus on contributions to agricultural education, such as the development of hands-on learning modules and engagement in educational outreach, indicating a commitment to inspiring future agriculturalists.
- Certifications and Courses: Include relevant certifications, like those in sustainable farming practices and advanced livestock health management, to reinforce specialised knowledge and continuous professional development.
Server Hardware Engineer
- Highlighting the "Advanced VMware Administration" and "Azure Solutions Architect Expert" certifications showcases specialised skills in virtualisation and cloud solutions, which are crucial for a Server Engineer role.
- Emphasising the successful completion of a cloud migration project, which resulted in a 30% cost reduction, demonstrates the candidate's ability to lead and execute cost-saving initiatives.
- Mentioning achievements like "Downtime Reduction Champion" and "Automation Innovator" illustrates a focus on enhancing efficiency and reliability—key aspects for engineering roles managing server infrastructures.
- Including a strong focus on collaboration with "Collaborated with cross-functional teams to design secure server infrastructures" highlights interpersonal skills, critical for working with diverse teams in large corporate environments.
Server cover letter example
Grace Bailey
Edinburgh, UK
+44 1234 567890
help@enhancv.com
To the Hiring Manager,
I am writing to express my interest in joining your team at [Company Name]. Having researched your company's commitment to exceptional guest experiences and innovative dining solutions, I am eager to contribute my skills and knowledge to further enhance your established reputation.
At The Balmoral Hotel, I led a team of 10 servers and successfully improved service efficiency by 25% through the implementation of a streamlined communication system. This achievement not only enhanced the guest dining experience but also led to consistently high satisfaction scores and personal commendation from the management.
I am keen to bring my expertise in guest relations and advanced wine knowledge to your team, and I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how I could contribute to your continued success. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my application with you further.
Sincerely,
Grace Bailey, Experienced Server
Why this cover letter makes an impact:
- Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasize past roles where leadership and improvement in service efficiency were demonstrated, as it shows your ability to manage and enhance team performance effectively.
- Quantify Achievements: Use specific numbers to quantify your achievements (e.g., improving service efficiency by 25%) to provide clear evidence of your contributions and impact.
- Align with Company Values: Research and reference the company's values or mission in the cover letter to show your understanding of their goals and how you can contribute to them.
- Emphasize Relevant Skills: Mention specific skills relevant to the role, such as guest relations and advanced wine knowledge, to demonstrate how you meet the job requirements.
Importance of cover letters in the United Kingdom
Cover letters are a vital part of professional job applications, helping shape recruiters' first impression of your profile.
Here’s why they’re important:
- Indicates your genuine interest: A well-researched cover letter reflects your knowledge of the company and role.
- Professionalism from the outset: Employers expect your cover letter to be structured, polite, and formal. If you wish to add a more personalised touch, be sure to address your recipient directly.
- Capture the recruiters' attention: For most roles, candidates tend to have rather similar experience, which is why you should use your cover letter to explain what is unique about your profile.
What UK employers expect from a cover letter
You only have one chance to impress your potential UK employers, so be wise about writing your cover letter.
When doing so, follow these three simple but essential steps:
- Do your research: Begin by researching the company and the role you're applying for. Check their website, social media pages, and relevant news to understand what drives their business.
- Highlight company values: Identify the company's core beliefs and explain how your personal and professional experiences resonate with them. For instance, if the organisation prioritises innovation, provide examples where you've demonstrated creative thinking.
- Match your skills to the job: Analyse the job description carefully and pick out the most important skills or qualifications they’re seeking. Be sure to mention your relevant achievements that prove you're the perfect fit for the position.
How to format a server cover letter
Your cover letter is your opportunity to make a strong impression, so its structure must be professional and clear.
Here's an overview of how a UK cover letter should be structured:
- Begin with your address and contact details at the top.
- Include the employer’s name and address directly below.
- Add the date to the left or right of the page.
- Use an appropriate greeting, such as 'Dear Mr Smith' or 'Dear Sir/Madam.'
