best cover letter examples uk

11 Cover letter templates with examples

Not sure what type of cover letter is going to catch the eye of hiring managers, so they actually read your CV?

A well-written cover letter can be a game-changer in your job search, so long as you think carefully about what you include.

No need to panic, though.

For an easy win, use one of our 11 impressive cover letter templates, along with inspirational examples and a step-by-step writing guide.

CV templates 

Basic cover letter template

Dear [Recruiter’s name],

I am writing to apply for the [Job title] at [Company name], as advertised on [Website name]. With [Number of years of experience] in [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

During my current job at [Company name], I [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

I am eager to bring my [Mention suitable skill + aspirations] to the [Job title] at [Employer’s name] and I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Kind regards,

[Name] [Phone number] [Email]

Basic cover letter example

Short cover letter template

Hi [Recruiter name],

I’d like to express my interest in the role of [Job title] as advertised on [Website name].

I am currently working in a [Current role] role for [Current employer], where I am responsible for [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

I’m looking for a new challenge that will [Aspirations + mention of suitable skill].

It would be great to hear from you, and I am available to interview at any time.

Short cover letter example

Build your CV now 

Admin cover letter template

Good morning [Hiring Manager],

I am writing to submit my application for the position of [Role name] at [Company name]. As a passionate and committed individual with [Number of years] of experience and a track record of [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible], I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the continued success of your institution.

I have gained valuable insights into the [Core responsibilities of role + more quantified achievements.] In my current role as [Current role], I have continuously facilitated positive change and enhanced [Company name’s] reputation.

Some notable achievements I would like to mention include [List quantified achievements].

With all my experience and a [Qualification] in [Subject], I hope that you recognise my enthusiasm and will consider me for the position.

Kind regards, [Name] [Phone number] [Email address]

Admin cover letter example

Finance cover letter template

I am excited to apply for the [Job title] at [Company name]. As a results-orientated professional with a track record of [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible], I am confident that my expertise aligns perfectly with the needs of your organisation.

With [Number of years] of experience, I have developed [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

In my current role as a [Current role] at [Current employer], I implemented a [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of further discussing my qualifications, skills, and contributions I will bring as your new [Job title].

Finance cover letter example

Sales cover letter template

I hope you’re well. I am writing to apply for the [Job title] at [Company name]. With [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

I am eager to apply my proactive and goal-orientated approach to drive revenue growth at [Company name]. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience to discuss how my dedication and skills can contribute to the success of your sales team.

Sales cover letter example

Customer service cover letter template

I’d like to apply for the position of [Job title] as advertised on [Website name].

With [Years] of experience in customer-facing positions for leading retail companies, I have gathered extensive customer service skills in [Type of setting].

In my current role with [Company name], I am responsible for [Role responsibilities + quantified achievement if possible].

My role has given me [Aspirations + mention suitable skill].

I believe my skill sets and product knowledge will allow me to fit perfectly with the requirements you are seeking in a candidate, and I am available for an interview at short notice.

Customer service cover letter example

Project management cover letter template

I am interested in applying for the role of [Job title] . My experience in [List core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

I am enclosing my CV for your consideration, which further highlights my experience, which I am positive fully meets the demands of this role.

Project management cover letter example

Education cover letter template

I hope you’re well.

I am writing concerning the advert for a [Job title] at [Name of educational setting]. Over the past [Number of years], I have [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

I am seeking a new opportunity that will allow me to [Aspirations + mention of suitable skill].

I am keen to talk to you more about the job role, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Education cover letter example

Internal promotion cover letter template

Hey [Recruiter name],

I hope you and the team are well! I am thrilled to apply for the promotion to [Job title] of the [Department] team at [Company name], as advertised on [Website name]. With my [Number of years] of service as a [Current role], within the company, supported by [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

As a dedicated member of staff, I am eager to streamline and innovate the administrative operations at [Company name] in this new role. I would love to discuss my vision for this role further in an interview at your discretion.

All the best, [Name] [Phone number] [Email address]

Internal promotion cover letter example

Student cover letter template

Good morning [Recruiter name],

I would like to submit my application for the [Job title] at [Company name], where I believe my skills in [Industry] can make a valuable contribution.

As a highly driven [Core responsibilities of studies + quantified achievement if possible].

I am eager to continue learning and to have the opportunity to work alongside the team at [Employer’s name]. I am available for an interview at your convenience to further discuss my qualifications. Thank you for considering my application.

Student cover letter example

No experience cover letter template

I am an enthusiastic [Job title/student] at [Current employer/School or university name] with excellent [Core skills], seeking to apply for the [Job title] at [Company name].

In my current role as [Current role] at [Current employer], I [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

I am excited to contribute my [Aspirations + mention of suitable skill]. I am available for an interview from [Insert date] and I am eager to discuss how my skills can benefit your company’s success.

Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely, [Name] [Phone number] [Email address]

No experience cover letter example

How to write a cover letter

Here are five steps on how to write a cover letter to ensure you get hiring managers in the UK and beyond to look at your CV .

Include your cover letter within the email or message

When submitting your job application, always include your cover letter within the body of your email or message. Never attached it as a separate document.

“But why?”, you ask.

Well, you should instantly grab the recruiter’s attention the moment they look at your application. If they have to endure the hassle of opening a document, it slows everything down, and they may not even bother.

Here’s how to include your cover letter in the body of your application message:

Tailor your greeting by directly addressing the recruiter

To get your cover letter off to a great start, make a brilliant first impression by using the hiring manager or recruiter’s name.

Avoid sounding overly formal or informal, though.

For instance, you could address the recruiter using:

• Hi [insert recruiter’s name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Skip the conventional “Dear Sir or Madam” unless you’re targeting highly formal companies.

Here are a few tips on how to locate the recruiter’s name:

• Check the job ad – Sometimes, you can find their name and email address within the job advert itself.
• Visit the company website – Look at the “About Us” section to unearth the contact info for the recruitment team or head of department.
• Use LinkedIn – If you’re having a hard time pinning down the specific team and company related to the job opening, a quick search can reveal the person in charge of hiring for that specific job.

If you have no success in finding their name, don’t stress. Just say “Hi” – that’ll more than do the trick. Aim for a greeting that is both professional and welcoming.

Here are some examples of how to address your cover letter if you have trouble finding their name:

Be personable and professional

Your cover letter should be a blend of personality and professionalism .

Coming across as too casual can make you sound a little unprofessional while appearing excessively formal can make you look stiff.

Go for a professional, friendly tone.

Begin with something such as, “I hope you’re well” to bring a personal touch.

Pinpoint your applicable skills

Your cover letter’s purpose? To entice hiring managers to read your CV . To do this, quickly allude to your relevant skills tailored to the job you’re interested in.

Review the job description and note the essential qualifications and skills the recruiter wants.

Concentrate on these skills in your cover letter and tell them why you’re perfect for the role.

This gives recruiters the confidence they need to consider you for the job.

For instance, you could say:

• Finance – “My strategic planning skills allowed me to identify key growth opportunities and revenue drivers, ultimately leading to the impressive revenue increase of over £100 million.”
• Marine engineer – “I excel in the development and implementation of predictive maintenance programs, ensuring equipment reliability and longevity. I implemented a predictive maintenance programme that reduced downtime of critical equipment by 25%, as well as saved £120K+ annually through purchasing supplies from suitable industry vendors.”
• Medical writer – “My capacity to translate complex medical information into clear and accessible content for various audiences is a core skill that has empowered me to produce 15 high-quality educational materials. Moreover, my strong research proficiency was instrumental in increasing audience comprehension and patient satisfaction scores by 30% and 15% respectively.”

Conclude and add a professional signature

Your sign-off must be warm. So, say something like “Best regards” or “Kind regards.” Just be yourself while staying polite.

To add a nice finishing touch to your cover letter , add a professional signature at the very bottom.

Doing so helps the person on the other end know how to reach you and gives your cover letter a professional touch.

Here’s what you need to include in your professional sign-off:

• Your full name – Add your first and last name, like “Jessica Smith”. It’s just there so recruiters know who you are.
• Your phone number – Preferably, put your mobile number in here so recruiters can quickly get hold of you.
• Your email address – This must be a professional email address, like [email protected]. Don’t include an overly casual email – remember, this is a job application.

If you like, you could also include a couple of extra details:

• Your job title – For example, “Administrator” or “Delivery Driver.”
• A link to your LinkedIn – If you use LinkedIn, insert a link to your profile – this is like your professional social media.

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Cover letter examples in the UK (2024)

Discover our selection of UK cover letter examples adapted to every job title. Follow our tips on writing a cover letter, find inspiration and craft yours with the help of our cover letter builder.

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Cover letter examples by industry

Academic cover letter examples, business cover letter examples, creative cover letter examples, finance/legal cover letter examples, healthcare cover letter examples, office support cover letter examples, other cover letter examples, sales cover letter examples, student cover letter examples, technical cover letter examples.

Get professional cover letter guidance

• Substitute Teacher

Project Manager

Administrative assistant.

• Account Manager
• Case Manager
• Executive Assistant

Graphic Design

Financial analyst.

• Law Enforcement

Physician Assistant

• Dental Hygiene
• Massage Therapist
• Medical Assistant
• Nurse Practitioner
• Phlebotomist
• Social Work

Customer Service

Office manager.

• Data Analyst

Construction

• Career Change
• Electrician
• Firefighter
• Internal Position
• Short Cover Letter

Sales Associate

Sales manager.

• Sales Representative

Scholarship

• Entry Level
• Recent Graduate

Software Engineer

Web developer.

• Cyber Security
• Electrical Engineering
• Engineering
• Software Developer

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Benefits of using cover letter examples

The best cover letter examples provide valuable insights into the art of effective cover letter writing. Here are some key advantages you can derive from using them:

• Guidance : good cover letter examples provide a roadmap for cover letter writing, guiding you on what to include and how to structure. They help you understand the layout, language, and kind of information a hiring manager is looking for.
• Tailored approach : examples offer insights into how to tailor your cover letters for specific industries or positions. This helps you write a cover letter that resonates.
• Inspiration : if you’re unsure of how to start or what to write, looking at examples can spark ideas and get your creative juices flowing.
• Time saved : instead of starting from scratch, using examples speeds up the process. They provide a framework that you just need to adapt to your needs.
• No mistakes : by following excellent cover letter examples, you reduce the chances of making common mistakes in your cover letters, such as wrong formatting or including irrelevant information.
• Confidence boost : knowing that your cover letters align with professional standards can boost your confidence during the job application process.

A cover letter example for every situation

Our cover letter builder allows you to create cover letters that will best suit your needs. You can write a reference letter , letter of intent , cold cover letter or a letter of interest to set you apart from other job seekers. Discover hundreds of job cover letter examples you can use for inspiration.

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Customise this cover letter example

[Recipient’s Name]]

[Recipient’s Position]]

[Company’s Name]]

[Company’s Address]]

[City, Postcode]]

Dear [Recipient’s Name],]

I am writing to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company’s Name], as advertised [mention where you saw the job posting]. With my [type of your degree], a [specific skill], and [number of years of experience], I believe I am well-equipped to meet the demands of this role.]

In my previous role as a [Your Previous Job Title] at [Your Previous Company’s Name], I [describe one key achievement or responsibility that showcased your skills]. My experience with [mention a tool or a method used in your field] and my ability to [mention another skill or trait relevant to the job] have equipped me to make significant contributions to your team.]

What fascinates me about [Company’s Name] is [mention something you admire about the company or how your values align with theirs]. I am confident that my [mention any specific quality or experience] would make me a valuable addition to your team.]

I am eager to bring my unique skill set to [Company’s Name] and help achieve [mention a goal or vision of the company]. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my application with you further. Thank you for considering my application.]

Best regards,]

[Your Name]

This cover letter sample is designed to serve as an inspiration and a guiding tool. It should not be used verbatim but customised according to your needs. Tailoring the letter to your personal situation and the specific job requirements will help you make a stronger impression on potential employers.

Key tips for using job cover letter examples

Tip 1: understand the structure.

Good cover letter examples provide a blueprint for your own letter. Take note of the structure provided – the introduction, the body of the letter where your qualifications are outlined, and the closing statement.

Tip 2: Personalise

While examples are a great starting point, it’s important to inject your own voice and experiences into the cover letter. Avoid copying and pasting the example verbatim.

Tip 3: Tailor to the Job

Cover letter examples often showcase how to tailor a letter to a specific job or industry. Pay close attention to how the example highlights relevant skills and experiences and model that in your own letter.

Tip 4: Use as a Checklist

Examples can provide a checklist of sorts for your own cover letter. They often include key components like the salutation, introduction, body, closing, and signature.

Tip 5: Keep a professional Tone

Cover letter samples can help you strike the right tone in your cover letter. Formal but not stiff, professional but with a hint of personality. Use the cover letter examples as a guide to establishing the right tone for your letter.

Tip 6: Align your letter with Your CV

It’s essential to ensure that your cover letter aligns seamlessly with your CV. The experiences and skills you mention in the cover letter should be reflected and expanded upon in your CV. Inconsistencies between the two can raise red flags for potential employers.

Tip 7: Proofread

Finally, cover letter samples are typically well-written, to the point and free of errors. They serve as a reminder to thoroughly proofread your own work before submission, ensuring a polished and professional application.

Cover letter examples UK: FAQs

1. what is a cover letter example.

Also known as a covering letter example, it is a model that provides guidance on how to structure and phrase your own cover letter. it typically includes all the key components of a cover letter, such as the recipient’s information, introduction, body made of three to four paragraphs, closing, and signature.]

Unlike a cover letter template with blanks to fill, great cover letter examples demonstrate the professional tone and style that a cover letter should have. They can also provide insights into how to tailor the document to a particular job or industry. However, a cover letter sample should not be copied verbatim. It’s crucial to personalise your cover letter, injecting your own experiences, skills, and voice into the document to make a strong impression on potential employers.]

2. How can a cover letter example help me?

A cover letter example can be helpful in several ways. First, you don’t need to ask yourself how long a cover letter should be anymore. An example provides a framework to structure your own cover letter, including all the necessary elements, such as salutations, introduction, body, closing, and signature. Second, it serves as inspiration, offering ideas on how to phrase your experiences, skills, and goals in a compelling way. Third, an example can guide you in maintaining a professional tone and style throughout your letter. Finally, it also suggests how to personalise and tailor your cover letter to a specific job or industry.]

3. What is in a good cover letter example?

Wondering how to write a cover letter example? A good cover letter example should encompass a clear structure that includes an engaging introduction, a convincing body where you articulate your qualifications and unique selling points, and a compelling closing statement that expresses your interest in the role and the company.]

It should also provide an illustration of a professional tone and style while emphasizing the importance of personalisation — exhibiting how to tailor the cover letter to specific job requirements and company values. Furthermore, it should be error-free, demonstrating the importance of meticulous proofreading to ensure a polished and professional application.]

4. What is a good example of a covering letter for a job application?

A good covering letter example for a job application would begin with a compelling introduction that grabs the reader’s attention and briefly outlines your interest in the role and the company. It would then move on to the body of the letter, where you would detail your qualifications, skills, and experiences that make you a strong fit for the position.]

The body of the covering letter example would not only list these qualifications but also provide concrete examples of how you’ve applied them in previous roles. The letter would then conclude with a strong closing statement that expresses your enthusiasm for potentially joining the company and your eagerness to further discuss your qualifications.]

Throughout the letter, it would maintain a professional tone, be meticulously proofread for any errors, and be tailored specifically to the job and company to which you’re applying.]

Move your cover letter to the top of the yes pile

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Cover letter examples and samples

by Michael Cheary

Still struggling with your cover letter? 

Whether you’ve written hundreds of cover letters before, or it’s your first time putting one together, knowing how to get started can often feel like a challenge. Especially when it comes to matching your current career path and experience level.  

To help give you some structure, here are some cover letter examples that might inspire you:

Basic cover letter example

If you’ve never written a cover letter before, it’s a good idea to start out simple. 

Open by saying where you found the role, and give a quick summary of the job you’re applying for. Then move on to cover your main motivations for applying, as well as what makes you stand out from other applicants. 

As with your CV, try and keep things clear and concise. We’d suggest writing around half a side of A4 should do it.  

And always make sure you’ve done your research. Your cover letter is the perfect place to showcase your skills – but always match them to the job description, as well as including what you know about the company.

Free Cover Letter Template

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What is a cover letter?

How to write a cover letter

Recent graduate cover letter example

If you’ve recently finished uni, your cover letter might look a little different.

Although you’ll want to maintain a similar structure as above, you won’t necessarily have the previous experience to help back up your skills.

In other words, it’s time to make the most of your degree.

Good things to include range from your degree classification, through to details of specific modules that may relate to the role. You could also include more information about your dissertation and extracurricular activities. 

The important thing to remember is that your cover letter is another opportunity for you to stand out from other graduates – have this in mind when you’re putting yours together. 

Graduate Cover Letter Template

What graduate employers really want

Career break cover letter example

When it comes to explaining a gap in your CV, your cover letter is your best friend.

It’s the only place in your application you could actually expand on your reasons for taking a break. Which could help to put a potential employer’s mind at rest, if they were worried about your commitment to the role.

Of course, you don’t need to address the gap at all, if you aren’t comfortable doing so. But even just one or two lines could really help your application land. Not to mention make a big difference when it comes to your confidence levels.

Just be mindful of your tone. It should never be apologetic; it should always be positive. And always explain why you see this as the perfect role for you to return to work.

Career Break Cover Letter Template

How to explain a gap in your CV

Redundancy cover letter example

Recently been made redundant, and not sure how to approach the subject? Your cover letter can help.

Again, you don’t have to dwell on the reasons for too long. Instead, provide a brief description of the reason you were let go (e.g. due to company downsizing, restructuring, closure etc.). Then place precedence back on the positives.  

Focusing on your performance during your previous position in this section is a great way to reinforce your credentials (regardless of the reason for redundancy), but references to your academic career can also be used here.

Remember: many people have faced redundancy in their careers, and bounced straight back. Your recruiter will probably have worked with many similar individuals in their time, so never feel embarrassed to be up-front-and honest about the situation yourself.

Redundancy Cover Letter Template

How to: Deal with redundancy

Career change cover letter example

Career changers are another group who could really benefit from a well-written cover letter. 

It’s the perfect opportunity for you to focus on your transferable skills, and add some valuable context to your CV – which may be necessary if your experience levels in a similar role are fairly limited. 

As with all cover letters, use the job description to help inform what you write. You’ve got a ready-made list of skills they’re looking for in their ideal candidate. Your job is to make sure they come across. 

You’ll also want to briefly describe the reason you’ve decided to change careers. Again, just a few sentences will do here, but they could really help to explain why you want to work in a new industry. 

Spoiler alert: the role you’re applying for is the main reason. 

How to: Change careers

What are transferable skills?

Other cover letter samples

The examples above will help give you a good idea on how to structure your cover letter. But they aren’t the only options. 

Other cover letter samples you could look at include a cover letter template for school leavers , focussing more on academic achievements, and a cover letter template for part-time work .

However, it’s important to remember that these templates are only intended to be a starting point. To write a really effective cover letter, you’ll need to tailor what you write to your own strengths, as well as to the role you’re applying for. 

Remember: you can always use cover letter examples for inspiration. But copy & paste should not be your friend here.   

Need more cover letter advice?

It’s not just cover letter examples you’ll find on reed.co.uk. 

We’ve got a whole host of advice on how to write a cover letter the right way. Even if you feel like you’ve got the basics covered. 

Other areas of cover letter help we have on offer include how to overcome common cover letter problems and five things you need to stop doing on your cover letter .

We also have a quick guide on how to write a speculative cover letter . So whether you’ve found the role on our site or not, we’ve got you covered.*

Read more cover letter help & tips . 

Need a work now? Have a look at all of our current vacancies .

*We can also help with puns. 

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How to write a cover letter

As your one opportunity to sell your skills and experience to potential employers, it's important to get your cover letter right. Discover how to write and format a cover letter, take inspiration from our template examples and learn more about avoiding common mistakes

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is a document sent alongside your CV when applying for jobs. It acts as a personal introduction and helps to sell your application.

Cover letters are necessary as they give you the chance to explain to an employer why you're the best candidate for the job. You do this by highlighting your relevant skills and experience while keeping the position you're applying for in mind.

Not to be confused with personal statements for your CV , cover letters should complement your CV but not duplicate it. The consensus among recruiters when it comes to the length of these documents is the shorter, the better. Typically, three to five concise paragraphs, cover letters should not exceed one A4 page.

If you're planning on sending the cover letter electronically, put the text in the body of the email rather than as an attachment, to avoid it being detected by spam filters.

Applications should always include a cover letter unless the job advert advises you differently.

How do I write a good cover letter?

Before writing your cover letter, it's important that you do your research. While reading the job description thoroughly is essential, it's not enough on its own. To help you craft a successful cover letter, you'll need to find out more about:

• who will be reading your cover letter
• the organisation and its culture
• the industry it operates in and any relevant news
• company competitors and market position.
• the organisation's goals over the next five years.

When writing your cover letter, keep it brief and ensure it emphasises your suitability for the job. Cover letters can be broken down into the following sections:

• First paragraph - The opening statement should set out why you're writing the letter. Begin by stating the position you're applying for, where you saw it advertised and when you're available to start.
• Second paragraph - Highlight any relevant experience and demonstrate how your skills match the specific requirements of the job description. Summarise any additional strengths and explain how these could benefit the company.
• Third paragraph - Cover why you're suitable for the job, what attracted you to this type of work, why you're interested in working for the company and what you can offer the organisation. This is a good opportunity to show off your knowledge about them.
• Last paragraph - Use the closing paragraph to round up your letter. Reiterate your interest in the role and indicate your desire for an interview. Now is the time to mention any dates when you're unavailable.

Once finished, read through the document and cut out any unnecessary words and sentences. Don't fill up space by repeating what's already covered in your CV. As a rule, only mention your current salary or salary expectations if the employer has specifically asked you to. If you're asked to include this information, put it between the third and last paragraphs.

Unless the job advert states differently - for example, it may ask you to provide your CV and cover letter as a Word document - save it with a .PDF file extension to ensure it can be opened and read on any machine. Windows PCs and Macs don't always work in harmony - Windows uses a .docx file extension and Macs .pages but if the recruiter uses the opposite system, they may not be able to open your file. Using a .PDF file extension should solve this.

If you need help with your CV take a look at  how to write a CV .

How should I address a cover letter?

Always try and address your cover letter directly to the person who will be reading it. Bear in mind that you're more likely to receive a reply if you send it to the right person.

For advertised roles, the person to address the application to is often named in the job description.

When applying through an agency, aim to address the cover letter to a specific recruitment consultant.

If a contact isn't listed, or if you're applying speculatively , you'll need to do some research.

Visit the company website to see if you can find the name of their hiring manager, conduct a Google search to see if you can find their details, or try to discover if they're on LinkedIn.

After searching extensively online, there's nothing wrong with giving the organisation a call to ask who to address your cover letter to.

If you're really struggling to find a named contact, you can use a general greeting such as:

• Dear Sir/Madam
• Dear Hiring manager
• Dear Human resources director.

However, general greetings should only be used once you have exhausted all other methods of finding a named contact.

Should I disclose a disability in my cover letter?

Deciding whether to disclose a disability in a cover letter is a personal choice. If you feel comfortable doing so, focus on your strengths and how your disability has shaped your resilience and problem-solving skills. Briefly mention any necessary accommodations without dwelling on limitations.

Alternatively, consider waiting to discuss your disability in person to build rapport and address specific concerns. Remember, employers are legally obligated to make reasonable adjustments for disabled employees, so your disclosure can be a positive step towards a supportive work environment.

Take inspiration from our example 'disclosing a disability' cover letter below.

How do I sign off a cover letter?

How you sign off your cover letter depends on how you addressed it. If you include a named contact, sign it off with 'Yours sincerely'. If you use a general greeting, finish with 'Yours faithfully'.

Example cover letters

• Sample cover letter  - Used to highlight your skills and experience and to express your suitability and passion for the job, cover letters are used to encourage recruiters to look at your CV. Attention to detail is crucial and the spelling, grammar and formatting needs to be spot on. Take a look at our sample cover letter for inspiration.
• Speculative cover letter  - These can sometimes be an effective method of creating an opportunity. To ensure that speculative cover letters are successful, do your research on the company you're applying to. Using our cover letter template, discover what to include in speculative applications.
• Cover letter by a Masters graduate  - You probably embarked on a Masters to expand your subject knowledge, gain industry contacts and improve your job prospects but you need to know how to sell your postgraduate qualification to employers.
• Cover letter for a jobseeker with no experience  - It can be tough applying for a job with no experience, but our example cover letter shows you how to promote yourself to an employer if you haven't got any directly related work experience.
• Explaining a gap in your CV  - Knowing how to navigate around gaps in your CV can be tricky but it's a mistake to try and gloss over them. Your cover letter is the perfect place to explain these gaps in your employment history to potential employers. Take a look at our sample cover letter to find out how to go about it.
• Cover letter for changing career  - Find out how to explain a change of direction in our example cover letter for career changers . You'll need to briefly cover why you want to change your career and relate your past experience and wealth of skills to the industry/job you're applying to.
• Cover letter by an international graduate  - If you'd like to expand your horizons by working abroad , take a look at our cover letter of an international student applying for a job in the UK. You'll need to do your research if you apply for a job in another country, as their application rules may differ.
• Disclosing a disability  - Just like your gender, marital status and number of dependants, your disability doesn't affect your ability to do a job, and you're not legally required to disclose it on your CV or in your cover letter. However, if you'd like to disclose a disability to outline any adjustments you may need, this sample cover letter will show you how.
• Internship cover letter - To set yourself above the competition you need to successfully sell your relevant skills and experience while conveying your passion for the role. As well as explaining to employers what the opportunity could do for you, you'll need to communicate what you could do for the company. Discover how to craft the perfect application for a formal internship with our dedicated template.
• Apprenticeship cover letter - Apprenticeships are an increasingly popular route into work, as well as a great alternative to university . Find out how to apply for apprenticeship roles with our focused cover letter example.

For inspiration and guidance on crafting a CV, see our example CVs .

When should I follow up my application?

It's always a good idea to follow up on a job application if you don't hear back. If two weeks have passed and you've had no response, send an email to the hiring manager to check that your application has been received. Use this opportunity to reiterate your interest in the role and why you think you'd be an asset to the company.

Keep this email brief. It shouldn't act as a second cover letter or attempt to replace or repeat the original.

What are some top tips for writing a cover letter?

With employers often receiving lots of applications for each vacancy, it's important for your cover letter to make a lasting impression. To achieve this, you'll need to:

• Tailor to the organisation - You should rewrite your cover letter every time you apply for a position to target the company. Sending out a generic letter for all applications rarely yields positive results and recruiters can spot your lack of time and effort from a mile away.
• Format - Presentation is important so you'll need to format your cover letter properly. Make sure the document is as uncluttered as possible. Use the same font and size as you use in your CV and if you're sending it through the post or handing it in, use good quality plain white paper to print it on.
• Use keywords that appear in the job advert - This lets the employer know that you've read and understood the job description. It also demonstrates that you've taken the time to tailor your application to the job.
• Identify your USPs - These are your unique selling points (USPs). Be positive about what you have to offer and clearly outline how your skills and experience meet those requested in the job description. Demonstrate why you're the perfect candidate.
• Include examples - Back up the claims in your cover letter with real evidence or examples that show how and when you've used your skills and experience.
• Save a copy - If you're invited to interview, you might need to refer back to it.

If you're a student or recent graduate, you can make an appointment with your university's careers and employability service to access further help when writing your cover letter. You'll be able to talk with specially trained advisers, get advice on what to include and have a professional eye look over your application before sending.

What should I avoid when writing a cover letter?

While your CV outlines your academic achievements and your employment history, whether you're invited to interview usually hinges on your cover letter.

'Mistakes in your cover letter can create a negative impression,' says Carl Jukes, employability adviser at the University of Birmingham. 'Employers often use cover letters to assess your attention to detail, communication skills, and professionalism. Mistakes can make you appear careless or unqualified for the position. It's essential to thoroughly proofread and edit your cover letter to ensure it is error free.'

To ensure your cover letter doesn't stand out for the wrong reasons, here are eight things to avoid when writing one:

• Being overly friendly - While a cover letter should give a recruiter an insight into who you are as a person, being overly friendly is a big no-no. Avoid writing about your personal life and steer clear of jokes and sarcasm. 'Remember that a cover letter is a formal business document, and maintaining a professional tone is crucial,' says Carl. 'It's best to strike a balance by being polite, enthusiastic, and respectful without overstepping professional boundaries.' Similarly, try not to sound too keen. Enthusiasm for the role is important, but don't go overboard. Your cover letter needs to sound genuine; employers can spot insincerity a mile away.
• Only focusing on what the company can do for you - This mistake will kill your application before it gets started. Instead of explaining what you can gain from joining the organisation, use your cover letter as an opportunity to detail how your knowledge, skills and experience can benefit the company. Carl points out that you need to 'address an employer's pain points or challenges and explain how you can contribute to their success.' To achieve this, do some research into the company. Use a range of resources - from looking at the employer's vision, mission and values, to reviewing their social media posts and connecting with current staff on LinkedIn. To find out if you've successfully tailored your cover letter, remove the employer's name from the document and read it through to judge whether you could use the same letter when applying for a similar role at another company.
• Underselling yourself - No one likes to sound like they're boasting but you need to make sure you're not underselling your achievements either. Don't be afraid to highlight your accomplishments and USPs, and don't shy away from confidently stating you can carry out certain competencies well. 'If you downplay your achievements or fail to communicate your value effectively, the employer may assume you're not a strong candidate,' explains Carl. 'It is essential to highlight your strengths, experiences, and unique contributions to make a compelling case for why you're a good fit for the role.' Try asking someone who doesn't know you personally, such as a careers adviser, to read through your letter to ensure you've struck the right balance between confidence and cockiness.
• Drawing attention to your weaknesses - Avoid sentences such as 'Although I don't have any experience in (specific competency) I'm willing to learn.' Instead, swap this for 'My experience in (this field) has given me X and Y transferrable skills…'. There's no place for negative or passive sentences in a cover letter. Focus on what you can do, not what you can't.
• Copying and pasting a template - Cover letters have a standard structure you need to follow and using a template can often help, especially if you're struggling with what to include. The problem occurs when you copy and paste a cover letter example and only make minimal changes to the document. Templates should only be used as a guide. The only things you should be taking from online examples are inspiration and ideas. Although they can be time consuming, every cover letter needs to be unique.
• Rewriting your CV - This mistake will lead your application straight to the bin. View your cover letter as a sidekick to your CV - they need to work together but they shouldn't repeat each other. Use your cover letter to add context and detail to certain skills and experiences, while keeping in mind the job description and person specification.
• Writing your life story - It's easier to waffle in your cover letter than on your CV but it's important to keep it concise and to the point. To help cut it down, consider every sentence and ask yourself 'do employers need to know this?' and 'is it relevant to the job?'
• Failing to proofread - This oversight can lead to spelling mistakes, grammatical errors and formatting slip-ups. It could give employers the impression that you're careless. Don't proofread your letter straight after writing it, as it can be hard to spot mistakes. Take a break and come back later for a final check before sending.

Find out more

• Learn more about CVs and cover letters .
• Discover how to get a job .
• Read our interview tips .

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Cover Letter Examples

Best Cover Letter Examples

One of the best ways to write a persuasive cover letter is to learn from successful applicants. We break down seven of our favourite cover letter examples and provide a thorough list of job-specific samples to help you create an impressive cover letter.

As featured in: *

The cover letter examples below are written for a variety of situations. Whether you’re a school-leaver or an experienced professional, you’ll find an example with the right cover letter format , design, and writing style for your specific needs.

We’ve also included a thorough list of cover letters by industry so you can see how a successful job applicant should promote themselves in your field.

Standard cover letter example

Most employers will be familiar with this type of cover letter because it follows the same structure as a standard business letter.

There are a few reasons this cover letter would make a strong first impression on employers:

• Addresses a specific person (‘Ms Pastore’) to make the greeting more personal than a generic phrase like ‘Dear Hiring Manager’
• Highlights specific job requirements (agile methodologies and Kanban experience), showing that the applicant understands the employer’s needs
• Mentions a plan to follow up on the application , which demonstrates enthusiasm and gives the employer plenty of time to respond

Cover letter example with no work experience

If you’re applying for your first job or starting over in an entirely new field, your cover letter is a good opportunity to direct attention to training, projects, and skills that make you a good fit for the job.

This cover letter example would stand out for a couple of reasons:

• Focuses on the applicant’s skills and achievements as they don’t have much formal work experience
• Uses a cover letter template that’s eye-catching, setting the applicant’s name and contact information against a bold yet professional letterhead
• Provides specific reasons for wanting to work for the employer in the closing paragraph, emphasising the applicant’s enthusiasm for the role

Graduate cover letter example

If you’re applying for a graduate scheme or entry-level job after uni, use your cover letter to illustrate how your academic journey has prepared you for the role.

Highlighting relevant qualifications, skills, and experience on your graduate cover letter strengthens the information on your graduate CV . There are a couple of instances of the applicant above using this approach in their cover letter:

• Highlights their BA in Professional Administration to demonstrate that they have the right technical knowledge
• Showcases time management skills they developed as a receptionist while completing their degree
• Mentions specific software (Microsoft Office) that is needed to handle the job’s responsibilities

Creative cover letter example

Employers in the arts, social media, and content creation often appreciate uniqueness in a cover letter so long as your writing remains clear and focused on the job.

This memorable cover letter stands out for its engaging writing style:

• Uses confident and enthusiastic language in the opening statement, quickly setting out the applicant’s reasons for applying
• Mentions that they’re a listener of the employer’s podcast , emphasising their enthusiasm for the position
• Highlights key achievements in a bulleted list, so they take up less space and are easy to scan for information

Short cover letter example

Sometimes less is more. If an employer already knows who you are, a detailed self-introduction might not be necessary. Short cover letters can make a strong impression on employers if they’re well-composed and written for the job.

Despite being less than 150 words long, this concise cover letter example hits all the right points:

• Uses zero filler – each sentence is brief and to the point
• Gets to the point by opening with the applicant’s profession, years of experience, and the job they’re applying for
• Addresses key skills in the job description in the following paragraphs

Example cover letter for an internal position

If you’re applying for a new job at the company you currently work for, your internal cover letter should highlight your contributions and demonstrate an understanding of the company’s goals.

This applicant makes a compelling argument for why they should be promoted to Social Media and Content Manager by highlighting contributions that have set them up for greater responsibility.

Here’s what this internal cover letter gets right:

• Mentions specific projects where the applicant’s performance has stood out, using hard numbers to highlight the impact of their work
• Uses enthusiastic language to convey that the applicant cares about the company and is eager to help it succeed
• Emphasises leadership experience to show that the applicant is ready to handle the responsibilities of a more senior role

Example cover letter for a career change

If you’re switching careers, you’ll need to show the employer how your training and experience transfer to the new role.

This career-change cover letter cleverly translates the candidate’s social media experience into relevant qualifications. There are a few other reasons why this job applicant’s argument is compelling:

• Clearly explains the career change by mentioning that the applicant recently retrained as a software engineer
• Specifies relevant technical skills (Python, Java, and C++), which helps them come across as highly qualified and knowledgeable
• Identifies transferable skills they can carry over from their social media career

50+ cover letter examples for specific jobs

Reviewing cover letter examples from your industry will help give you a clearer idea of what employers in your field are looking for.

Below, you’ll find 50+ job-specific cover letter samples covering a broad range of industries and occupations:

Administration & office support

• Administrative assistant cover letter
• Administrator cover letter
• HR cover letter
• Personal assistant cover letter
• Project manager cover letter
• Receptionist cover letter
• Recruiter cover letter
• Recruitment consultant cover letter

Business & professional services

• Accountancy cover letter
• Architecture cover letter
• Assistant accountant cover letter
• Business analyst cover letter
• Consulting cover letter
• Data analyst cover letter
• Finance cover letter
• Goldman Sachs cover letter
• Investment banking cover letter
• JP Morgan cover letter
• Paralegal cover letter

Creative & design

• Designer cover letter
• Graphic designer cover letter
• PR cover letter

Customer support & retail

• Customer service cover letter
• Lidl cover letter
• Primark cover letter
• Retail cover letter
• Team leader cover letter
• Research assistant cover letter
• Teacher cover letter
• Teaching assistant cover letter

Engineering & skilled trades

• Engineering cover letter
• Warehouse operative cover letter

Food & hospitality

• Barista cover letter
• Cleaner cover letter
• Hospitality cover letter
• Waiter/waitress cover letter

Health & social care

• Care assistant cover letter
• Doctor cover letter
• Health care assistant cover letter
• Lab technician cover letter
• Nursing cover letter
• Nursery assistant cover letter
• Personal trainer cover letter
• Support worker cover letter

IT & marketing

• Digital marketing cover letter
• Marketing cover letter
• Product manager cover letter
• Software engineer cover letter

News & media

• Acting cover letter
• Journalism cover letter

FAQs about cover letters

1. how do i start a cover letter.

Start your cover letter by writing a formal greeting:

‘Dear Mr/Ms/Mx [Last Name]’

‘Dear [Full Name]’

Addressing your cover letter to a named person is a good approach because it shows that you’ve put thought into writing something specific to the job opportunity.

If you don’t know the name of the contact person, address your cover letter to the hiring department or call the company and ask who to can address your application to.

And if you’re struggling to phrase the first couple of sentences here are a couple of opening statement examples to help you overcome writer’s block.

2. What should be avoided in a cover letter?

A cover letter is only valuable if it explains in your own words why you should be considered for the job in question. Therefore, you should avoid the following in your cover letter :

• Generic content (only mention relevant skills and achievements)
• Excessive flattery
• Boasting about your achievements
• Making spelling or grammatical errors
• Lengthy explanations

3. How do you build a cover letter for free?

You can build a cover letter for free using our cover letter builder .

Answer a couple of questions about your personal information, skills, and experience, and the builder will generate a professional letter for you on the spot.

When you’re happy with your draft, you can download it for free as a plain text file (.txt) to format in your word processor.

Alternatively, you can download a professionally-formatted PDF or Microsoft Word file for a small subscription fee.

4. Can I use AI tools like ChatGPT to write my cover letter?

Yes, you can use ChatGPT to write your cover letter. It’s possible to quickly draft a cover letter a personalised cover letter by writing a tailored prompt highlighting your skills and experience.

Here’s a template you can use to get ChatGPT to write a basic cover letter for you:

“Please write a cover letter for a [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I have [number] years of experience in [related field or industry]. I found the job listing on [job board or company website]. Highlight my skills in [key skills related to the job], my experience with [specific tools or methodologies], and any relevant achievements such as [specific accomplishments]. Express enthusiasm for the role and mention my eagerness to discuss my application further.”

Remember to check the answer for inaccuracy. ChatGPT sometimes makes up content that doesn’t accurately reflect your experience and skills. You don’t want to lie in your cover letter.

Seb Morgan is a Career Counsellor for CV Genius, where he helps job seekers and professionals get more out of their careers. With over 7 years of experience in business and lifestyle journalism, he's written for a stack of careers-focused publications, including Oxbridge Home Learning, Study International, theHRDirector, and Employee Benefit News, and his expertise includes skill development, interview preparation, and CV and cover letter writing. West Midlands born and raised, Seb has since lived, worked, and studied in 4 countries across 2 continents. He speaks 4 languages and has survived job interviews in 3 of them. He currently also freelances as a travel and culture writer. Reach him at [sebastian] @ [cvgenius.com] or via LinkedIn.

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Have you started looking for a new job, but your cover letter doesn’t feel right? Don’t risk going for a generic one. Learn how to write a cover letter personalised for each job.

A well-written cover letter can be the difference between getting your foot in the door and having your application overlooked . Even those applications that don’t specify they want a cover letter expect you to have one.

So, how do you ensure your application gets considered? By learning how to write a cover letter that perfectly compliments your CV.

Read on, and you’ll find:

• An expert step-by-step guide on how to write a cover letter with simple techniques to make your cover letter the best one in a pile.
• A perfect cover letter sample you can copy, adjust, and use (for experienced and inexperienced job seekers).
• How to use your cover letter to show employers exactly what they want while highlighting your best qualities and skill set.

Save hours of work and get a cover letter like this. Pick a template, fill it in. Quick and easy. Choose from 21 cover letter templates and download your cover letter now.

Create your cover letter now

What users say about ResumeLab:

I had an interview yesterday and the first thing they said on the phone was: “Wow! I love your cover letter.” Patrick I love the variety of templates. Good job guys, keep up the good work! Dylan  My previous cover letter was really weak and I used to spend hours adjusting it in Word. Now, I can introduce any changes within minutes. Absolutely wonderful! George

First, let’s clarify the basics:

What is a Cover Letter

A cover letter is a document that accompanies your CV when you apply for a job. It shows your qualifications and explains your motivation to join the company (hence it’s sometimes called a motivation letter). It also gives the hiring manager an idea of your writing skills and communication style.

Now, see what a finished cover letter looks like:

Cover Letter Example

Jennifer Amato

Customer Service Specialist

89 Westfield Road

Anytown, CA 92301

552-993-0888

[email protected]

linkedin.com/in/jenny-amato

Anytown, 1 November 2022

Mr James Stipe

Head of Product

3015 Round Table Drive

Anytown, CA 90544

Dear James,

When I found the opening for the Senior Customer Service Specialist with ABC Bank, I felt as if it was addressed personally. As a CSR at Acme Corp, I have boosted customer retention by 37% in 9 months and raised the mean NPS from 7.9 to 8.8. I am confident my expertise can translate into similar results for ABC.

I realise that the major upcoming challenge for your Customer Service Team will be to assist other teams in launching the new AI-based platform for Personal Internet Banking. While working at Acme, I planned and supervised online and phone surveys prior to the redesign of our home page. Collaborating with colleagues in a cross-departmental project team of customer service reps, data analysts, and software developers, we designed a consumer-insight-driven product that finally met the varying needs of Acme’s customers.

I love that your Customer Service Team operates with one goal in mind only: to maximise business opportunities by finding and implementing tailor-made solutions for all customers. It perfectly reflects my core professional value: the drive to connect every customer with personalised support at every step of their consumer life journey.

When can we schedule a call to discuss solutions for boosting ABC’s Customer Satisfaction Scores by 20% in the next fiscal year?

P.S.—I would also value the opportunity to tell you how I raised my team’s customer experience phone survey ratings by 48% above the company average.

That’s a killer cover letter example, right?

Think writing an equally good one is gruelling? Nope. It’s super easy. It all boils down to using a good cover letter template that allows you to showcase your strengths, personality, and enthusiasm for the role and demonstrate how you fit the position.

Without further ado, let’s discuss how to write a cover letter:

How to Write a Cover Letter

“ Are cover letters necessary ?” you ask. Cover letters are important to hiring managers, 83% of whom will consider cover letters when hiring. Whether you get the job depends on their decision. 

If that sounds scary, don’t worry. You need only 10 minutes to learn how to write a good cover letter for a job that lands you any gig you set your sights on. Let’s have a look at a cover letter example that makes the recruiter say: “Forget all the others. Let's hire this one!”

1. Start With Creating a Professional Cover Letter Heading

Here’s how to start writing a cover letter properly. Make a cover letter heading that makes it easy for recruiters to contact you. Remember that a cover letter is still a letter and needs to be adequately addressed. 

Before you start writing, create a cover letter heading with:

• Your full name and professional title
• Your contact info , including your email address, phone number, and, optionally, your full address and LinkedIn profile.
• City and date in a separate line are no longer necessary, but it will add a professional touch. Will definitely score you bonus points if your cover letter is addressed to a more conservative company
• The addressee's details , including full name, professional title, and company name and address

Here’s the template:

Cover Letter Header Template

[Your full name]

[Your job title]

[Your address]

[Your phone number]

[Your email]

[LinkedIn profile link] (optional)

[City and current date]

[Hiring manager’s name]

[Hiring manager’s title]

[Company name]

[Company address]

Expert Hint: Your CV and cover letter create a cohesive pair. Double or triple-check if you put the same contact details in both of them.

2. Use a Proper Salutation in Your Cover Letter

The question a lot of candidates ask is: “How to address a cover letter?”

The most important thing is to address your cover letter directly to the hiring manager, who will read it. Use “Dear” followed by:

• Mr/Ms and their last name if eyeing a corporate job or one where you don’t know the culture
• Their first name, but only if you’re applying to a company with a relaxed culture

The first option is universal. If you’re unsure how to write a cover letter greeting, choose option 1.

How to Write a Cover Letter—Salutations Examples

Dear Mr Smith,

Dear Ms Brown,

Dear Recruiter,

Sometimes, it may not be clearly apparent who you’ll be writing to. If that’s the case, don’t fret. There are several simple ways you can try and discover your hiring manager’s identity:

• Check if their name is included in the job listing.
• Try to find the head of your future department on LinkedIn and other networking sites.
• Research the company website.
• Try googling “[Company Name] [Department Name] + manager/team leader/lead”
• Call the company and ask the receptionist who the decision maker is.

But is that hustle beneficial? Even though some of these steps require doing a fair bit of research and they take precious time, it’s a big Yes! Look at this study , for example. It shows that personalised cover letters had an 11.94% higher response rate. That’s a huge percentage increase from just including someone’s name.

In some cases, you may not have your answer. What to do about your cover letter greeting, then? You’ll have to write a more generic salutation akin to “To Whom It May Concern.” However, there are better greetings than that. So, if you don’t have your hiring manager’s name, use:

• “Dear Hiring Manager,”
• “Dear [XYZ Team] Manager,”

It’s so much better than using a “To Whom It May Concern” or “Dear Sir or Madam.”

Expert Hint: If your hiring manager is a woman, and you’re not 100% sure about her marital status, don’t risk being inappropriate by guessing whether it’s “Miss” or “Mrs.” Go with the universal “Ms.”

3. Introduce Yourself and Grab Attention in the First Paragraph

Heading and salutation. Check!. Time for the dreaded part—selling yourself without coming off as preachy or awkward.

Before you get to writing, it’s important to establish a tone of voice to use throughout your cover letter. Fortunately, a study has shown that ingratiation and lower-intensity self-promotion were found to increase perceptions of job and organisation fit .

Our candidate from the cover letter example above, Jennifer, is applying for a Senior Customer Service Specialist position with ABC Bank. Her prospective employer has specific plans to launch a new AI-based, customised platform for personal internet banking. This means they need:

• A person with provable customer service skills and achievements
• Someone experienced in developing customer surveys to analyse insights
• An employee good at collaborating with members from other teams
• A Customer Service Specialist passionate about creating tailor-made customer solutions

In the first paragraph, Jennifer will tackle point number 1. 

How to Write a Cover Letter—First Paragraph Examples

In response to your Senior Customer Service Specialist opening, I’d like to submit my application. With 7+ years of experience in customer service, I know I would be a perfect fit for the position.

You can probably tell that the first paragraph is somewhat similar to a CV Profile . The most prominent difference is that you don’t need to show years of experience. The recruiter will count them on your CV anyway. But the most important part of the CV profile also applies here: “Don’t say who you are. Prove how good your work has been.”

You can also use some tricks to make your first paragraph much more enticing. Demonstrate that you've done your research on the company. Mention something specific about the company that appeals to you or aligns with your values. This shows that you are genuinely interested in the organization.

Or, the best way is to Lead with a strong and relevant qualification or achievement. Mention a specific accomplishment that demonstrates your suitability for the role. This immediately captures the reader's interest.

Double your impact with a matching CV and cover letter combo. Use our cover letter builder and make your application documents pop out.

CREATE YOUR COVER LETTER NOW

Want to try a different look? There’s 18 more. A single click will give your document a total makeover. Pick a cover letter template here .

4. Show the Company That Hiring You is Beneficial

The second paragraph is the longest section of your cover letter. (While we’re at it, the length of a cover letter should never exceed one page.) But why will the middle section of your cover letter be the longest? That’s because you’ll demonstrate why you’re the best possible candidate for the position, which means the company can see value in measurable achievements.

Using our example, Jennifer will need to prove she’s experienced in developing customer surveys and that she’s a team worker. Here’s how she did that:

How to Write a Cover Letter—Second Paragraph Examples

In my career, I’ve performed a wide array of customer service duties. I was responsible for providing excellent quality of assistance to customers via phone, email, and fax, performing general clerical duties, filing, data entry, and billing, as well as recognising and resolving documentation errors.

And Jennifer shows those two points perfectly . 

The second example lacks the vibrancy needed to captivate a hiring manager's attention. Simply stating, "I'm a service representative. I was responsible for this and that," falls flat because it emphasizes duties rather than accomplishments. To stand out, focus on showcasing achievements. 

For entry-level workers, highlight provable skills, certifications, software projects, internships, or voluntary work to demonstrate your value. Review the job description for key skills and phrases to tailor your cover letter to align with the employer's expectations. You’ll notice many things the employer “expects” and “wants” from a candidate. These are your clues. We also have a specialised guide that talks about creating a cover letter with no experience .

Expert Hint: If you want to save or take up space in this paragraph, you can use bullet points to outline how your expertise matches the job offer. The result depends on the number of achievements you have to show.

5. Present Your Motivation and Passion for the Position

A good third paragraph in a cover letter should include a closing that expresses your enthusiasm for the position and your desire for an interview. This is important because it allows you to leave a positive impression on the hiring manager and make it clear that you’re interested in the job and motivated to move forward in the hiring process.

Jennifer presents exactly how to show that enthusiasm in this example:

How to Write a Cover Letter—Third Paragraph Example

Please, find attached my CV with detailed work experience. I’ve always been a fan of your enterprise. It would be a dream come true if I were your employee.

And Jennifer nails it . 

She finishes her cover letter with a great tone of voice while showing her drive. Meanwhile, the second example shows you how not to write a cover letter. It's needy, not flattering, and screams of copy-paste.

As you can see, Jennifer managed to show how exceptionally qualified she is for the position in just three short paragraphs. All it took was to identify what was expected of her and give tangible proof she’s got it all. And this is the answer to the question of how to write a cover letter.

And remember—always seal your cover letter with a KISS: Keep It Short & Simple.

6. Add an Engaging Call to Action to Your Cover Letter

Restaurants will only serve you if you request it. And the same could happen to your job interview. You won’t get it unless you ask for it. It may sound silly, but it works.

Here’s exactly how to nail it:

• Reiterate your offer and directly ask your hiring manager to reach out.
• Imply the importance of scheduling a meeting.

How to Write a Cover Letter—Call to Action Examples

Thank you for your time and consideration, and I’m looking forward to hearing back from you.

And the recruiter put Jennifer on their calendar . 

But the second example is a big no-no. That one’s more like a call to fall asleep over yet another identically phrased cover letter.

And now you’re in the home stretch! One more step remains.

7. End Your Cover Letter With a Professional Formal Closing

Put a formal closing below the contents of your cover letter. Basically, copy and paste your info from the header, and you’re golden. But you can also include a P.S. for some extra oomph. Here’s how:

• A “Sincerely” or “Thank you” synonym
• Your full name
• Basic contact details: phone number, email, LinkedIn profile
• “PS” where you showcase your most impressive achievement (Optional)

How to Write a Cover Letter—Sign-Off Example

And there you have it—a perfect way to end a cover letter for a CV. Just in case you want to work on your cover letter a bit more, here are some additional cover letter tips you can use.

Expert Hint : You can also personally sign your cover letter. Some studies suggest it helps, and those that show no effects. But it definitely adds bonus points to the “cover letter personalisation” category.

And now that you know how to write a cover letter, try any of these guides below:

• Cover Letter for a Recent Graduate
• Cover Letter for Internal Position
• Cover Letter for Relocation
• How to Choose a Career
• How to Explain Employment Gaps
• How to Write an Email Cover Letter
• Remote Work Statistics
• UK CV Layouts
• Updating Your Career Resources
• What is a CV

Or see our list of cover letters for specific positions .

With ResumeLab’s CV builder you’ll write your CV in a flash. Get specific content to boost your chances of getting the job. Add job descriptions, bullet points, and skills. Improve your CV in our CV builder now .

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Nail it all with a splash of colour, choose a clean font, highlight your skills in just a few clicks. You’re the perfect candidate and we’ll prove it. Just pick one of 18 CV templates and get started now .

That was a lot of information to digest, wasn’t it? Time for a recap. Here’s how to write a good cover letter:

• Create a proper heading with your and the addressee's contact details.
• Greet the hiring manager directly.
• Write a three-paragraph main body. Grab attention, make an offer, and explain why you want in.
• Add a clear call to action requesting to schedule an interview.
• End with a professional closing with your sign-off and contact details, optionally followed by a P.S.

Did you learn a lot from our article? Do you need help making your cover letter look better and more professional? Or perhaps you have other questions about writing a cover letter? That’s what the comments section is for. Write them down below, and I’ll respond right away.

Frequently Asked Questions About How to Write a Cover Letter

How to write a cover letter for a job application.

• Create a professional heading .
• Begin with a proper salutation, addressing the hiring manager by name
• State the position you are applying for and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity.
• Outline your key qualifications and skills.
• Explain why you are interested in the company.
• Express your eagerness to discuss how your skills can contribute to the company.

What makes a good cover letter?

A good cover letter is short and straight to the point. It uses an active voice and has a professional tone of voice with low-intensity self-promotion. It also contains zero typos and grammatical errors. Good cover letters are also personalised to every job offer instead of being generic.

How long should a cover letter be?

A cover letter should be concise , ranging from 250 to 400 words, and never exceed one page. An entry-level cover letter can stay within 200 words. Aim to address key points, such as why you are interested in the role and how your skills align with the job requirements.

What are the four parts of a cover letter?

• A cover letter header that includes your contact information.
• An introduction, where you greet your hiring manager and hook them with an impressive accomplishment.
• A cover letter body showing your strengths and motivations, accomplishments, and applicable skills to the position you’re applying for. 
• A cover letter closing with a clear call to action and potentially a Post Scriptum.

What should you not say in a cover letter?

While writing a cover letter, it's important to avoid certain pitfalls that could negatively impact your application. Here are things you should not say in a cover letter:

• Overused phrases
• Business jargon
• Repeats from your resume
• Negative statements about past and current employers
• Salary discussions
• Generic statements
• Excuses and weaknesses
• Over-detailing
• Unprofessional language
• Lack of enthusiasm

And if you want to learn more, here’s an article with great tips on what to include in a cover letter .

How to write a cover letter for an internship?

To write a great cover letter for an internship , follow these rules:

• Show any relevant work achievements you have.
• Present your job skills and completed coursework .
• Show your motivation and how you’ve grown through your abilities and certifications.
• Describe how you can help the company when they choose you for an internship.
• Ensure your cover letter is error-free.

Mariusz is a career expert dedicated to delivering effective advice for jobseekers. With a background in economics, quality control and FinTech, he shares a unique perspective on the best CV and cover letter writing methods.

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Cover letter example to copy & paste

A general cover letter example can serve as a great starting point for your application. 

If you’re feeling stuck, check out this copyable cover letter sample that you can copy and paste to modify for your own experience. You can also change the cover letter template at any time.

Dear Mr. Smith,

I am writing to express my interest in the advertised sales position at Aspen Medical Technology. I am a sales associate with years of experience selling equipment directly to private hospitals. I believe that my skills in making contacts and building relationships in the medical industry would make me an excellent candidate for this position.

Throughout my career so far I have honed a deep understanding of how important impeccable customer service is in the medical industry. I’ve learnt to anticipate the unique challenges that hospitals and hospices face and resolve them. For instance, while working at MedTech Solutions, I proactively identified a solution to streamline our customers’ procurement process when they were considering a medical equipment purchase. This resulted in a 25% reduction in acquisition time for both new and returning customers.

Aspen Medical Technology’s expansion into Scotland came as a pleasant surprise to me. I have successfully cultivated an extensive network across the country. Through my roles at MedTech and In-Visionary Tech I have nurtured relationships with key industry stakeholders, including importers, exporters, and medical professionals. By speaking at renowned medical conferences and implementing strategic initiatives, I led my last team to double market share from 2% to 4% during my time there. I have a deep understanding of the healthcare landscape and enjoy helping my team to influence decisions and drive growth.

I would like to bring my skills in customer service, problem-solving, and relationship-building to your organisation and help increase your sales in the sector. I am confident that my track record speaks for itself, having exceeded annual sales quotas by 45% over the last two years and grown our portfolio of returning customers by 60%.

I hope that you’ll agree I would be an excellent fit for the team. I would be delighted to discuss my candidacy further with you in an interview.

Clara Forbes

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Perfect cover letter structure

The perfect cover letter should have a clear and organized structure to make sure it highlights why you’re the right candidate for the job. 

Here’s what you should include to impress employers and increase your chances of landing the interview:

• Header: The cover letter header is the space at the top, or sometimes the side, of your cover letter that contains your name, contact information, and any relevant links. The header serves a vital role in identifying your cover letter and helping to create an attractive presentation.
• Greeting: The greeting of the cover letter is the way you address the person who will be reading it. We recommend using the hiring manager’s name whenever possible to establish a friendly, yet professional tone.
• Introduction: The introduction consists of the opening lines of your cover letter that serve to grab the hiring manager’s attention and encourage them to read the rest of your cover letter. The introduction should also include the company name and the role for which you are applying.
• Body (middle part): The body paragraphs are the middle part of your cover letter that give you the space and flexibility to discuss your accomplishments and key qualifications for the role.
• Conclusion & sign off: The conclusion is the final sentence of the cover letter that generally includes a call to action. This sentence expresses your enthusiasm for the job and politely encourages the hiring manager to schedule an interview.

What makes a good cover letter example

A good cover letter example contains a combination of factors that work together to present you as the best possible candidate for the role. 

Remember that a cover letter sample is a starting point and should always be customised for your specific experience and the job you are applying to. In general, here are a few things to pay attention to that will make your cover letter stand out from the rest:

• The right template: An attractive cover letter is more likely to be noticed by employers. The best cover letter template is one that combines your own professional personality with the brand and image of the company you’re applying to. Our adaptable cover letter sample can serve as a reference when creating your header.  
• Proper formatting: The right formatting makes your cover letter easier to read, and in turn, keeps the hiring manager interested for longer. Read about great cover letter formatting now. Here are some dos and don’ts.
• Keep a balance of white space to text
• Use paragraph breaks and proper punctuation
• Create an attractive header at the top of the page
• Adjust the margins to cram in more text
• Go overboard with flashy colours unless appropriate in your industry
• Forget to proofread for spelling and grammar mistakes
• A customised greeting: Your cover letter greeting should use the hiring manager’s name whenever possible. If you can’t find the name of a specific person , make sure to customise the greeting for the company or team.
• A professional email address: Your email address should be a combination of your first and last name (with numbers if you have a common name). Unprofessional email addresses are a big mistake.
• Clear structure: Even though a cover letter is one of the more freeform parts of your application, it should still appear organised. Use the sections of our cover letter example above as a model for your own.
• Detailed examples: The writing of your cover letter should give concrete examples of your skills, qualifications, and accomplishments. Make sure to use numbers and statistics whenever possible.

Cover letter examples FAQs

What to write in a cover letter .

Your cover letter is an opportunity to expand on the skills and experiences described in your CV. Instead of simply repeating what’s written there, make sure to add new details and examples that are relevant for the role and will encourage the hiring manager to contact you for an interview. 

How do you start a cover letter?

There are plenty of ways to start a cover letter, including with an anecdote, a statement about your skills or passion, or your connection to the company. Check out our adaptable cover letter samples for more ideas to get you started writing your own cover letter.

What are 3 things you should include in a cover letter?

Three things that should always be included in a cover letter are:  

• Your name and contact information
• The hiring manager’s name
• The name of the company and the role for which you’re applying

How long should a cover letter be?

Ideally, a cover letter's length should be between 250-400 words. A shorter cover letter may not be able to capture your skills, while a longer one may become tiresome to read. A cover letter should always fit on one page. See our adaptable cover letter examples for details.

What are common cover letter phrases?

Every cover letter should be unique, but a few phrases you may find useful are:

• I am excited to apply for the role of (Job Title) at (Company Name).
• I am looking forward to the possibility of an interview.
• Feel free to contact me by phone or email at (Your Phone Number) or (Email Address).
• Sincerely, (Your Name)

What words should not be used in a cover letter?

We recommend avoiding “ To Whom It May Concern ” as it sounds impersonal and outdated. You should also avoid any language that sounds cold, arrogant, or entitled. Our cover letter samples can serve as an example of the right tone to use.

What does an employer look for in a cover letter?

Employers use cover letters to gauge whether you’re truly interested in the position and if you’ve understood the requirements. Make sure to consult the job description before writing your cover letter. Use our cover letter generator to align with best practices.

What is a simple example of a cover letter?

If you’re looking for a simple example of a cover letter , you’ve come to the right place! 

Here are some of our favourite simple cover letter examples:  

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How to write a cover letter.

A cover letter introduces you to an employer and asks them to think about your application. 

It’s a short letter, usually 3 to 5 paragraphs long.

When to include a cover letter

You should always include a cover letter when you apply for a job using a CV. 

You can write it as an email if you’re applying online or print a copy to go with a paper application.

When writing a cover letter, let the employer know you’re keen by showing that you’ve researched the company. Learn more about what they do through:

• their website
• recent news articles
• talking to people you know who work there

Send it to the right person

It's important to try to address your cover letter to someone by name. Check you have the details of the person you need to send it to. 

You'll need their name and preferred title. For example, ‘Dr’, ‘Mr’, ‘Mrs’, ‘Ms’, and their job title. You should also make sure you have the right company name and address, including postcode.

If you do not know their name

If the job advert does not include a name you can check the company website. Try to find details of the head of the department, head of human resources or a recruitment manager.

If you still cannot find a name, you can start your letter with ‘Dear Sir or Madam’.

Introduction

Introduce yourself and explain how you found the advertised job. You can mention the job title, and reference number if there is one. 

If you’re asking about any job openings and not applying to a vacancy, tell them what sort of job you’re looking for. Let the employer see how keen you are to work for them.

Show you're right for the job

Highlight the skills and experience you have that match what the employer is looking for. 

Convince them that you're enthusiastic about working for them. Let them know you share their work values, culture and style.

Give extra information

If you have gaps in your employment history, you could talk about the skills you gained while you were out of work.

If you’ve mentioned on your CV that you have a disability, you might want to talk more about this in your cover letter. Organisations like Disability UK can give you advice on how to do this. You do not have to mention your disability at this stage if you prefer not to.

You can get more help with specialist advice on finding work if you have a disability.

Ending your cover letter

Thank the employer for considering your application. Let them know that they can get more details from your CV, and tell them you're looking forward to hearing from them.

Let them know how they can best contact you. Make sure your contact details are correct on both your cover letter and CV.

Yours sincerely or yours faithfully

If you know the name of the person you’re writing to, you should end the letter with ‘Yours sincerely’.

