A PHARMACEUTICAL SALES COVER LETTER 
 
 
 
While seeking a career in pharmaceutical sales, it is important to realize that the resume 
is very important but it is important to note that many pharmaceutical employers look at a 
job applicant’s cover letter with more frequency.  Thus, cover letters and other types of 
job  search  letters  can  play  a  critical  role  in  getting  invited  to  a  pharmaceutical  sales 
interview as well as offered a position.  If an individual neglects these letters then they 
will neglect some of the most important elements of their job search.  The cover letter is 
meant to compliment and enhance a pharmaceutical sales resume. 
 
The  cover  letter  is  a  special  type  of  career  search  letter.    By  definition,  it  will  always 
accompany  your  pharmaceutical  sales  resume  and  will  be  targeted  toward  a  particular 
pharmaceutical company.  We recommend a target cover letter.  Each letter will provide 
an enhancement to your enclosed pharmaceutical sales resume. 
 
 
THE TARGETED COVER LETTER 
 
The targeted cover letter is the most widely used career search letter.  It is addressed to a 
specific individual and is in reference to a particular position which may or many not be 
vacant.  It typically is written to a response to an internet ad or vacancy announcement or 
sent to a company that the candidate is interested in working for.   
 
A  targeted  cover  letter  should  be  specific  and  oriented  toward  the  needs  of  the 
pharmaceutical employer.  The content of this letter should reflect as much knowledge of 
the pharmaceutical employer and sales position as possible.  It is important to emphasize 
your skills that appear most compatible with the needs of the employer and requirements 
of the sales position.   In  the letter, you should tell the employer  why they should take 
time  to  talk  with  you  by  telephone  or  meet  you  in  person  to  further  discuss  your 
qualifications as they relate to pharmaceutical sales.  The letter should communicate both 
professional  and  personal  qualities  about  you  and  should  state  that  you  are  also  a 
competent and outgoing individual. 
 
If possible, always try to address the cover letter to a specific person, by name and their 
title.  A proper salutation should begin with Mr., Mrs., or Ms.  If you not sure whether 
you are writing to a male or female then use their full name, “Dear Pat Smith” or “Dear 
C. J. White.”  Many of the pharmaceutical sales vacancies you may find will include only 
an address.  If you are not able to determine whom to address your cover letter to, use one 
of the following choices: