How formal should a personal assistant cover letter be?

Polite and clear, in plain words. A personal assistant is judged on clear writing, so keep the letter neat and free of mistakes.

Should I mention my typing speed?

Only if it is good and the advert suggests it matters. One short mention is enough.

How do I mention confidential work without giving details?

Say that you handle confidential matters, such as client files or staff information, and how you keep them secure. Never name clients or people.

Personal assistant cover letter example

A strong personal assistant cover letter shows that you are organised, discreet and calm, with one example of solving a problem for the person you support. It should name who you support and the tools you use, rather than listing every quality you have.

Nadia Haddad

3 March 2026

Fairbank Advisory

Dear Ms Fitzgerald,

I am writing to apply for the Personal Assistant position at Fairbank Advisory. For the last three years I have supported a managing director and two senior partners at a professional services firm, looking after diaries, travel, correspondence and meeting papers.

My job is to make other people's weeks run smoothly. I keep three diaries in step, protect time for priority work and spot clashes before they happen. Last spring a flight to a client meeting was cancelled the night before. I rebooked a train and a hotel within the hour, rewrote the itinerary and the meeting went ahead on time.

I triage the managing director's inbox, draft replies for approval and take minutes that go out within a day, with actions clearly marked. I am used to confidential information, including client files and staff matters, and I keep it secure. I am confident with Outlook, Teams and Excel, and I type quickly and accurately.

Fairbank's advisory work for smaller businesses interests me, and I would enjoy supporting a team at a point when it is growing. I would welcome the chance to meet you. Thank you for considering my application.

Yours sincerely,

Nadia Haddad

Example · fictional candidate · Editorial design

Tips for a personal assistant cover letter

Say who you support and how many people, for example a managing director and two partners
Use one specific example of solving a problem calmly, such as a cancelled flight or a diary clash
Show discretion by saying you handle confidential information, without giving any detail
Name the software you use, such as Outlook, Teams and Excel
Link your letter to the employer's work or plans, so it does not read as a template

Pair it with a CV: see our personal assistant CV example.

Personal assistant cover letter example

Nadia Haddad

Tips for a personal assistant cover letter

Questions about personal assistant cover letters