If you’ve addressed the letter ‘Dear Sir or Madam’, you should end the letter with ‘Yours faithfully’.

Tips for writing a cover letter

When writing your cover letter, remember to:

• write a new one for every job you apply for and make sure it’s tailored to the company and the specific role
• use the same font and size as you do for your CV, so it looks consistent
• make sure the company name and recruiter’s details are correct
• use the right language and tone: keep it professional and match the keywords used by the employer in their job advert
• show you’ve done your research into the job and the company
• highlight your most relevant skills and experience to stand out from other applicants
• back up any statements you make with facts and use the STAR method
• double check spelling and grammar before you send it
• keep a copy of your cover letter as they may ask you about it in an interview

Related content

How to write a CV

Completing application forms

Interview tips

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The 46 Best Cover Letter Examples: What They Got Right

Updated: May 22, 2024

Published: April 19, 2017

I’ve sent plenty of cover letters throughout my career, so I know it isn’t usually fun to write one. Fortunately, the cover letter examples I painstakingly gathered below show that it’s possible to have a little fun with your job search — and maybe even make yourself a better candidate in the process.

I was shocked upon learning 45% of job seekers don’t include a cover letter when applying for a job. I definitely don’t recommend following the crowd on this matter because your cover letter is a chance to tell the stories your resume only outlines.

It’s an opportunity for you to highlight your creativity at the earliest stage of the recruitment process.

Are you ready to showcase your unique skills and experience? Or are you looking for more tips and cover letter inspiration?

Keep reading for 40+ cover letter examples, then check out tips for cover letter formatting and what makes a cover letter great.

Table of Contents

Customizable Cover Letter Examples

Best cover letter examples, short cover letter examples, creative cover letter examples, job cover letter examples, career cover letter examples, what is a good cover letter, what’s on a cover letter, what makes a great cover letter.

5 Free Cover Letter Templates

Five fill-in-the-blank cover letter templates to help you impress recruiters.

• Standard Cover Letter Template
• Entry-Level Cover Letter Template
• Data-Driven Cover Letter Template

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In a hurry for a cover letter example you can download and customize? Check out the ones below from HubSpot’s cover letter template kit .

1. Standard Cover Letter Example

In an increasingly digitized world, where customer-centric strategies are vital for business success, I am thrilled to apply for the [Job Title] position at HubSpot."

Unhelpful Cover Letter Introduction:

"To Whom it May Concern,

I am applying for the [Job Title] position at HubSpot. I have some experience in marketing and can help your clients grow their businesses."

Relevant Professional Experience

It can be tempting to use the same cover letter for every job. After all, it‘s about your experience, isn’t it? But it's not enough to rephrase the work history in your resume.

Recruiters and hiring managers are looking to fill a specific role, so you need to show how your experience translates to their unique needs.

So, the body of a great cover letter should showcase the specific professional experiences that are relevant to the job you're applying for. Emphasize your accomplishments and skills that directly relate to what the job needs.

To speed up this part of the cover letter writing process, start by creating a list of your transferable skills . Drafting this list can help you quickly focus on the skills to highlight in your cover letter.

Then, use AI tools to summarize job descriptions and narrow in on where your experience and the needs of the role you're applying for overlap. This post is full of useful AI assistant tools if you're new to AI.

Helpful Cover Letter Experience:

“At [Company Name], I had the opportunity to assist a global ecommerce retailer in enhancing their online customer experience. By conducting in-depth market research and customer journey mapping, I identified pain points and areas of improvement in their website navigation and user interface.”

Unhelpful Cover Letter Experience:

“I also worked with an ecommerce retailer to improve the customer experience. We did some surveys and training, and they were happy with the results.”

Useful Examples

To make your cover letter stand out, add specific examples that show how you've solved problems or gotten results in past roles.

Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible, using data to give the reader a clear understanding of your impact.

Helpful Cover Letter Example:

“I lead a team of five content writers while increasing website traffic by 18% year-over-year.”

Unhelpful Cover Letter Example:

“I have a great track record of leadership and achieving fantastic results.”

Research and Company Knowledge

Hiring teams aren‘t hiring anyone with the skills to do the job. They’re hiring a person they'll work alongside at their specific company.

So, to show that you‘re not just looking for any job anywhere, share your knowledge of the company’s industry, values, and culture in your cover letter.

Spend some time on the company website and take notes on what makes this business interesting to you and why you would want to work there.

Then, explain how your skills align with the company's mission and goals and explain how you could add to their chances of success. This will showcase your interest in the company and help them see if you are a good cultural fit.

Helpful Cover Letter Research:

“I was particularly drawn to HubSpot not only for its industry-leading solutions but also for its exceptional company culture. HubSpot's commitment to employee development and fostering a collaborative environment is evident in its recognition as a top workplace consistently. I strongly believe that my passion for continuous learning, self-motivation, and dedication to contributing to a team will make me a valuable asset to HubSpot.”

Unhelpful Cover Letter Research:

“I have been inspired by HubSpot's commitment to inbound marketing and its comprehensive suite of solutions. HubSpot's dedication to providing valuable content and fostering meaningful relationships aligns with my own values and aspirations.”

Clear Writing

Your cover letter needs to pack in a lot of important information. But it's also important that your cover letter is clear and concise.

To accomplish this, use professional but easy-to-understand language. Be sure to remove any grammar or spelling errors and avoid lengthy paragraphs and avoid jargon or overly technical language.

You may also want to use bullet points to make your letter easier to skim. Then, proofread your cover letter for clarity or ask a friend to proofread it for you.

• Guide to Becoming a Better Writer
• Tips for Simplifying Your Writing

Helpful Cover Letter Writing:

"In addition to my academic accomplishments, I gained valuable practical experience through internships at respected law firms.

Working alongside experienced attorneys, I assisted in providing legal support to clients. This hands-on experience helped me develop a deep understanding of client needs and enhanced my ability to effectively communicate complex legal concepts in a straightforward manner."

Unhelpful Cover Letter Writing:

"Furthermore, as a complement to my academic accomplishments, I have garnered invaluable practical experience through internships at esteemed law firms.

Throughout these placements, I actively collaborated with seasoned attorneys to conduct due diligence and furnish clients with comprehensive legal support. Notably, these experiences fostered a profound comprehension of client necessities, whilst honing my legal acumen to articulately convey intricate legal principles within a lucid and concise framework, adhering to applicable precedents and statutes of limitations."

Genuine Interest and Enthusiasm

Find ways to convey your passion for the role and how excited you are to contribute to the company you're applying to. At the same time, make sure your interest feels authentic and outline how it aligns with your career goals.

Your ultimate goal is an enthusiastic letter that feels honest and leaves a lasting positive impression.

Showing excitement in writing doesn't come naturally for everyone. A few tips that can help you boost the genuine enthusiasm in your letter:

• Record audio of yourself speaking about the role, then use voice-to-text technology to transcribe and add these sections to your letter.
• Choose your words carefully .
• Write in active voice.

Helpful Cover Letter Tone:

“I am genuinely enthusiastic about the prospect of joining [Company/Organization Name] as an accountant. My combination of technical proficiency, eagerness to learn, and strong attention to detail make me an ideal candidate for this role. I am confident that my dedication, reliability, and passion for accounting will contribute to the continued success of your organization.”

Unhelpful Cover Letter Tone:

“Honestly, I can hardly contain my excitement when it comes to reconciliations, financial statement analysis, and tax regulations! Engaging in spirited discussions with professors and classmates has allowed me to foster an unbreakable bond with the fascinating world of accounting, and I'm positively bursting with enthusiasm at the prospect of applying my skills in a professional setting.”

Memorable Conclusion

End your cover letter on a strong note. Summarize your top qualifications, restate your interest in the position, and express your interest in future communication.

Then, thank your reader for their time and consideration and include your contact information for easy follow-up.

To make your conclusion memorable, think about what parts of your letter you‘d most like the hiring manager to keep top of mind. Then, consider your word choice and phrasing. If you’re feeling stuck, this list of ways to close an email can help.

Helpful Cover Letter Conclusion:

"Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to further discuss how my qualifications align with the needs of Greenpeace. Please feel free to contact me at your convenience to arrange an interview.

Together, let's make a lasting impact on our planet.

[Your Name]"

Unhelpful Cover Letter Conclusion:

"Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my qualifications further and how I can contribute to Greenpeace's mission. Please feel free to contact me at your convenience to arrange an interview.

I’d like to add another stage to the job search: experimentation.

In today’s competitive landscape, it’s so easy to feel defeated, less-than-good-enough, or like giving up your job search.

But don’t let the process become so monotonous. Have fun discovering the qualitative data I’ve discussed here — then, have even more by getting creative with your cover letter composition.

I certainly can’t guarantee that every prospective employer will respond positively — or at all — to even the most unique, compelling cover letter. But the one that’s right for you will.

So, get inspired by these examples and templates. Write an incredible cover letter that shows the hiring team at your dream job exactly who you are.

Editor's note: This post was originally published in October 2020 and has been updated for comprehensiveness. This article was written by a human, but our team uses AI in our editorial process. Check out our full disclosure to learn more about how we use AI.

Don't forget to share this post!

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