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Cover Letter Templates
Click on a cover letter template, fill it online, and download in seconds. Build a professional cover letter in a few clicks . Just pick one of 18+ cover letter templates below, add ready-made content, and get the job.
Professional cover letter template with a column for contact information
Modern cover letter template with delicate icons for contact information.
Creative cover letter template with graphic elements and two columns
Perfect cover letter template with a dash of color and a structured layout
Sleek cover letter template with a light feel and color accents
Classic cover letter template in a one column layout
Two column cover letter template with contact information highlighted on the right
Clean cover letter template with plenty of whitespace and a layout that feels complete
Elegant cover letter template with a single column classic feel
Unique cover letter template with your initials on top and icons on the left
Elegant cover letter template with great readability
Two column cover letter template with a neat structure
Modern cover letter template with a clean-cut layout and two columns
Elegant cover letter template with a top-bottom structure and clean sections.
Elegant cover letter template with appealing typography and flow
Creative cover letter template with initials as the logo and delicate graphic accents
Simple cover letter template that draws attention to your title and personal story
Traditional cover letter template with minimal design, but a finished feel
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot
Need text samples of cover letter templates, free cover letter template to copy and use.
Your Name Your Address Your City, State Zip Code Your Phone Number Your Email Date Hiring Manager’s/Recruiter’s Name Hiring Manager’s/Recruiter’s Title Organization/Company Name Address City, State Zip Code Dear Mr./Ms. [Hiring Manager’s/Recruiter’s Last Name]
When I found the opening for the [Position] with [Organization/Company Name] I felt as if it was addressed to me. In my current position as [Position] at [Organization/Company Name], I’ve improved [achievement] by [%] in [months/years] which resulted in [Number + Result]. I’m sure I can use my expertise to bring similar results for [Organization/Company Name].
In my current position as a [Position] with [Current Organization/Company Name], my key challenge has been [Main Responsibility]. Here are some of my recent results:
- Succeeded at expanding [Achievement] by [%] since [Year].
- Skyrocketed [Achievement] scores by [%].
- Optimized [Achievement], saving the company [$/hours] a [month/quarter/year].
- Led a team of [Number] employees to increase [Organization/Company Name] revenue by [%] in [Number] years.
- My team has scored [Achievement] [Number] months/years in a row
I know that [Organization/Company Name]’s current plans involve [Company’s Plans]. It would be an exciting opportunity for me to use [Your Skill] developing [Company’s Project].
Can we schedule a meeting [Date] to discuss my solutions for boosting [Organization/Company Name]’s [Revenue/Traffic/Customer Satisfaction] by [%] in the next quarter?
Sincerely/Best regards, Your Full Name Your Phone Number Your Email Address Your LinkedIn Account
Best cover letter templates for any situation
A cover letter for a resume or application is a brief presentation of your experience and skills in narrative form. The purpose of a cover letter is to highlight the most important information from your resume and add extra reasons why you should be hired. It’s about looks and contents. And Zety will help with both—
Professional design
These resume cover letter templates match Zety’s resume templates and give your documents a polished look. Highlight key achievements in bullet points, use color and style to draw attention to what matters to employers. Writing a cover letter feels like doing homework assignments, but not with Zety—
Ease of use
Fill in any of these professional cover letter format templates with help from our app. Simply tell the wizard a few things about yourself, and get a ready cover letter sample in a few clicks. Stop worrying about every single word you use and focus on what matters: your future job.
These user-friendly cover letter templates will save you hours of painful work. Remember the last cover letter sample you downloaded and got stuck filling out? This won't happen again. Choose between different sample cover letter layouts, click a few buttons, and you're done. Download your cover letter template in pdf or Word format.
Confidence boost
Don’t ignore your cover letter. About 20-50% recruiters expect you to write one even if they don’t read it . Writing a cover letter from scratch feels like a chore, but it doesn’t have to. You can create a cover letter for a job of your dreams in minutes. Employers will recognize you for who you are: the ideal candidate.
Proven effectiveness
A Zety resume and a cover letter is your one-two punch that will help you beat the competition. Only 20% of all applications contain cover letters and with Zety you’ll stand out as the best candidate. Creating a cover letter can be simple, fast, and is proven to get jobs. It’s surprising how little effort you need.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cover Letter Templates
What is a cover letter for a resume.
A cover letter for a resume is a document attached to your job application that will support your resume, by explaining your motivation and providing more details about the past jobs and skills that are listed on your resume. It is strongly advised to use a cover letter template matching your resume template for an optimal application. Get a professional resume template here , to go with your cover letter. Note that a cover letter for a resume can also work for a CV – here's a selection of professional CV templates (and here's the difference between a resume and a CV ).
What is the best cover letter template in 2023?
All our covering letter templates are equally adapted to modern HR trends and will appeal to recruiters. The best cover letter template is one that will allow you to write your personal details and list your strongest skills, while looking professional and simple . To pick the best cover letter template, focus on what will look perfect based on your industry, experience level, and preferences. Here's more on what a cover letter should look like in 2023.
How to format a cover letter?
While formatting a cover letter is not as complicated as finding the best resume format , you still need to follow the expected cover letter etiquette . Typically, cover letters are formatted with a lot of empty space on the page (double spaces between paragraphs), left-aligned text, and sufficient margins. For more tips, read our guide on how to format a cover letter the right way .
Do I really need a cover letter for a job in 2023?
Although resumes can be sent without a covering letter, every recruiter prefers receiving one, to have more options and details . Cover letters are not always necessary and read , but they are a serious advantage in case other candidates didn't send one.Besides, a professional cover letter shows your motivation, and allows you to say more about your projects and abilities.By sending a cover letter with your resume in 2023, you gain the lead over your competitors.
What to include in my cover letter?
A cover letter is made of several parts . The main ones are the cover letter header and the body . In the cover letter header, list the following information:
- Your phone number
- Your email address
- The name of the hiring manager
In the cover letter body, here's what should be available:
- Cover letter greetings
- Catchy cover letter opening paragraph
- Main strength and skills
- Motivation to join the company
- Closing cover letter paragraph and sign off
Those lists are not exhaustive; you can add more information for a better chance of success, such as your title or a post-scriptum. Read more about all the important things to include in a cover letter here .
How long should a cover letter be?
A cover letter should be one-page long , on a single-page cover letter template, and composed of around 4 paragraphs, along with contact information in the header. 400 words is a good limit, as more could mean no recruiter will read your document, and not enough will not make it seem worth the attempt. Depending on your experience, industry, and circumstances, the amount of information to write can vary. We encourage you to read our post on the ideal cover letter length in 2023 .
Do I need a unique cover letter for every job?
While writing a different cover letter for each job may sound tedious, it is a necessary step to increase your chances of being hired . A cover letter is impactful only when it is not generic, and when it surprises the recruiters with important and interesting details about you and your reasons to apply. Each cover letter must therefore be unique . However, you can save precious time by using our online cover letter builder , which allows you to duplicate, modify, save, and download your cover letters with just a few clicks. Besides, it offers pre-written content that you can use to write different application letters in no time.
Should I use a PDF or a Word cover letter template?
Just like your resume should be sent in PDF format , it is best to download your cover letter in PDF, too. The PDF format allows your cover letter layout to remain unchanged, whatever the device used by recruiters. Our cover letter templates all match our resume templates, and can be exported in Docx (Word), for you to modify them later, or in PDF for you to send them immediately.
Can I email my cover letter instead of sending a cover letter template?
For job offers that don't request a cover letter, and when you don't have time to write one, you can write a short cover letter directly in your email's body .Before choosing that option, we'd like to point out that our online cover letter application can generate a cover letter template with pre-written content for you, making the process faster and easier. If you still prefer to send a letter in text form rather than a cover letter template, here are all our tips on how to email a cover letter successfully.
Do you have cover letter examples for my template?
Our cover letter templates can be filled online using pre-written content. You'll only have to input your job title and generate content quickly and conveniently.Adapt what matters, and copy the rest to save time and speed up your job hunt.To help you adapt your cover letter and make it perfectly targeted, we have written hundreds of cover letter examples that you can find here .
How to make a cover letter with no experience?
A cover letter template can seem hard to fill with useful information when your resume itself is quite light on job experience and hard skills . But it is in those cases that your cover letter is even more important. Entry-level candidates can't rely on experience, and must therefore make the most of their soft skills , projects and original ideas. To start with, we encourage you to make a resume with no experience , and then write an entry-level cover letter that will complement it.
Are Zety cover letter templates free?
All our cover letter templates are free-to-use, and entirely customizable online. You don't have to pay to create as many cover letters as you want, until you are satisfied with the result.Zety follows the 'try before you buy' rule, and will never ask you for payment until you are 100% certain your cover letter template is pixel-perfect and ready to be sent to employers.
Try Zety's professional cover letter builder now
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How To Write a Cover Letter for a CV (With Examples)
Alison Doyle is one of the nation’s foremost career experts.
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Tips for Writing a Cover Letter for a CV
Proofread before sending, cover letter template, cover letter sample, sending an email cover letter, more cover letter examples.
When you apply for a job with a curriculum vitae (CV), it's important to include a cover letter, also known as a covering letter. This letter allows you to make a favorable first impression, using narrative in your own tone of voice to catch the reader’s attention and encourage them to seriously review your attached CV.
Like a resume, a CV summarizes your skills and experience. The difference between a CV and a resume is length, the focus on credentials, and what the documents are used for. Typically, a CV is required to apply for roles in academia, scientific research, and medical fields.
While your CV provides a detailed—and often lengthy—look at your experience and credentials, the cover letter is an opportunity to call out your most important qualifications and make a compelling case for your candidacy for the role at hand. Here's what you need to know to write a successful curriculum vitae cover letter.
Tailor the Letter to Fit the Organization
The CV cover letter should be tailored to respond to the unique and specific requirements requested by each organization you are approaching.
Do not use the same cover letter for every job you apply to, even though it may seem like a timesaver.
Each letter needs to provide detailed information about why are you are qualified for the specific job in question, and it should outline the reasons for your interest in the company or organization. Being specific is advantageous. Even if you're applying for two similar roles in two different hospitals, the two hospitals may serve different populations or require slightly different responsibilities for people in the role. Your letters to each hospital should reflect that.
Use your cover letter to identify the skills or experiences most specific to the job, rather than copying directly the information in your CV.
What to Include
As a candidate, it's tempting to feel like the cover letter is unnecessary, since it is likely that all the pertinent information is included in your CV. Still, as you can see, the cover letter is a helpful tool in your application. Here's what to keep in mind as you write a cover letter.
Format Matters
The content of your cover letter should be brief and structured. Aim for 3-5 paragraphs in your letter. Start with a salutation. Your letter should address the relevant contact, whose name often appears in the job advertisement. Avoid “Sir” or “Madam” if possible.
If the letter recipient's name isn't provided, try these tips to determine the correct contact person .
Start With an Introduction
Typically, the first paragraph will be an introduction—if you are applying to a job ad, mention it here. Mention the job title, any reference number, and where and when you saw it. The first paragraph is also where you should mention if someone referred you to the position.
The Body of the Cover Letter
The body of the letter—the second and third paragraphs—should highlight your relevant skills and experience. Highlight your transferable skills , achievements, and versatility. Explain what you can contribute and what makes you stand out from your competition. Include mention of your current or last job, qualifications, and professional and academic training, tailoring your information to make it as relevant as possible to the organization or job applied for.
In the body of the cover letter, you can mention personality traits relevant to the role at hand. You can also use this space to call out why you're interested in this specific role, at this specific company. Potential employers and hiring managers will appreciate it if you can show you've read the job ad and researched the company.
Avoid lengthy repetition of information covered in your CV. Unlike a CV, it is acceptable to write a cover letter in the first person.
Conclude the letter by succinctly summarizing why an employer may want to meet and employ you. Include a polite expression of interest in further dialogue with the recruiter. Do mention that you would like the opportunity to discuss your suitability further in a personal interview and that you await a response in due course.
Follow Instructions
In some cases, an advertisement will indicate that a more substantial letter is required.
Always follow specific instructions and include any information if it is specifically requested. For instance, some employers may ask you to include your current salary or your desired salary range.
Make Sure the Letter Reads Well
Ensure that your CV cover letter flows freely. You do not need to precisely match every point on the job description. The reader should be left with an overall impression that you are a potentially valuable addition to the workforce.
The letter should be readable and engaging.
Negative information of any sort should be avoided in your cover letter, as well as on your CV.
You'll want to be sure your letter is free from grammar or spelling errors. It should also be clearly presented—that means using standard formatting, and common readable fonts (such as Times New Roman or Verdana) in an appropriate size.
This is a cover letter example. Download the cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.
Depending on the employer's submission requirements, cover letters can be submitted online with your CV, uploaded online, or mailed. Be sure to follow the application instructions and follow the directions on how to apply. Consider this template for how to structure your letter:
Belinda Applicant 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 555-555-5555 belinda.applicant@gmail.com
October 25, 2021
Clark Lee, PhD Biology Department Chair Northwestern University 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321
Dear Dr, Lee:
I am writing to apply for the position of assistant professor in the Biology department, as described in the Northern University website. The opportunity to teach biology appeals to me, and I believe I can be an asset to the department due to my experience as a field biologist, as well as my work as an adjunct professor at Southern State University. In accordance with your job description, I have the following skills:
• Experience lecturing to large audiences
• Experience with learning management systems and course design
• Ability to assist with labs for other professors
• Experience with grant writing and research
I have enclosed my curriculum vitae so you may examine my work and research experience, the papers I’ve published, and my educational background.
I can be reached anytime by email at Belinda.applicant@gmail.com or my cell phone, 555-555-5555. Thank you so much for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you about this position.
Signature (hard copy letter)
Belinda Applicant
When you are sending your cover letter by email, list your contact information in your signature rather than at the top of the letter. List your name and the job title in the subject line of the message.
Here are more examples of cover letters that you can use as a starting point for your own correspondence.
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21+ Cover Letter Examples in 2023 [For All Professions]
No matter where you are in your career, or what job you’re applying for, submitting a cover letter with your resume is a must .
Done right, a cover letter will effectively complement your resume and explain to the hiring manager in more detail why you’re the right person for the job.
Writing a cover letter, however, is easier said than done.
You have to effectively demonstrate that you’ll be able to perform the responsibilities listed in the job description and that you’d be a better fit for the company compared to other candidates.
And unless you’re a professional writer, this can be a very hard task.
Fortunately, we created these cover letter examples to inspire you and help you get started with your own cover letter!
Let’s dive in!
21 Cover Letter Examples
#1. career change cover letter example .
Here’s what this cover letter does right:
- Has an ideal length. This cover letter includes all the relevant information for the hiring manager without getting into too much detail.
- Relevant introduction. The candidate explains that they’re changing careers and why they want to work in this new field from the get-go.
- Explains their related experience. The candidate explains how their previous experience in retail sales can help them succeed in PR.
Want to learn how to write a career change resume that’s on par with your cover letter? Check out our guide!
#2. Recent Graduate Cover Letter Example
- Personally greets the hiring manager. The candidate has taken the time to find the hiring manager’s name and address them by it, which makes the opening of the cover letter much more personal.
- Wraps up with a call to action. The candidate wraps up the cover letter by suggesting a meeting with the hiring manager, which makes them more memorable.
- Explains why the candidate is the right person for the internship. In this cover letter for an internship , the candidate explains how they’ve previously interned in a different firm, which gives them the experience to succeed in this role.
Have you just graduated from college? Make sure to check out our guide on writing an entry-level cover letter from start to finish!
#3. Middle Management Cover Letter Example
- Use of bullet points. The candidate presents the information in a concise and reader-friendly way, making it easy for the hiring manager to find their key achievements.
- Formal closing. The candidate has used a formal and polite tone to conclude their cover letter, which combined with a call to action makes them look professional and passionate about getting the job.
- Explains how the company would benefit from hiring them. The candidate outlines exactly what they could do for the company, which not only highlights their skills but also shows they’ve done their research on the company’s needs.
#4. Business Manager Cover Letter Example
- Detailed header. In addition to the must-have contact details, this candidate has also included their professional Twitter and LinkedIn profiles, making it easy for the hiring manager to look more closely into their career.
- Concise and to the point. This candidate has used short paragraphs and bullet points to make the cover letter easy to skim through.
- Wraps up with a call to action. By letting the hiring manager know they’ll be contacting them soon, they’re more likely to make an impression.
Check out this article for a complete writing guide and an inspiring business manager resume sample.
#5. Ph.D. Cover Letter Example
Here’s what this cover letter does right:
- Attention-grabbing introduction. In the opening paragraph, this candidate explains why they’re passionate about pursuing a Ph.D. in great detail.
- Explains the candidate’s qualifications in detail. The candidate builds on their passion by explaining how they’re also qualified for the degree because of their education history and academic achievements.
#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example
- Professional and minimalistic template. This senior executive has used a professional but minimalistic template that lets their work experience do the talking.
- Achievement-oriented opening paragraph. Right from the get-go, this candidate explains what makes them so good at their job, effectively grabbing the hiring manager’s attention.
- Wraps up with a call to action. By suggesting to have a meeting and discussing how they can help the company meet its goals, the candidate stands more chance to make a positive lasting impression.
#7. Architect Cover Letter Example
- Modern resume template. This architect has picked a template that perfectly matches his industry, as it is professional and modern at the same time.
- A personal greeting to the HR. They address the hiring manager by their first name, which helps make a better first impression.
- Measurable achievements. By quantifying their achievements, the candidate proves their achievements instead of just claiming them.
Struggling with your architect resume ? Check out our full guide!
#8. Business Analyst Cover Letter Example
- Detailed contact information. The candidate has listed both their LinkedIn and Twitter profiles, providing the HR manager an opportunity to learn more about the candidate.
- Mentions what the candidate can do for the company. This cover letter doesn’t just explain why the job would be great for the candidate, but also how the candidate would benefit the company. Win-win, right?
- Error-free and reader-friendly. It’s super important for the cover letter to have no spelling or grammatical errors and be reader-friendly. This candidate made sure they did both.
Need a resume alongside your cover letter? Check out our guide on how to write a business analyst resume .
#9. Consultant Cover Letter Example
- Professional cover letter template. Being an experienced consultant, this candidate has picked a professional template that doesn’t steal the spotlight from their achievements.
- Experience and achievement-oriented. The candidate has effectively elaborated on their top achievements relevant to the job.
- Highlights the candidate’s passion. To show they want the job, this candidate has also explained how passionate they are about their profession.
For more advice on landing a job as a consultant, check out our guide to writing a consultant resume .
#10. Digital Marketing Cover Letter Example
- Creative cover letter template. This digital marketer highlights their originality by picking a creative cover letter template.
- Lists the candidate’s awards. The candidate has taken advantage of the cover letter to list their most noteworthy awards in the industry.
- Concludes with a call to action. As they used a call to action to conclude their cover letter, the HR manager will be more likely to remember them.
Want to take your digital marketing resume to the next level? Check out our guide!
#11. Graphic Designer Cover Letter Example
- Detailed contact information. The candidate has included additional contact information such as their website link, as well as their LinkedIn and Twitter profiles.
- Ideal length. This cover letter is concise, which means that the HR manager is more likely to read it from start to finish.
- Draws attention to the candidate’s strong points. Although this candidate is a recent college graduate, they’ve managed to effectively show that they have enough knowledge and experience to do the job right.
Read this guide to write a graphic designer resume that’s just as good as your cover letter!
#12. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Example
- Minimalistic cover letter template. The candidate picked a well-designed but minimalistic template for their cover letter.
- Focused on skills and achievements. This cover letter is packed with the candidate’s skills and achievements, proving he can be an excellent employee.
- Formal closing. Politeness can go a long way and the candidate has used this to their advantage to make an impression.
Our article on how to write an administrative assistant resume can help you take your job application to the next level.
#13. Front Desk Cover Letter Example
- Modern cover letter template. This template incorporates memorable colors and clear lines, which make the cover letter very visually appealing.
- Attention-grabbing introduction. Using an attention-grabbing intro, the candidate is more likely to make an impression.
- Calls the HR to action. By including a call to action, the candidate is reminding the HR of their immediate availability.
#14. Human Resources Cover Letter Example
- It is concise and to the point. The candidate doesn’t dwell on unimportant details the HR won’t be interested in.
- Uses a traditional cover letter template. The cover letter design is more on the conventional side, which fits the industry better.
- Highlights the candidate’s strong points. The candidate has rich work experience and they use the cover letter to elaborate on it.
This HR resume guide can help you get your resume just right.
#15. Sales Agent Cover Letter Example
- Attention-grabbing cover letter template. As a salesperson, this candidate knows how important first impressions are, so they’ve picked a catchy cover letter template.
- Has an ideal length. At the same time, they’ve also made sure to keep their cover letter at just the right length.
- Lists the candidate’s career highlights. The candidate has made perfect use of the space by mentioning their most impressive professional achievements.
Check out this sales agent resume guide to create an attention-grabbing sales resume .
#16. Receptionist Cover Letter Example
- Modern but minimalistic cover letter template. The template’s design hints the candidate is creative but professional at the same time.
- Uses a catchy introduction. The candidate has used an attention-grabbing opening paragraph to catch HR’s attention.
- Concludes the cover letter formally. The candidate proves that they’re polite and well-spoken, a quality very much important for the role they’re applying for.
Take your receptionist resume to the next level with this receptionist resume guide .
#17. Information Technology Cover Letter Example
- Mentions measurable achievements. Numbers make an impact, which is why this candidate has included measurable achievements.
- Lists both soft and hard skills. The candidate has mentioned a great mix of soft and hard skills, showing how well-rounded they are.
- Contains relevant contact information. The candidate’s GitHub, website name, LinkedIn, and Twitter profiles are all great additions to the resume.
Looking for tips to help you write a great IT resume ? Check out our guide!
#18. Real Estate Cover Letter Example
- Ideal length. Short and to the point, this cover letter is bound to get noticed by the HR manager.
- Wraps up with a call to action. This candidate reinforces the HR to call them back through a final call to action.
- Mentions the right skills. On top of their sales accomplishments, the candidate touch upon important soft skills such as customer service and communication .
This real estate resume guide will help you take your resume from good to great.
#19. Teacher Cover Letter Example
- Mentions relevant contact information details. This candidate has included optional (but relevant) contact information details, such as their LinkedIn, Quora, and Medium profiles.
- Achievement-oriented. The candidate has elaborated on their achievements in more detail throughout their cover letter.
- Highlights the candidate’s passion. For some jobs, being passionate is much more important than for others. Teaching is one of these jobs, which is why this candidate explains their passion for the job.
Our guide on how to write a teacher resume has all the tips you need to land the job.
#20. Project Manager Cover Letter Example
- Leverages a catchy introduction. Through a catchy introductory paragraph, this candidate is sure to grab the HR’s attention and get them to read the rest of their cover letter.
- Lists measurable accomplishments. This candidate explains exactly what they’ve achieved using numbers and hard data.
- Personally greets the HR. A personal greeting sounds much better than “Dear Sir/Madam,” and the candidate knows this.
This guide on how to write a project manager resume can help you perfect your appication.
#21. Paralegal Cover Letter Example
- Minimalistic cover letter template. This cover letter design looks good but doesn’t steal the show from the candidate’s abilities.
- Mentions the candidate’s academic achievements and extracurricular activities. Although the candidate is a recent graduate, they’ve used the cover letter to explain they have enough skills and achievements to do the job.
- Lists measurable achievements. The candidate proves they did well in their internship by mentioning quantifiable achievements.
Check out this paralegal resume guide to perfect yours.
What is a Cover Letter?
A cover letter is a one-page document that you submit as part of your job application, alongside your resume .
Its purpose is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background. On average, your cover letter should be from 250 to 400 words long .
A good cover letter can give the hiring manager more insight into what makes you a good candidate and help them make up their mind about whether they should invite you for an interview. A bad cover letter, though, will get ignored (at best) and lose you the job (at worst).
So, to make sure this doesn’t happen, it’s essential to know how to write a convincing cover letter.
The first thing to remember is that a cover letter is a supplement to your resume, not a replacement. Meaning, you shouldn’t just repeat whatever is mentioned in your resume and call it a day.
Optimally, you should use your cover letter to shed more light on your skills and qualifications, as well as explain anything you didn’t have space for in your resume (e.g. a career gap or why you’re changing careers).
If you’re writing a cover letter for the first time, though, putting all this together might seem pretty tough.
Fortunately, you can follow our tried-and-tested format to make the experience much easier:
- Header - Input your contact information.
- Greeting the hiring manager - Open the cover letter with a “Dear Sir or Madam,” or use the hiring manager’s name if you know what that is.
- Opening paragraph - Grab the hiring manager’s attention by getting straight to the point. Mention what your professional experiences are, and what role you’re applying for.
- The second paragraph - Explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the job. Mention your top 2-3 achievements, your top skills, why you want to work in that specific industry, and whatever else is relevant.
- The third paragraph - End your cover letter with a call to action. E.g. “I would love to meet personally and discuss how I can help Company X.”
- Formal closing - Something like this: “Thank you for your consideration. Best, John Doe.”
Here’s what this looks like in practice:
9 Tips to Write a Cover Letter (the Right Way)
Now that we've covered the basics, let's talk about cover letter tips . Below, we'll give you all the knowledge you need to take your cover letter from "OK" to "great."
#1. Pick the right template
A good cover letter is all about leaving the right first impression.
And what’s a better way to leave a good impression than through a professional, well-formatted, and visual template?
You can simply pick one of our tried-and-tested cover letter templates and you’ll be all set!
#2. Add your contact details on the header
The best way to start your cover letter is through a header.
Here’s what you want to include there:
- Phone Number
- Name of the hiring manager / their professional title
- Name of the company you’re applying to
Optionally, you can also include the following:
- Social Media Profiles - Any type of profile that’s relevant to your field. Social Profiles on websites like LinkedIn, GitHub (for developers), Medium (for writers), etc.
- Personal Website - If you have a personal website that somehow adds value to your application, you can mention it. Let’s say you’re a professional writer. In that case, you’d want to link to your content portfolio site or blog.
#3. Greet the hiring manager the right way
Once you’ve listed all your relevant contact information, it’s time to address the hiring manager reading your cover letter.
A good practice here is to find the hiring manager’s name and address them directly instead of using the traditional “dear sir or madam.” This shows that you’re really invested in the company and that you took your time to do some research about the job.
So, how can you find out the hiring manager’s name?
One way to do this is by looking up the head of the company’s relevant department on LinkedIn. Let’s say you’re applying for the position of Communication Specialist at Novoresume. The hiring manager is probably the Head of Communications or the Chief Communications Office.
Or let’s say you’re applying for the position of server at a restaurant. In that case, you’d be looking to find out who the restaurant manager is.
If this doesn’t work, you can also check out the “Team” page on the company website; there’s a good chance you’ll at least find the right person there.
If you still can’t find out the hiring manager’s name, here are several other greetings you can use:
- Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
- Dear Hiring Manager
- To whom it may concern
- Dear [Department] Team
#4. Create an attention-grabbing introduction
Recruiters get hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of applications. Chances are, they’re not going to be reading every single cover letter end-to-end.
So, it’s essential to catch their attention from the very first paragraph.
The problem with most cover letter opening paragraphs, though, is that they’re usually extremely generic, often looking something like this:
Hey, my name is Jonathan and I’d like to work as a Sales Manager at XYZ Inc. I’ve worked as a sales manager at MadeUpCompany Inc. for 5+ years, so I believe that I’d be a good fit for the position.
As you can probably tell, this opening paragraph doesn’t tell the hiring manager anything other than that you’ve worked the job before - and that’s not really helpful in setting you apart from other candidates.
What you want to do, instead, is start off with 2-3 of your top achievements to really grab the reader’s attention. Preferably, the achievements should be as relevant as possible to the position.
For example:
My name’s Michael and I’d like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed its sales goals as a Sales Manager. I’ve worked with Company X, a fin-tech company, for 3+ years. As a Sales Representative, I generated an average of $30,000+ in sales per month (beating the KPIs by around 40%). I believe that my previous industry experience, as well as my excellence in sales, makes me the right candidate for the role of X at Company Y.
The second example shows how the candidate is a top performer. The first just shows that they’ve worked a sales job before.
Which one are YOU more likely to invite for an interview?
#5. Show you’re the perfect person for the job
One great thing about cover letters is that they allow you to expand more on the top achievements from your resume and really show the hiring manager that you’re the right person for the job.
A good way to do that is to first read the job ad and really understand what skills/experiences are required, and then to ensure that your cover letter touches upon the said skills or experiences.
In my previous role as a Facebook Marketing Expert at XYZ Inc. I handled customer acquisition through ads, managing a monthly Facebook ad budget of $20,000+. As the sole digital marketer at the company, I managed the ad creation and management process end-to-end. This means I created the ad copy and images, as well as picked the targeting, ran optimization trials, and so on.
Other than Facebook advertising, I’ve also delved into other online PPC channels, including:
- Google Search
#6. Explain why you’re a great company fit
The HR manager doesn’t only look at whether you’ll be good at the job or not. They’re looking for someone that’s also a good fit for the company culture.
After all, employees that don’t fit in are bound to quit, sooner or later. This ends up costing the company a ton of money, up to 50% of the employee’s annual salary .
To convince the hiring manager that you’re a great company fit, do some research on the company and find out what it is you like about them, or about working there. You want to know things like:
- What’s the company’s business model?
- What’s the company's product or service? Have you used it?
- What’s the culture like? Will someone micro-manage your work, or will you have autonomy on how you get things done?
Then, turn your top reasons for liking to work there into text and add them to your cover letter!
#7. Wrap up with a call to action
To make the end of your cover letter as memorable as possible, you want to:
- Wrap up any points you couldn't in the previous paragraphs. Mention anything you’ve left out that you think could help the hiring manager make up your mind.
- Thank the hiring manager for their time. After all, it never hurts to be polite.
- Finish the cover letter with a call to action. A call to action is a great way to make your cover letter ending as memorable as possible.
#8. Write a formal closing
Once you’re done with the final paragraph, all you have to do is write down a formal “goodbye” and you’re good to go.
Feel free to use one of the most popular conclusions in a cover letter:
- Best Regards,
- Kind Regards,
#9. Proofread your cover letter
Last but not least, make sure to always proofread each and every document that you’ll be including in your job application - cover letter included.
The last thing you want is to be claiming you’re a great candidate for the job with a cover letter full of typos!
For an even more comprehensive guide on how to write an impactful cover letter , check out our article !
Cover Letter Writing Checklist
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you still have some questions about cover letters? Check out the answers below:
1. How do I write a simple cover letter?
To write a cover letter that’s simple but also professional, make sure to include a header with your personal information, a formal greeting to the hiring manager, an attention-grabbing opening paragraph, a second paragraph explaining why you’re a good candidate for the job, and a formal closing (preferably with a call to action).
2. What are the 3 parts of a cover letter?
The three parts of a cover letter are:
- The introduction , namely the header, the greeting to the hiring manager, and the opening paragraph.
- The sales pitch is usually the body of the cover letter.
- The conclusion involves a formal closing and a signature line.
3. What makes a great cover letter?
A great cover letter should be personalized for each job you’re applying for, instead of being overly generic. It’s also preferable to address the hiring manager by their name and not use the overly-used “Dear Sir/Madam.”
To make a great first impression, you should mention 1-2 of your top achievements in your opening paragraph - the more job-specific they are, the better. Also, don’t stop at showing the hiring manager why you’re a great candidate for the job. Make sure to also talk about how you’re a good culture fit for the company.
Last but not least, wrap up your closing paragraph with a call to action to give the hiring manager a little extra something to remember you by.
4. When is a cover letter necessary?
Unless the job ad specifically states otherwise, you should always include a cover letter with your job application .
Even if the hiring manager doesn’t read it, you will look more professional simply by including one.
And that’s a wrap! We hope our cover letter examples and writing tips will inspire you to write a cover letter that will land you your next job.
If you’re looking for more invaluable career advice and articles, make sure to check out our career blog , or any of these related articles:
- How to Make a Resume in 2023
- Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid at All Costs
- Cover Letter Format (w/ Examples & Free Templates)
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Cover Letter Templates
Start your career on the right track with a professional cover letter template. Our templates are formatted to follow industry standards, are ATS-friendly and easy to customize. Choose an expertly designed free cover letter template or use our Cover Letter Builder to write a cover letter for your resume.
- Cover Letter
Curriculum vitae, or CV, stands for “course of life.” In the U.S., a CV is a multi-page professional document that extensively details your education and experience. In other parts of the world, a CV is a standard, position-specific document (similar to a resume in the U.S.) that is between one and two pages long.
Charismatic
This professional cover letter template features a dual-tone heading to make your name stand out.
This resume cover letter template will help you tell your story with a modern font and unique design.
Try this cover letter template for a straightforward and impressive letter.
A strong font makes this cover sheet template ideal for modern architecture, technology and advertising jobs.
No matter your industry, this creative job cover letter template can help bring out your creative side.
Present your qualifications front and center with this professional cover letter template.
Catch the recruiter’s attention with this crisp template, which features your name and information aligned to the left.
This best-in-class cover letter template will speak volumes about your professionalism.
Distinguished
This straightforward template places your name front and center.
This elegant design of this sample cover letter template commands attention.
Make a bold statement with this modern cover letter template, which offers customizable colors and fonts.
Grab the recruiter’s attention with the pops of color and fun icons this layout features. It’s the best cover letter template for creative jobs.
Change the colors and font type of this template to fit your needs.
Make a subtle statement by choosing a resume cover letter template like this one that colorfully highlights your contact information.
Professional
This sophisticated layout of this application letter template tells employers you mean business.
A monogram graphic in the header gives this cover sheet template a unique look.
View all templates
Customer Reviews
Why a free cover letter template is perfect for you, we handle cover letter formatting for you.
Our templates follow standard cover letter format rules, ensuring that you use the correct line and margin spacing and proper fonts.
Professional cover letter template designs
From modern cover letter templates to creative and professional styles, our experts have designed our templates to get you noticed.
Easy to customize templates
We make it easy to customize your cover letter template from color palette to font size to match your goals.
We’ll help you write your cover letter
Download a free cover letter template and edit it to fit your needs, or use our Cover Letter Builder to guide you through each step of creating your document in minutes.
Modern free cover letter templates
These free cover letter templates are great for jobs in industries such as technology or business, where looking sharp and staying on top of the latest trends matters.
Bold cover letter template
If you want to convey that you’re a professional who is not afraid to take risks, this is the best template for you.
Blueprint cover letter template
Stand out with this colorful cover letter template free of charge. Its two-column layout neatly displays your qualifications, making them easy to read.
Charismatic cover letter template
This free cover letter template download injects some personality into your career story. Notice how two colors make the job applicant’s name pop.
Professional free cover letter templates
You can’t go wrong with the classic style of a formal cover letter template. Download one free of charge and show hiring managers you mean business.
Professional cover letter template
Simple yet effective, this template shows that basic doesn’t have to mean boring.
