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Cover Letter Templates
Click on a cover letter template, fill it online, and download in seconds. Build a professional cover letter in a few clicks . Just pick one of 18+ cover letter templates below, add ready-made content, and get the job.
Professional cover letter template with a column for contact information
Modern cover letter template with delicate icons for contact information.
Creative cover letter template with graphic elements and two columns
Perfect cover letter template with a dash of color and a structured layout
Sleek cover letter template with a light feel and color accents
Classic cover letter template in a one column layout
Two column cover letter template with contact information highlighted on the right
Clean cover letter template with plenty of whitespace and a layout that feels complete
Elegant cover letter template with a single column classic feel
Unique cover letter template with your initials on top and icons on the left
Elegant cover letter template with great readability
Two column cover letter template with a neat structure
Modern cover letter template with a clean-cut layout and two columns
Elegant cover letter template with a top-bottom structure and clean sections.
Elegant cover letter template with appealing typography and flow
Creative cover letter template with initials as the logo and delicate graphic accents
Simple cover letter template that draws attention to your title and personal story
Traditional cover letter template with minimal design, but a finished feel
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot
Need text samples of cover letter templates, free cover letter template to copy and use.
Your Name Your Address Your City, State Zip Code Your Phone Number Your Email Date Hiring Manager’s/Recruiter’s Name Hiring Manager’s/Recruiter’s Title Organization/Company Name Address City, State Zip Code Dear Mr./Ms. [Hiring Manager’s/Recruiter’s Last Name]
When I found the opening for the [Position] with [Organization/Company Name] I felt as if it was addressed to me. In my current position as [Position] at [Organization/Company Name], I’ve improved [achievement] by [%] in [months/years] which resulted in [Number + Result]. I’m sure I can use my expertise to bring similar results for [Organization/Company Name].
In my current position as a [Position] with [Current Organization/Company Name], my key challenge has been [Main Responsibility]. Here are some of my recent results:
- Succeeded at expanding [Achievement] by [%] since [Year].
- Skyrocketed [Achievement] scores by [%].
- Optimized [Achievement], saving the company [$/hours] a [month/quarter/year].
- Led a team of [Number] employees to increase [Organization/Company Name] revenue by [%] in [Number] years.
- My team has scored [Achievement] [Number] months/years in a row
I know that [Organization/Company Name]’s current plans involve [Company’s Plans]. It would be an exciting opportunity for me to use [Your Skill] developing [Company’s Project].
Can we schedule a meeting [Date] to discuss my solutions for boosting [Organization/Company Name]’s [Revenue/Traffic/Customer Satisfaction] by [%] in the next quarter?
Sincerely/Best regards, Your Full Name Your Phone Number Your Email Address Your LinkedIn Account
Best cover letter templates for any situation
A cover letter for a resume or application is a brief presentation of your experience and skills in narrative form. The purpose of a cover letter is to highlight the most important information from your resume and add extra reasons why you should be hired. It’s about looks and contents. And Zety will help with both—
Professional design
These resume cover letter templates match Zety’s resume templates and give your documents a polished look. Highlight key achievements in bullet points, use color and style to draw attention to what matters to employers. Writing a cover letter feels like doing homework assignments, but not with Zety—
Ease of use
Fill in any of these professional cover letter format templates with help from our app. Simply tell the wizard a few things about yourself, and get a ready cover letter sample in a few clicks. Stop worrying about every single word you use and focus on what matters: your future job.
These user-friendly cover letter templates will save you hours of painful work. Remember the last cover letter sample you downloaded and got stuck filling out? This won't happen again. Choose between different sample cover letter layouts, click a few buttons, and you're done. Download your cover letter template in pdf or Word format.
Confidence boost
Don’t ignore your cover letter. About 20-50% recruiters expect you to write one even if they don’t read it . Writing a cover letter from scratch feels like a chore, but it doesn’t have to. You can create a cover letter for a job of your dreams in minutes. Employers will recognize you for who you are: the ideal candidate.
Proven effectiveness
A Zety resume and a cover letter is your one-two punch that will help you beat the competition. Only 20% of all applications contain cover letters and with Zety you’ll stand out as the best candidate. Creating a cover letter can be simple, fast, and is proven to get jobs. It’s surprising how little effort you need.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cover Letter Templates
What is a cover letter for a resume.
A cover letter for a resume is a document attached to your job application that will support your resume, by explaining your motivation and providing more details about the past jobs and skills that are listed on your resume. It is strongly advised to use a cover letter template matching your resume template for an optimal application. Get a professional resume template here , to go with your cover letter. Note that a cover letter for a resume can also work for a CV – here's a selection of professional CV templates (and here's the difference between a resume and a CV ).
What is the best cover letter template in 2023?
All our covering letter templates are equally adapted to modern HR trends and will appeal to recruiters. The best cover letter template is one that will allow you to write your personal details and list your strongest skills, while looking professional and simple . To pick the best cover letter template, focus on what will look perfect based on your industry, experience level, and preferences. Here's more on what a cover letter should look like in 2023.
How to format a cover letter?
While formatting a cover letter is not as complicated as finding the best resume format , you still need to follow the expected cover letter etiquette . Typically, cover letters are formatted with a lot of empty space on the page (double spaces between paragraphs), left-aligned text, and sufficient margins. For more tips, read our guide on how to format a cover letter the right way .
Do I really need a cover letter for a job in 2023?
Although resumes can be sent without a covering letter, every recruiter prefers receiving one, to have more options and details . Cover letters are not always necessary and read , but they are a serious advantage in case other candidates didn't send one.Besides, a professional cover letter shows your motivation, and allows you to say more about your projects and abilities.By sending a cover letter with your resume in 2023, you gain the lead over your competitors.
What to include in my cover letter?
A cover letter is made of several parts . The main ones are the cover letter header and the body . In the cover letter header, list the following information:
- Your phone number
- Your email address
- The name of the hiring manager
In the cover letter body, here's what should be available:
- Cover letter greetings
- Catchy cover letter opening paragraph
- Main strength and skills
- Motivation to join the company
- Closing cover letter paragraph and sign off
Those lists are not exhaustive; you can add more information for a better chance of success, such as your title or a post-scriptum. Read more about all the important things to include in a cover letter here .
How long should a cover letter be?
A cover letter should be one-page long , on a single-page cover letter template, and composed of around 4 paragraphs, along with contact information in the header. 400 words is a good limit, as more could mean no recruiter will read your document, and not enough will not make it seem worth the attempt. Depending on your experience, industry, and circumstances, the amount of information to write can vary. We encourage you to read our post on the ideal cover letter length in 2023 .
Do I need a unique cover letter for every job?
While writing a different cover letter for each job may sound tedious, it is a necessary step to increase your chances of being hired . A cover letter is impactful only when it is not generic, and when it surprises the recruiters with important and interesting details about you and your reasons to apply. Each cover letter must therefore be unique . However, you can save precious time by using our online cover letter builder , which allows you to duplicate, modify, save, and download your cover letters with just a few clicks. Besides, it offers pre-written content that you can use to write different application letters in no time.
Should I use a PDF or a Word cover letter template?
Just like your resume should be sent in PDF format , it is best to download your cover letter in PDF, too. The PDF format allows your cover letter layout to remain unchanged, whatever the device used by recruiters. Our cover letter templates all match our resume templates, and can be exported in Docx (Word), for you to modify them later, or in PDF for you to send them immediately.
Can I email my cover letter instead of sending a cover letter template?
For job offers that don't request a cover letter, and when you don't have time to write one, you can write a short cover letter directly in your email's body .Before choosing that option, we'd like to point out that our online cover letter application can generate a cover letter template with pre-written content for you, making the process faster and easier. If you still prefer to send a letter in text form rather than a cover letter template, here are all our tips on how to email a cover letter successfully.
Do you have cover letter examples for my template?
Our cover letter templates can be filled online using pre-written content. You'll only have to input your job title and generate content quickly and conveniently.Adapt what matters, and copy the rest to save time and speed up your job hunt.To help you adapt your cover letter and make it perfectly targeted, we have written hundreds of cover letter examples that you can find here .
How to make a cover letter with no experience?
A cover letter template can seem hard to fill with useful information when your resume itself is quite light on job experience and hard skills . But it is in those cases that your cover letter is even more important. Entry-level candidates can't rely on experience, and must therefore make the most of their soft skills , projects and original ideas. To start with, we encourage you to make a resume with no experience , and then write an entry-level cover letter that will complement it.
Are Zety cover letter templates free?
All our cover letter templates are free-to-use, and entirely customizable online. You don't have to pay to create as many cover letters as you want, until you are satisfied with the result.Zety follows the 'try before you buy' rule, and will never ask you for payment until you are 100% certain your cover letter template is pixel-perfect and ready to be sent to employers.
Try Zety's professional cover letter builder now
Cover Letter Templates
Start your career on the right track with a professional cover letter template. Our templates are formatted to follow industry standards, are ATS-friendly and easy to customize. Choose an expertly designed free cover letter template or use our Cover Letter Builder to write a cover letter for your resume.
- Cover Letter
Curriculum vitae, or CV, stands for “course of life.” In the U.S., a CV is a multi-page professional document that extensively details your education and experience. In other parts of the world, a CV is a standard, position-specific document (similar to a resume in the U.S.) that is between one and two pages long.
Charismatic
This professional cover letter template features a dual-tone heading to make your name stand out.
This resume cover letter template will help you tell your story with a modern font and unique design.
Try this cover letter template for a straightforward and impressive letter.
A strong font makes this cover sheet template ideal for modern architecture, technology and advertising jobs.
No matter your industry, this creative job cover letter template can help bring out your creative side.
Present your qualifications front and center with this professional cover letter template.
Catch the recruiter’s attention with this crisp template, which features your name and information aligned to the left.
This best-in-class cover letter template will speak volumes about your professionalism.
Distinguished
This straightforward template places your name front and center.
This elegant design of this sample cover letter template commands attention.
Make a bold statement with this modern cover letter template, which offers customizable colors and fonts.
Grab the recruiter’s attention with the pops of color and fun icons this layout features. It’s the best cover letter template for creative jobs.
Change the colors and font type of this template to fit your needs.
Make a subtle statement by choosing a resume cover letter template like this one that colorfully highlights your contact information.
Professional
This sophisticated layout of this application letter template tells employers you mean business.
A monogram graphic in the header gives this cover sheet template a unique look.
View all templates
Customer Reviews
Why a free cover letter template is perfect for you, we handle cover letter formatting for you.
Our templates follow standard cover letter format rules, ensuring that you use the correct line and margin spacing and proper fonts.
Professional cover letter template designs
From modern cover letter templates to creative and professional styles, our experts have designed our templates to get you noticed.
Easy to customize templates
We make it easy to customize your cover letter template from color palette to font size to match your goals.
We’ll help you write your cover letter
Download a free cover letter template and edit it to fit your needs, or use our Cover Letter Builder to guide you through each step of creating your document in minutes.
Modern free cover letter templates
These free cover letter templates are great for jobs in industries such as technology or business, where looking sharp and staying on top of the latest trends matters.
Bold cover letter template
If you want to convey that you’re a professional who is not afraid to take risks, this is the best template for you.
Blueprint cover letter template
Stand out with this colorful cover letter template free of charge. Its two-column layout neatly displays your qualifications, making them easy to read.
Charismatic cover letter template
This free cover letter template download injects some personality into your career story. Notice how two colors make the job applicant’s name pop.
Professional free cover letter templates
You can’t go wrong with the classic style of a formal cover letter template. Download one free of charge and show hiring managers you mean business.
Professional cover letter template
Simple yet effective, this template shows that basic doesn’t have to mean boring.
Deluxe cover letter template
This free resume cover letter template gives you all the room you need to present your accomplishments.
Executive cover letter template
This is a good cover letter template for anyone who wants to get straight to the point.
Creative free cover letter templates
Creative jobs require imaginative designs. Use these layouts when you want to visually show your personality and make a statement, especially if you’re applying for a job in a creative industry. Download a creative resume cover letter template free of charge and show employers your creative side.
Original cover letter template
This free cover letter template combines icons, pops of color and a fun approach.
Standout cover letter template
A minimalistic design detail next to your name makes this template unforgettable.
Centered cover letter template
Sleek fonts and bold colors make this free cover letter template download perfect for creative job seekers.
Simple and basic free cover letter templates
A clean cover letter template is the best way to communicate your information and experience. Try a simple or basic cover letter free of charge.
Distinguished cover letter template
This simple cover letter template has an elegant, understated style with classic fonts and dotted dividing lines.
Contempo cover letter template
Keep it classy with a basic cover letter template that never goes out of style.
Whitespace cover letter template
Give your letter a chic and intelligent approach with a free cover letter template that perfectly spaces your information and boldly states your name.
Cover letter templates for top jobs
Use our cover letter examples for guidance and inspiration. We have plenty of examples created by experts for different jobs and scenarios that use the cover letter templates featured on this page.
Let the employer know you’re a great teacher with this unique teaching job cover letter template, which features a bold header.
Administrative assistant
This professional cover letter template will tell the recruiter more about your excellent time management and organizational skills.
Software engineer
You can talk the talk about software and computers, and with this application letter template, you will also walk the walk.
Medical assistant
This clean and straightforward template for a cover letter presents your reliability and enthusiasm for your career.
Web developer
This sleek and elegant cover sheet template perfectly shows how much you know about creating and maintaining websites.
You know your way around different languages, and this fun and original sample cover letter template is the ideal place to show it.
Flight attendant
Possessing excellent interpersonal skills and diplomacy are some of the skills required for this job, so go with a cover letter template that can effectively tell your story.
A no-nonsense job requires a simple and easy-to-read template for a cover letter, and this one hits the mark.
Cover letters templates and examples for unique scenarios
Cover letters are beneficial for many scenarios, and when written correctly, do more than just explain your skills. Our in-depth How to Write a Cover Letter guide teaches you everything you need to know about writing this important document. We have a cover letter format template for every unique situation. Try a cover letter Word template or a cover letter Pages template to customize your document easily.
Entry-level cover letter example template
When you don’t have a lot or any work experience, a cover letter is crucial to properly market yourself as an excellent addition to the team.
Career-change cover letter template and example
When you’re changing careers, you want a standard cover letter template that shows your transferable skills, draws a bridge between your experience and the new job, and explains why you want to work with that company specifically. Just use the content in this cover letter template as inspiration.
Employment gap cover letter example template
When it comes to employment gaps, you only have to address the gaps you feel comfortable discussing in your cover letter. Did you start your own business or explore artistic projects? Connect these experiences to the potential job as this sample cover letter template does.
Unadvertised position cover letter template and example
Don’t see a job posting? No problem! Explain how you heard about the job and why you want to join the team in your resume cover letter template.
“Cold-call” cover letter template and example
You came across a company you like but aren’t sure if they’re hiring. Get on their radar with a cold call cover letter that introduces who you are and your skills that could be valuable to the company, as this application letter template does.
Temporary-to-permanent employee cover letter example template
You like where you work and want to stay there permanently. Use a cover letter template to explain why it’s in the company’s best interest to keep you around.
Seeking promotion cover letter template and example
You’re ready to take the next step in your career and grow within the company. Recap your experience using a professional cover letter template and convince the employer you’re more than qualified for the new job.
Applying for a different position with the same company cover letter template
Do you meet the requirements of a new position in your company? Take the leap and use a template for a cover letter to explain why you’re perfect for the role.
How to use a cover letter template
Choose a cover letter template that highlights your unique qualities.
A cover letter is an extension of your resume. It’s your chance to present yourself to the employer properly and explain why your skills and experience suit the job. Your cover letter design template should answer four significant points:
- Why you want the job
- How you’re prepared to handle the daily requirements of the job
- How you can fit in and adapt to the company’s culture
- How you can help the company move forward
Show your passion and interest in the company.
Use our professional cover letter templates to explain what inspires you about your potential employer. It could be the company’s mission, a new initiative it’s undertaking, or how you can contribute to company goals over the long term. Show the hiring manager you’ve already invested time researching your potential employer, and they’ll be more likely to invest in you.
Match your skills and experiences to the job’s requirements with a suitable cover letter template.
Respond directly to duties and skills listed in the job description, and show your capabilities in those areas through concrete examples from your own experience and training. You can also point out a challenge the company is currently facing and how you can help solve it, similar to what our cover letter templates showcase.
Encourage the hiring manager to learn more about you.
Your cover letter should give hiring managers an incentive to read your resume and follow up for an interview. Be forthright. Recommend that the reader examine your resume for more details on your relevant skills and accomplishments. Conclude by expressing your readiness to meet and discuss how you can contribute. If you’re unsure how to do this, you can review our expertly written application letter templates and examples.
Avoid repeating information from your resume.
While your resume and cover letter template must be similar, they shouldn’t reiterate the same information. Review your resume and note what you want to explain further in your cover letter; it could be a set of skills, a work achievement relevant to the job you’re applying for, or a project that you know will help you stand out. A free downloadable cover letter template from this page will help you tell your story so that you get noticed.
Tailor your cover letter template to the job.
Whether a resume or cover letter, tailoring your document to the job is critical. This includes using keywords from the job description in your writing, using a tone of voice that reflects the company culture and addressing the letter to the hiring manager and not “To whom it may concern.” A cover letter Word template or Apple Pages cover letter template is easy to customize.
Match your resume and cover letter template
A cover letter and resume template match is crucial for a polished job application. After all, cover letters and resumes are strong when they both read and look their best. Luckily for you, we have all the tools and guides you need to build the perfect resume for your cover letter.
- How to Write a Resume : Follow our in-depth guide to learn how to write a strong resume that effectively captures your skills and qualifications.
- Resume Examples : We have an extensive library of resume examples for all types of jobs and industries.
- Resume Templates : From creative to modern and professional, our resume templates are designed by the same experts that create our cover letter templates, are ATS-friendly and easy to customize.
- Resume Builder : With step-by-step guidance and expert phrases, a cv cover letter template combined with our Resume Builder makes it easy to create a resume in minutes.
Cover letter template FAQ
What is a cover letter.
A cover letter is a one-page document you submit alongside your resume or CV . Its purpose is to support the content of your resume by expanding on those achievements, showing your personality and explaining why you’d be a great asset to the company. Even though a cover letter has a supporting role in the application process, it’s no less critical and could potentially decide whether you get hired.
Are cover letters necessary?
Yes. A recent survey found that 83% of hiring managers, recruiters and HR staff consider cover letters essential to the decision-making process. We always recommend writing a cover letter because:
- It allows you to provide information that isn’t in your resume.
- It gives hiring managers and recruiters a glimpse into your personality.
- It has the space you need to market yourself as the best candidate.
Choose a cover letter layout template from this page to increase your chances of getting the job!
How do you write a strong cover letter?
With some dedication, you can write a cover letter for your resume in just 15 minutes — and we’re here to help you.
A successful cover letter should fulfill two aims: It should be formatted neatly for easy reading, and the content should catch hiring managers’ attention. To achieve the first goal, use a cover letter sample template as a model, and keep your letter to the point and one-page long.
To ensure your content fits the bill, consult the job description and pinpoint essential keywords that you should mention in your letter. For example, if you’re applying to a customer service position that stresses knowledge of customer relations management (CRM) systems, mention your experience with CRM in your cover letter. Doing so will also help your letter pass automated applicant tracking systems (ATS), which many employers use to scan cover letters for the right keywords.
Finally, your cover letter should answer the most critical question: Why are you interested in the job and the company? Explain why you think you can succeed in the position and believe you’re a good fit. Employers will be impressed by a cover letter that shows you’ve done your homework and thought about how you can contribute. Download a free professional cover letter template and get started today!
What do employers look for in a cover letter?
A cover letter is a blank canvas where you can formally introduce yourself to the hiring manager — think of it as your sales pitch. Generally speaking, the hiring manager wants to know more about your skills and background, why you want to work for them and how you will help them. Still, this approach may differ depending on your professional experience.
For example, hiring managers will want to know why you have a career gap in your resume if you have one. If you ventured into running a small business or were affected by COVID-19, you’d want to explain what happened and show how your past experiences will help you fill this new role, as our cover letter templates and examples show.
Is it OK to use a cover letter builder?
It’s not just OK to use a cover letter builder but encouraged! Our Cover Letter Builder makes the writing process a breeze by providing over 15 cover letter templates, expert suggestions, step-by-step guidance and customization tools to create and save as many versions of your cover letter as you want. It’s the easiest way to put together a professional cover letter for your resume, and all you have to do to get started is choose the downloadable cover letter template that best works for you.
How long should a cover letter be?
A cover letter should be one page long. The recruiter or hiring manager won’t spend that much time reviewing your application, so your writing must be concise and straightforward. A work cover letter template from this page can help you keep your cover letter organized on one page.
How do you start a cover letter if you don’t know the name?
If you don’t know who to address your cover letter to, here are some options to try:
- Address the cover letter to the department you’re interested in joining. For example, “Dear Creative Department,” “Dear Accounting Department,” or “Dear [Company] Team.”
- If you have the hiring manager’s name but are unsure whether to use titles like Mr., Mrs., or Ms., you can leave it out and use their full name. For example, “Dear John Smith” or “Dear Helena Law.”
Avoid starting your cover letter with greetings such as “To whom it may concern” or “Dear sir or madam” — it’s old-fashioned. A cover letter template sample from this page can point you in the right direction.
Kellie Hanna
Content strategist, career advice expert.
Kellie is the content strategist for My Perfect Resume. She has more than 20 years of experience in digital media and is passionate about helping job seekers navigate their careers. She has a B.A. in English and writing from Temple University.
More cover letter help
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No work experience? No problem! Volunteer work can give you the skills and knowledge you need to stand out from the crowd of job applicants.
Get Hired Fast: Best Cover Letter Writing Tips of 2022
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Now that you have picked a template, our cover letter builder is a quick and easy way to complete your cover letter!
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- Cover Letter Templates
Need a cover letter template? Download any of our 200+ free cover letter templates for Word, then fill out a copy-paste cover letter template to pair with your resume and complete your job application.
Free Basic Cover Letter Templates
Write a clear and organized cover letter using a simple cover letter template. Each basic template is free to download (compatible with Microsoft Word), and will help you create the perfect cover letter for whatever job you apply for.
"The Classic" cover letter template is clean, traditional, and the perfect format to start off your application.
Inspired by the architecture of its namesake city, the "Chicago" cover letter template is bold and professional.
The "Connery" cover letter template exudes confidence with its bold name bar. Employers are sure to remember your application long after you submit it if you use this template.
Graceful and powerful, our "White House" template carries itself with gravitas, and is perfect for job seekers applying for government-related work.
Free Professional Cover Letter Templates
A professional cover letter template suits experienced candidates applying to large companies. If you’re an executive or seeking a senior position, use one of these templates to write a confident and authoritative cover letter.
Our "Minimalist" cover letter template embraces simplicity while still retaining enough details to capture any hiring manager's attention.
Featuring strong colors and a bold header, our "Everest" cover letter template is guaranteed to help you make a positive first impression on employers.
Simple yet stylish, our "Cosmopolitan" cover letter template will help you get noticed while showing employers that you're serious about the role.
Clean, sleek, and professional, the "Premium" cover letter template is a great choice for job seekers in creative industries.
Free Creative Cover Letter Templates
Our creative cover letters perfectly balance professionalism and personality. Use one of these unique cover letter templates if you’re applying for work in a creative field like design or marketing.
The "Notre Dame" template uses brick-shaped rectangles in its header, placing rock-solid emphasis on your name and contact details.
Featuring a bold sidebar and modern font, the "Cool" cover letter template gives your application a sleek, confident look.
Clear and readable, the "Westminster" creative cover letter template is perfect for job seekers who appreciate a minimalist aesthetic.
Eye-catching and clean, the "Visual" template is designed to make your cover letter stand out.
Free Modern Cover Letter Templates
Pair a modern cover letter template with your resume to show some personality in your job application. This style of cover letter template is ideal for job seekers applying to work in tech, at startups, or in industries like marketing and design.
Designed to help candidates meet the challenges of the modern job market, our "2023" cover letter template is perfect for people in any industry.
If you want to move your career forward, the "Advanced" cover letter template is for you.
Polished and confident, the "Clean" cover letter template lives up to its name, with simple formatting and an easy-to-read sans-serif font.
Our "Hybrid" cover letter template combines formal formatting with colorful accents — effectively showcasing your personality and professionalism at the same time.
Free Picture Cover Letter Templates
These picture cover letter templates are ideal if you’re applying for jobs in a country where you’re expected to include a photo with your job application. Each template is designed to look sleek and quickly grab the attention of employers.
Free CV Cover Letter Templates
Looking for a cover letter to pair with your CV? Whether you’re applying to an academic position or a research job, our CV cover letter templates are designed to give your application a refined, professional appearance.
If you write in any professional capacity, your cover letter is often as important as your CV. Let our "Writer" template highlight your writing proficiency and style.
While the research on your CV makes the strongest case for your hireability, our "Research" cover letter template acts as an effective accompaniment and introduction to prospective employers.
With a name that evokes prestige, our "Harvard" CV cover letter template is the perfect design to pair with your impressive and thorough curriculum vitae.
Whether you just received your diploma or are a veteran job seeker, our "Graduate" cover letter template can help you pitch your qualifications to employers in an aesthetically pleasing way.
Google Docs Cover Letter Templates
Need a cover letter to pair with your Google Docs resume template ? These sleek, contemporary cover letter templates will help elevate your job application without ever needing to download expensive word processing software.
Cover Letter Templates by Job
Need a fully written cover letter template for your specific job or industry? Here are some of our most popular cover letter examples . Simply download and customize them to fit your own experience.
Cover Letter Templates for Career & Life Situations
Whether you’ve just graduated college or are applying for a promotion, these free situational cover letter templates will help you put together the perfect application.
How to Use a Cover Letter Template
You should use a cover letter template to create a professional application that follows the proper cover letter format . You can also use a template to quickly create multiple cover letters for different jobs.
Using a template is an easy way to include everything employers look for, but you should still make sure your cover letter is written in your voice.
How to Write a Cover Letter (Template)
Knowing how to write a cover letter involves understanding a cover letter’s structure. Follow the sample cover letter template below to easily write your own letter.
[Your Name] [Street Address] [City and Zip Code] [Your Phone Number]
[Today’s Date]
[Addressee’s/Hiring Manager’s Name] [Job Title] [Organization/Company Name] [Street Address] [City and Zip Code]
Dear [Name],
Opening paragraph: State who you are, say where you found the job listing, and explain why you’re interested in the position.
Body paragraphs: Give an overview of your previous job experience, skills, qualifications, and accomplishments. Don’t repeat your resume. Explain what makes you a unique candidate and how you can help the company meet its goals. Use numbers to back up your claims.
Closing paragraph: State that you’d like to schedule an interview and provide your contact information. Say you’ll be in touch within a week if you don’t hear back. Finish by thanking the employer for their time and consideration.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
Make sure you include all the sections in your cover letter sample and write detailed body paragraphs about your expertise. Hiring managers often read your cover letter before your resume, so it’s important to sell yourself and your skills.
Which cover letter template should you use?
You should use a cover letter template that matches your job and experience level. A modern template suits creative roles, but a professional template is best for experienced candidates.
If you’re not sure which is the best cover letter template for you, a basic or simple template is a good choice for any application.
Need a cover letter template for a specific job? View our cover letter examples to find a cover letter written for your industry.
Free Fill-in-the-Blank Cover Letter Templates
Choose a free cover letter template below that best fits your experience and industry. Then copy and paste the template into Microsoft Word and fill in your information to create a personalized cover letter.
- General Cover Letter Template
- Creative Cover Letter Template
- Entry Level (No Work Experience) Cover Letter Template
- Experienced Professional Cover Letter Template
You can also save these example cover letter templates in Google Drive as Google Docs cover letter templates , or send them by email.
1. General Cover Letter Template
Looking for a standard cover letter that works for any job application? Our general cover letter template follows the traditional cover letter format , but won’t sound generic to employers.
Copy the free sample below into Microsoft Word, and fill in the blanks with your skills and experience. This cover letter template has helped thousands of job seekers land employment across every industry.
Download This Free Template
2. Creative Cover Letter Template
Our creative cover letter template has a casual tone and focuses on your enthusiasm and achievements. If you’re applying at a forward-looking company, a modern letter like this shows you’re a good cultural fit.
This free template is easy to personalize in Word or Google Docs, and has lots of room for you to showcase your originality and voice.
3. Entry Level (No Work Experience) Cover Letter Template
When writing your first cover letter, focus on the skills you gained through your education, volunteer work, and hobbies.
Our entry level cover letter template helps you explain why you’re a top candidate, even if you have no work experience. Simply paste it into Word and customize.
4. Experienced Professional Cover Letter Template
Need an application letter for a senior position? Our professional cover letter template offers a clear format for presenting your skillset and accomplishments.
If you’re established in your field or applying for a promotion, customizing this professional template in Word will help you create a cover letter that makes a powerful impression.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cover Letters
What should a cover letter include.
A cover letter should include four essential parts:
- A personalized greeting
- An eye-catching cover letter introduction
- Convincing body content about your expertise
- A powerful cover letter closing and sign off
What should not be included in a cover letter?
You should not include any false information in a cover letter, or information already included in your resume. It’s also important to avoid the following common mistakes:
- Spelling and grammar errors
- Addressing your cover letter to the wrong person
- Negative comments about previous employers
- Your salary expectations
- Personal details unrelated to the job
Do I need a unique cover letter for every job?
Yes, you need a unique cover letter for every job you apply to.
Each company has different challenges they’re trying to tackle through hiring. By writing a new cover letter draft for every job, you can explain why you’re uniquely qualified to help resolve each company’s issues.
How long should my cover letter be?
Your cover letter should be between half a page and one full page in length, or about 200 to 500 words. This is the standard cover letter length because it’s concise, and keeps the hiring manager’s attention.
Remember: it’s always better to send a short cover letter than write several long-winded pages.
Do I really need a cover letter?
Yes, you need a cover letter if:
- The job you’re applying to requires one
- You’ve been recommended for the job
- You want to provide information that isn’t included in your resume
Should my resume and cover letter template match?
Your resume template and cover letter template should match to make your job application consistent and professional.
Using different resume and cover letter templates may affect your chances of getting an interview. Mismatched documents suggest you lack attention to detail, or didn’t put much effort into your job application.
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Land the job with resume and cover letter templates
Win over hiring managers by putting your best qualities on display with professional, customizable resumes and cover letters. no matter your line of work or length of professional history, you'll find resume and cover letter templates that'll help you get the gig..
Show off your accomplishments with creative templates
Land your dream job with free, customizable resume and cover letter templates. Give recruiters a taste of your potential and stand out from other candidates with a professional template. Cover letters provide an effective opportunity to show your personality and enthusiasm for a position. Focus on writing a compelling cover letter and let a professionally designed template do the rest. Stick to a sleek design when applying to corporate positions or show your creativity with bold colors . Resumes don't need to look boring—add flair to your professional experience with a creative resume template. Impress potential employers with compelling resume designs without spending hours creating a layout. Once you choose your favorite template, you'll be able to personalize each design element, like font styles , and add your own text. Using a template also makes it easier to customize your resume for each position you apply to. Print out as many copies as you'd like or download the template to share digitally when applying online. Remember, your next job is only a template away!
Premium cover letter templates
Our premium templates are a great way to get an employer’s attention. Simply select a design that best matches your career and style and fill out the details in our Cover Letter Builder .
Free cover letter templates
Our extensive library of free cover letter templates are professionally designed and recruiter-approved. No matter the industry, job title or experience level, we’ve got a cover letter template that will make employers excited to hire you.
These versatile templates' clean and straightforward layout works for almost any industry and job title.
Our Unique template designs are the top choice for job candidates who want to stand out in the fitness, cosmetology, entertainment and social media industries.
Technology, architecture and real estate applicants often lean toward these sleek and sophisticated layouts.
Whether you’re a nanny, bank teller, receptionist or legal aid, our Classic cover letter designs can help you stand out from the competition.
Our eye-catching Creative cover letter designs are an excellent way for artists, designers, photographers, filmmakers and musicians to showcase their talents.
Professional
These clean and professional layouts work well for social workers, financial analysts, librarians, medical assistants and many other occupations.
Job seekers in diverse industries — from transportation and construction to health care and food service — agree that our Simple templates are as colorful as they are professional.
Basic isn’t boring, especially when it comes to our Basic templates. These no-nonsense layouts work well for engineers, project managers, teachers and more.
Microsoft Word
Our cover letter templates for Word are elegantly designed and capable of passing ATS software requirements.
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Cover letter templates for every type of job.
Looking for sample text for a specific job? Find cover letter examples for all major industries in our vast library. If instead, you’re ready to work on your resume immediately, browse our library of resume templates or explore your options in our Resume Builder .
Why use our cover letter templates
Resume Now’s cover letter templates are among the most elegantly designed you’ll find online. Here are a few of the reasons job seekers like using templates:
Templates save time and reduce stress.
The best reason to use a cover letter template is to reduce the stress of building your application letter from scratch. If you already have a stunning design, you can focus on the writing — such as highlighting your career achievements and showing passion for the company.
The formatting and fonts are industry-approved.
Formatting a cover letter can be a pain. Using a template will help you avoid common mistakes like picking a font that can’t be read by an applicant tracking system (ATS). Rest easy knowing the font size, line spacing and margin width are industry standard.
Employers will see you’re serious about the job.
Put yourself in a hiring manager’s shoes. Would you prefer the candidate who submits a sharp, attractive cover letter or a candidate who turns in a generic letter that hasn’t been formatted correctly? Templates make a good first impression and improve your chances of getting a callback.
The same style can be applied to a resume.
Your resume and cover letter designs don’t have to be identical, but they should look similar. Using the same templates for each will ensure consistency of layout, which will give you a leg up on the job application. We have resume templates to match every cover letter design we offer.
4 tips for using a professional cover letter template
Cover letter templates make your cover letter pretty so you don’t have to fret about the design. Nonetheless, you can use a template more effectively by keeping the following advice in mind:
Pick the best cover letter template based on your industry and job title.
For example, hiring managers in the financial, legal and medical sectors usually prefer a conventional resume style. However, a web design associate applying for a job at a new creative agency might choose a Unique or Creative resume template for distinctive flair.