- Open with a strong introductory paragraph.
- Develop your points in the middle paragraphs, focusing on relevant skills and experience.
- Close with a concise conclusion, reiterating your interest and suitability for the role.
- Sign off formally with your name and signature.
The software used to match your profile to the job, Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), won’t scan your cover letter. Instead, the cover letter reads as a more personalised note to the recruiter.
When it comes to choosing a font, consider modern options like Lato, Rubik, or Chivo, which should also be applied to your CV to maintain a consistent appearance.
Additionally, your cover letter should be single-spaced with 1-inch (2.5 cm) margins on all sides (our templates are pre-set with these specifications so you can focus on your cover letter content).
Finally, always send your cover letter as a PDF to preserve the formatting and prevent edits.
How to write your server cover letter salutation
It's never advisable to begin your cover letter with 'Dear Sir/Madam', as it sounds comes across as impersonal.
Take the time to find out who is hiring for the role and address them directly in your cover letter greeting (e.g., 'Dear Mrs Chanceworth', 'Dear Harrod').
If you're uncertain where to find the hiring manager’s name, check the company website, look on LinkedIn, or send a courteous email requesting this information. Don't hesitate to ring reception either—they are unlikely to refuse to assist.
How to write your server cover letter intro
One of the best ways to grab a hiring manager's attention? Show them the unique value you'd add to the team.
Review the skills or requirements listed in the posting and draw connections to your previous work experiences.
Focus on specific (and quantifiable) accomplishments and qualifications that align with the job description to make a strong first impression.
Cover Letter Intro
Having thoroughly explored Glastonbury's commitment to sustainability and exceptional service, I am drawn to the opportunity to contribute as a server, infusing every guest interaction with the warmth and integrity your esteemed establishment is known for. My background in fine dining and passion for locally-sourced cuisine aligns seamlessly with your vision.
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How to write your server cover letter body
Which makes for a stronger cover letter body: a long-winded account of everything you’ve ever done, or a focused achievement that’s directly relevant to the job?
Hint: recruiters prefer the second.
When writing your cover letter, select your most impressive achievement that:
- Directly aligns with the job description and role.
- Is quantifiable with tangible metrics like numbers or percentages.
- Maps out your hard and soft skills, showcasing what makes you unique.
- Tells the story of the impact you could have on the organisation.
Cover Letter Body
In my previous role as a server at The Rosewood Inn, I consistently leveraged my exceptional organisational skills and attention to detail to enhance customer satisfaction and streamline operations. This was vividly demonstrated when I took the initiative to redesign our ordering process, implementing a digital system that reduced order errors by 30% and improved service speed, which consequently boosted our positive customer feedback scores by 15% within three months. This not only demonstrated my ability to adapt quickly and embrace technology but also underscored my commitment to providing an outstanding dining experience. The blend of these skills enabled me to contribute substantially to the establishment's reputation for efficiency and service excellence.
RIGHT
How to write a closing paragraph
Looking to leave a lasting impression with your cover letter closing?
Then, you should certainly end with a promise—one that outlines what you aim to achieve in the role. Ensure your goals are realistic and align with the company’s needs.
You might also include a call to action, enquiring when you can expect to hear back and what the next steps in the hiring process will be.
Cover Letter Closing
Thank you for considering my application. I am genuinely enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to your establishment by delivering exceptional service and enhancing the customer experience as a server. I am confident that my skills and dedication make me a suitable candidate for this role. I would be grateful for the chance to discuss my application further and explore how I can contribute to your team. Please feel free to contact me to schedule an interview at your earliest convenience. Thank you once again for your time and consideration.
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Conclusion
Crafting an engaging cover letter can significantly enhance the effectiveness of your job application. Always personalise your letter by addressing the hiring manager directly and linking your qualifications to the role's requirements.
Highlight relevant achievements that set you apart and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the company. Maintain a professional format that complements your CV, creating a cohesive and polished application.