Deluxe cover letter template
This free resume cover letter template gives you all the room you need to present your accomplishments.
Executive cover letter template
This is a good cover letter template for anyone who wants to get straight to the point.
Creative free cover letter templates
Creative jobs require imaginative designs. Use these layouts when you want to visually show your personality and make a statement, especially if you’re applying for a job in a creative industry. Download a creative resume cover letter template free of charge and show employers your creative side.
Original cover letter template
This free cover letter template combines icons, pops of color and a fun approach.
Standout cover letter template
A minimalistic design detail next to your name makes this template unforgettable.
Centered cover letter template
Sleek fonts and bold colors make this free cover letter template download perfect for creative job seekers.
Simple and basic free cover letter templates
A clean cover letter template is the best way to communicate your information and experience. Try a simple or basic cover letter free of charge.
Distinguished cover letter template
This simple cover letter template has an elegant, understated style with classic fonts and dotted dividing lines.
Contempo cover letter template
Keep it classy with a basic cover letter template that never goes out of style.
Whitespace cover letter template
Give your letter a chic and intelligent approach with a free cover letter template that perfectly spaces your information and boldly states your name.
Cover letter templates for top jobs
Use our cover letter examples for guidance and inspiration. We have plenty of examples created by experts for different jobs and scenarios that use the cover letter templates featured on this page.
Let the employer know you’re a great teacher with this unique teaching job cover letter template, which features a bold header.
Administrative assistant
This professional cover letter template will tell the recruiter more about your excellent time management and organizational skills.
Software engineer
You can talk the talk about software and computers, and with this application letter template, you will also walk the walk.
Medical assistant
This clean and straightforward template for a cover letter presents your reliability and enthusiasm for your career.
Web developer
This sleek and elegant cover sheet template perfectly shows how much you know about creating and maintaining websites.
You know your way around different languages, and this fun and original sample cover letter template is the ideal place to show it.
Flight attendant
Possessing excellent interpersonal skills and diplomacy are some of the skills required for this job, so go with a cover letter template that can effectively tell your story.
A no-nonsense job requires a simple and easy-to-read template for a cover letter, and this one hits the mark.
Cover letters templates and examples for unique scenarios
Cover letters are beneficial for many scenarios, and when written correctly, do more than just explain your skills. Our in-depth How to Write a Cover Letter guide teaches you everything you need to know about writing this important document. We have a cover letter format template for every unique situation. Try a cover letter Word template or a cover letter Pages template to customize your document easily.
Entry-level cover letter example template
When you don’t have a lot or any work experience, a cover letter is crucial to properly market yourself as an excellent addition to the team.
Career-change cover letter template and example
When you’re changing careers, you want a standard cover letter template that shows your transferable skills, draws a bridge between your experience and the new job, and explains why you want to work with that company specifically. Just use the content in this cover letter template as inspiration.
Employment gap cover letter example template
When it comes to employment gaps, you only have to address the gaps you feel comfortable discussing in your cover letter. Did you start your own business or explore artistic projects? Connect these experiences to the potential job as this sample cover letter template does.
Unadvertised position cover letter template and example
Don’t see a job posting? No problem! Explain how you heard about the job and why you want to join the team in your resume cover letter template.
“Cold-call” cover letter template and example
You came across a company you like but aren’t sure if they’re hiring. Get on their radar with a cold call cover letter that introduces who you are and your skills that could be valuable to the company, as this application letter template does.
Temporary-to-permanent employee cover letter example template
You like where you work and want to stay there permanently. Use a cover letter template to explain why it’s in the company’s best interest to keep you around.
Seeking promotion cover letter template and example
You’re ready to take the next step in your career and grow within the company. Recap your experience using a professional cover letter template and convince the employer you’re more than qualified for the new job.
Applying for a different position with the same company cover letter template
Do you meet the requirements of a new position in your company? Take the leap and use a template for a cover letter to explain why you’re perfect for the role.
How to use a cover letter template
Choose a cover letter template that highlights your unique qualities.
A cover letter is an extension of your resume. It’s your chance to present yourself to the employer properly and explain why your skills and experience suit the job. Your cover letter design template should answer four significant points:
- Why you want the job
- How you’re prepared to handle the daily requirements of the job
- How you can fit in and adapt to the company’s culture
- How you can help the company move forward
Show your passion and interest in the company.
Use our professional cover letter templates to explain what inspires you about your potential employer. It could be the company’s mission, a new initiative it’s undertaking, or how you can contribute to company goals over the long term. Show the hiring manager you’ve already invested time researching your potential employer, and they’ll be more likely to invest in you.
Match your skills and experiences to the job’s requirements with a suitable cover letter template.
Respond directly to duties and skills listed in the job description, and show your capabilities in those areas through concrete examples from your own experience and training. You can also point out a challenge the company is currently facing and how you can help solve it, similar to what our cover letter templates showcase.
Encourage the hiring manager to learn more about you.
Your cover letter should give hiring managers an incentive to read your resume and follow up for an interview. Be forthright. Recommend that the reader examine your resume for more details on your relevant skills and accomplishments. Conclude by expressing your readiness to meet and discuss how you can contribute. If you’re unsure how to do this, you can review our expertly written application letter templates and examples.
Avoid repeating information from your resume.
While your resume and cover letter template must be similar, they shouldn’t reiterate the same information. Review your resume and note what you want to explain further in your cover letter; it could be a set of skills, a work achievement relevant to the job you’re applying for, or a project that you know will help you stand out. A free downloadable cover letter template from this page will help you tell your story so that you get noticed.
Tailor your cover letter template to the job.
Whether a resume or cover letter, tailoring your document to the job is critical. This includes using keywords from the job description in your writing, using a tone of voice that reflects the company culture and addressing the letter to the hiring manager and not “To whom it may concern.” A cover letter Word template or Apple Pages cover letter template is easy to customize.
Match your resume and cover letter template
A cover letter and resume template match is crucial for a polished job application. After all, cover letters and resumes are strong when they both read and look their best. Luckily for you, we have all the tools and guides you need to build the perfect resume for your cover letter.
- How to Write a Resume : Follow our in-depth guide to learn how to write a strong resume that effectively captures your skills and qualifications.
- Resume Examples : We have an extensive library of resume examples for all types of jobs and industries.
- Resume Templates : From creative to modern and professional, our resume templates are designed by the same experts that create our cover letter templates, are ATS-friendly and easy to customize.
- Resume Builder : With step-by-step guidance and expert phrases, a cv cover letter template combined with our Resume Builder makes it easy to create a resume in minutes.
Cover letter template FAQ
What is a cover letter.
A cover letter is a one-page document you submit alongside your resume or CV . Its purpose is to support the content of your resume by expanding on those achievements, showing your personality and explaining why you’d be a great asset to the company. Even though a cover letter has a supporting role in the application process, it’s no less critical and could potentially decide whether you get hired.
Are cover letters necessary?
Yes. A recent survey found that 83% of hiring managers, recruiters and HR staff consider cover letters essential to the decision-making process. We always recommend writing a cover letter because:
- It allows you to provide information that isn’t in your resume.
- It gives hiring managers and recruiters a glimpse into your personality.
- It has the space you need to market yourself as the best candidate.
Choose a cover letter layout template from this page to increase your chances of getting the job!
How do you write a strong cover letter?
With some dedication, you can write a cover letter for your resume in just 15 minutes — and we’re here to help you.
A successful cover letter should fulfill two aims: It should be formatted neatly for easy reading, and the content should catch hiring managers’ attention. To achieve the first goal, use a cover letter sample template as a model, and keep your letter to the point and one-page long.
To ensure your content fits the bill, consult the job description and pinpoint essential keywords that you should mention in your letter. For example, if you’re applying to a customer service position that stresses knowledge of customer relations management (CRM) systems, mention your experience with CRM in your cover letter. Doing so will also help your letter pass automated applicant tracking systems (ATS), which many employers use to scan cover letters for the right keywords.
Finally, your cover letter should answer the most critical question: Why are you interested in the job and the company? Explain why you think you can succeed in the position and believe you’re a good fit. Employers will be impressed by a cover letter that shows you’ve done your homework and thought about how you can contribute. Download a free professional cover letter template and get started today!
What do employers look for in a cover letter?
A cover letter is a blank canvas where you can formally introduce yourself to the hiring manager — think of it as your sales pitch. Generally speaking, the hiring manager wants to know more about your skills and background, why you want to work for them and how you will help them. Still, this approach may differ depending on your professional experience.
For example, hiring managers will want to know why you have a career gap in your resume if you have one. If you ventured into running a small business or were affected by COVID-19, you’d want to explain what happened and show how your past experiences will help you fill this new role, as our cover letter templates and examples show.
Is it OK to use a cover letter builder?
It’s not just OK to use a cover letter builder but encouraged! Our Cover Letter Builder makes the writing process a breeze by providing over 15 cover letter templates, expert suggestions, step-by-step guidance and customization tools to create and save as many versions of your cover letter as you want. It’s the easiest way to put together a professional cover letter for your resume, and all you have to do to get started is choose the downloadable cover letter template that best works for you.
How long should a cover letter be?
A cover letter should be one page long. The recruiter or hiring manager won’t spend that much time reviewing your application, so your writing must be concise and straightforward. A work cover letter template from this page can help you keep your cover letter organized on one page.
How do you start a cover letter if you don’t know the name?
If you don’t know who to address your cover letter to, here are some options to try:
- Address the cover letter to the department you’re interested in joining. For example, “Dear Creative Department,” “Dear Accounting Department,” or “Dear [Company] Team.”
- If you have the hiring manager’s name but are unsure whether to use titles like Mr., Mrs., or Ms., you can leave it out and use their full name. For example, “Dear John Smith” or “Dear Helena Law.”
Avoid starting your cover letter with greetings such as “To whom it may concern” or “Dear sir or madam” — it’s old-fashioned. A cover letter template sample from this page can point you in the right direction.
Kellie Hanna
Content strategist, career advice expert.
Kellie is the content strategist for My Perfect Resume. She has more than 20 years of experience in digital media and is passionate about helping job seekers navigate their careers. She has a B.A. in English and writing from Temple University.
More cover letter help
5 Best Cover Letter Writing Tips for a Career Change
You’re ready to take the next step in your career; we’re here to help you do it correctly. Follow these five tips to send the right message.
8 Ways To Incorporate Volunteer Work Into Your Cover Letter
No work experience? No problem! Volunteer work can give you the skills and knowledge you need to stand out from the crowd of job applicants.
Get Hired Fast: Best Cover Letter Writing Tips of 2022
A great cover letter can help separate you from the pack. Check out writing tips that can help you get hired fast.
Now that you have picked a template, our cover letter builder is a quick and easy way to complete your cover letter!
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Once you’ve identified job postings that you want to apply for, you'll need to prepare your application materials. Our resources below will take you through how to develop your cover letter and CV or resume, including how to tailor them to the positions you are applying for.
Application materials
While the cover letter and CV or resume are the main standard components of application materials, the expectations for these documents will vary with different positions. In addition, most research positions ask for CVs, while most other positions ask for a resume. Learn the difference between these documents in our resources below!
For sample application materials for postdoc positions, refer to Module 2, Session 2 of The Strategic Postdoc .
For sample application materials for faculty positions, see our Application Materials for Faculty Positions page . Also be sure to check out our short video series Applying for Faculty Positions , which goes step by step through how to create application materials that emphasize your strengths.
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Highlight and use key words from the job description to create a targeted resume and cover letter - and get noticed by the hiring manager and HR. View these annotated samples to:
- Tailor your application to a job description that is broad .
- Tailor your application to a job description that is very detailed and includes a lot of bullet points
Tailor your CV/resume
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- A series of articles about writing a winning industry resume
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Note: Do not copy the text verbatim. It is unethical and unwise, as several employers recognize our samples. For extra help, please schedule an appointment .
- These samples have been generously donated by UCSF students, postdocs, and alumni to offer you ideas about how to present your own skills and experiences. We make no claims that they are perfect, but we offer them as useful examples.
- Notice that section headings and descriptive language are different from academic CV’s.
- Sample resume 1, industry scientist
- Sample resume 2, bioinformaticist
- Sample resume 3, industry scientist
- Sample resume 4, medical writing position
- Sample resume 5, business related position
- Sample resume 1 with cover letter
- Sample resume 2
Sample cover letters
Notice that the documents are shorter and less formal than academic cover letters.
- Sample cover letter 1 for industry
- Sample cover letter 2 for industry
- Sample cover letter 1 with resume
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12 CV cover letter examples
A cover letter for your CV, or covering note is an introductory message that accompanies your CV when applying for a job.
The purpose of the cover letter is simple… Persuade the reader to open your CV.
Learn how to write a cover letter properly, and you will hugely increase your chances of getting responses and landing job interviews.
This guide, with 12 annotated cover letter examples will show you everything you need to know about creating a winning cover note.
Guide contents
- Anatomy of a CV cover letter
- CV cover letter examples
- Cover letter writing guides
Anatomy of a cover letter for your CV
This annotated example of a cover letter shows you how you should structure your cover letters, and the type of information you should be including.
You should always write your CV in the body of your email (or j ob site messaging system) so that it can be read instantly. Never attach it as a separate document, or the recipient probably won’t open it.
Example CV cover letters
These 11 example CV cover letters from a range of industries should give you some good inspiration for creating your own cover letter
Admin CV cover letter
This cover letter is aimed at administrative roles , so it highlights the candidate’s abilities in efficiency, report writing and meeting deadlines, whilst demonstrating the types of environments they have worked in.
Learn how to write a cover letter step-by-step here.
Customer service CV cover letter
This customer service cover letter briefly explains the candidate’s length of experience in the field and highlights some of the more important customer service skills such as call handling, order taking and complaint resolution.
This gives the reader an excellent introduction to the candidate and should certainly encourage them to open the CV.
See our full customer service cover letter guide, sales assistant cover letter example and waiter/waitress cover letter example .
Finance CV cover letter
As a finance professional, it’s important to highlight your specialisms within finance, the types of companies you’ve worked for, and high level functions you’ve carried out within your cover letter. This will give the hiring manager a good overall feel of your abilities, and if it’s well tailored to the role, should provide them with enough info to excite them about your CV.
Quick tip: If you struggle with spelling and grammar, try our partner’s CV builder
Events CV cover letter
This events manager candidate has done a great job of summarising the type and size of events they manage, along with details of core skills such as leadership, project delivery and stakeholder management.
This certainly provides enough info to create a buzz around the CV attached and encourage the recipient to open it.
Executive assistant CV cover letter
This executive assistant CV cover letter provides a good high level intro to the candidate showing the reader key business support knowledge in areas such as admin, diary management and document management. It also shows that the candidate is confident supporting senior business figures.
Graduate CV cover letter
As a graduate , your cover letter will need to be a little longer than an experienced candidates, to compensate for your lack of experience and really sell yourself.
This candidate speaks in lots of detail about their education, qualifications, and extra-curricular work which relates to the roles they are applying for.
IT CV cover letter
As an IT candidate, it’s important not only to highlight your technical skills, but also show how you apply those skills in the workplace to translate real benefits for your employer.
This candidate gives a good overview of the candidates technical abilities and the types of projects they apply them to, along with results they achieve.
Marketing CV cover letter
This marketing cover letter provides readers with a summary of the candidate’s core marketing abilities such as media planning, brand awareness and cost reduction. It also explains the types of marketing campaigns and companies they have experience with – a great high-level intro.
More cover letters
Warehouse Operative cover letter – Training Contract cover letter – Cleaning Job cover letter – Nursery Assistant cover letter – Recruitment Consultant cover letter – Dental Nurse cover letter –
Chef cover letter – Editorial Assistant cover letter – Aircraft Mechanic cover letter – Biomedical Science cover letter – Cabin Crew cover letter – Finance Assistant cover letter – Hotel Receptionist cover letter – Asset Management cover letter – Assistant Psychologist cover letter – Beauty Therapist cover letter – Cafe Worker cover letter – HR Administrator cover letter – NQT cover letter – Quantity Surveyor cover letter
Project manager CV cover letter
A project manager’ s cover letter needs to quickly explain to recipients the types of projects they lead and the technical expertise they bring to the projects. It’s also important to describe level of experience, seniority and background.
See full project manager cover letter example + writing guide
Operations manager
This operations management CV provides a brief introduction to the types of operations the candidate manages and the firms they work for.
They also touch upon some core operations skills such as efficiency, logistics and ROI improvement.
Sales CV cover letter
As a sales candidate, this cover letter shows the types of business this person can generate and the size and scale of the impact they create by highlighting some sales results.
It also mentions some core sales skills like business development, presenting, working under pressure and closing deals.
Teacher cover letter
This teacher cover letter does a great job of introducing the candidate, and showing the recipient the key facts they will be looking for, such as; the age group they teach, subject specialisms, and the results they have achieved.
The cover letter is brief and gets to the point quickly, so that readers will instantly look to open the attached CV .
How to write your CV cover letter
Now that you’ve seem good examples of cover letters to accompany your CV (or resume if you are in the USA) this guide will show exactly how to write your own, and the content that needs to be included .
Send your CV cover letter in email format (when possible)
When applying for jobs online you usually have 2 choices…
1) Send a message via the job website’s messaging system
2) Send the recruiter an email directly
If you can find an email address for the recruiter, then I would always recommend sending an email directly because it gives you more control.
When you send a message through a job website, it will transfer into an email with basic formatting and an auto-generated headline , which will look like this when the recruiter receives it.
If you cannot find an email address for the recruiter on the job advert, then try searching LinkedIn or the company website to find the relevant contact.
You may not always be able to find an email address, but when you can – always send an email.
Make your subject line appealing
As you can see in the picture above, a bad subject line can kill your chances of actually having your email read in the first place.
Your subject line should stand out and give the recruiter a reason to open your email.
When recruiters look into their inbox, they are looking for one thing; a candidate who can do the job they are advertising – so give that to them in your subject line.
Your subject line should be a short summary of your experience that relates directly to the job you are applying for.
The following are good subject line examples;
KS2 Teacher with 5 years experience
Front End Web developer with HTML, HTML & JavaScript experience
Junior Graphic designer with 1st BA Hons Graphic Design
If your subject line shows that you have one or two of the most important requirements for the job, your email should get opened every time.
Address the recruiter by name
To get the relationship off on the right foot, you should try to address the recruiter by name if you can.
Often the recruiter’s details will appear on the job advert but sometimes you may have to check out the company website or do some digging around on LinkedIn.
If you really can’t find the name, then it’s not the end of the world – just start with a simple friendly opening like “ Hi ”
(If you applying to a more traditional organisation such as an academic post for a university, you may want to use something a bit more formal like “ Dear sir or madam ”)
Use a friendly yet professional tone
It’s important to sound professional when writing a cover letter but you also need to demonstrate your ability to communicate with other people and show some personality.
If your email is too casual and written in an over-familiar tone, then you will come across us un-professional.
But on the other hand, if your email is too formal and shows no signs of rapport building, you risk appearing as somebody who lacks social skills.
So when writing your cover letter, try to strike a nice balance of professionalism and friendliness.
Opening with a line such as “ hope you’re well ” is a nice way to breathe a bit of personality into your cover letter.
Ensure that your spelling and grammar is perfect throughout your cover letter because sloppy mistakes are a huge red flag for recruiters.
Keep it brief
Unless the job advert specifies otherwise; keep your cover letter short and sweet.
Recruiters and employers receive hundreds of job applications per week, so they don’t want to read a 2 page cover letter.
Depending on the role, around 2-4 sentences should be enough for the content of the cover letter.
You just need to write enough to persuade them to open your CV – It should roughly contain the same amount of information as your CV profile or personal statement.
Show how your skills match the job
To ensure that recruiters open your CV, you simply need to explain how your skills and experience match the job requirements from the advert.
Scan the job advert to discover what the most important candidate abilities are, and show how your previous experience has prepared you to cover these.
In particular, look out for any requirements that are essential to the job .
Focus on what you have to offer at this stage and not what you want.
At this stage, your covering letter is simply a means of getting the recruiter to open your CV, so it’s too early to talk about salary demands etc. Save that for your initial conversation with the recruiter.
Include a professional signature
Round off your cover letter with a friendly salutation such as “Regards” and a smart signature which includes your name and most direct contact method (usually mobile phone for most people)
A professional email signature will show recruiters that you understand business-email etiquette and ensure they have a means of contacting you – even if they can’t open your CV for any reason.
Writing a CV cover letter
Hopefully this guide has given you everything you need to create a winning cover letter that will ensure you CV gets opened every time you send it.
Just remember to keep it brief, be friendly, tailor it towards your target role, and give recruiters some good reasons to be interested in you.
Good luck with the job hunt!
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What makes the best cover letter format · Name: Your name is the primary focus of your cover letter heading so you'll want it to stand out. · Job Title: If you
While the cover letter and CV or resume are the main standard components of application materials, the expectations for these documents will vary with different
Send your CV cover letter in email format (when possible) · Make your subject line appealing · Address the recruiter by name · Use a friendly yet professional tone.