Decide what information to use and leave out.
Most templates include prewritten content. Some of the content will apply to your career situation, while other sections won’t. We recommend keeping any language that comes closest to describing your situation. But, make sure to rewrite sentences to avoid plagiarism and give the cover letter more specificity. Our guide on how to write a cover letter can help.
Find the best words to express yourself confidently.
As you write your cover letter, revisit the job posting. Choose words from the description that closely match your goals and experience. Addressing the duties and skills listed in the job description and giving real examples of your qualifications demonstrates you are qualified for the job. If you struggle to find the words, a cover letter builder can help by offering suggested text tailored to the job.
Make sure your resume and cover letter match.
To create a polished application and stand out from the competition, you must closely match your cover letter style to your resume. Both documents should use the same colors, formatting and header content. Job seekers who align their applications will seem more organized than other applicants.
Why do we write cover letters?
We write cover letters to expand on our resumes and provide details about our backgrounds that we can’t include in a resume. Plus, cover letters allow us to create a strong narrative around why we are the best choice for the position. When we learn how to write a good cover letter, we significantly increase our chances of landing an interview.
How do I write a cover letter if I’m underqualified for the job?
If you are underqualified for the job you’re applying for, then focus on your transferable skills and enthusiasm for the job. After all, the strongest letters don’t simply list qualifications; They paint a picture of a passionate applicant who will bring value to the team.
How do I write a good cover letter for my first job?
Applying for your first job can feel nerve-wracking. Fortunately, you don’t always need much experience to get hired; passion and determination can go a long way. You can also play up your skill set, class projects and testimonials to build a compelling case for yourself. Show your relevant experience, even if it isn’t from previous jobs.
Where can I make a cover letter?
The best place to create a cover letter is on our Cover Letter Builder. Use the powerful editor, prewritten suggestions and beautiful, professional templates to make an cover letter instantly.
More cover letter resources
Bad Cover Letter Examples: How To Fix Those Annoying Mistakes
When To Use Bullet Points In A Cover Letter
How to Write the Body of a Cover Letter
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21+ Cover Letter Examples in 2023 [For All Professions]
No matter where you are in your career, or what job you’re applying for, submitting a cover letter with your resume is a must .
Done right, a cover letter will effectively complement your resume and explain to the hiring manager in more detail why you’re the right person for the job.
Writing a cover letter, however, is easier said than done.
You have to effectively demonstrate that you’ll be able to perform the responsibilities listed in the job description and that you’d be a better fit for the company compared to other candidates.
And unless you’re a professional writer, this can be a very hard task.
Fortunately, we created these cover letter examples to inspire you and help you get started with your own cover letter!
Let’s dive in!
21 Cover Letter Examples
#1. career change cover letter example .
Here’s what this cover letter does right:
- Has an ideal length. This cover letter includes all the relevant information for the hiring manager without getting into too much detail.
- Relevant introduction. The candidate explains that they’re changing careers and why they want to work in this new field from the get-go.
- Explains their related experience. The candidate explains how their previous experience in retail sales can help them succeed in PR.
Want to learn how to write a career change resume that’s on par with your cover letter? Check out our guide!
#2. Recent Graduate Cover Letter Example
- Personally greets the hiring manager. The candidate has taken the time to find the hiring manager’s name and address them by it, which makes the opening of the cover letter much more personal.
- Wraps up with a call to action. The candidate wraps up the cover letter by suggesting a meeting with the hiring manager, which makes them more memorable.
- Explains why the candidate is the right person for the internship. In this cover letter for an internship , the candidate explains how they’ve previously interned in a different firm, which gives them the experience to succeed in this role.
Have you just graduated from college? Make sure to check out our guide on writing an entry-level cover letter from start to finish!
#3. Middle Management Cover Letter Example
- Use of bullet points. The candidate presents the information in a concise and reader-friendly way, making it easy for the hiring manager to find their key achievements.
- Formal closing. The candidate has used a formal and polite tone to conclude their cover letter, which combined with a call to action makes them look professional and passionate about getting the job.
- Explains how the company would benefit from hiring them. The candidate outlines exactly what they could do for the company, which not only highlights their skills but also shows they’ve done their research on the company’s needs.
#4. Business Manager Cover Letter Example
- Detailed header. In addition to the must-have contact details, this candidate has also included their professional Twitter and LinkedIn profiles, making it easy for the hiring manager to look more closely into their career.
- Concise and to the point. This candidate has used short paragraphs and bullet points to make the cover letter easy to skim through.
- Wraps up with a call to action. By letting the hiring manager know they’ll be contacting them soon, they’re more likely to make an impression.
Check out this article for a complete writing guide and an inspiring business manager resume sample.
#5. Ph.D. Cover Letter Example
Here’s what this cover letter does right:
- Attention-grabbing introduction. In the opening paragraph, this candidate explains why they’re passionate about pursuing a Ph.D. in great detail.
- Explains the candidate’s qualifications in detail. The candidate builds on their passion by explaining how they’re also qualified for the degree because of their education history and academic achievements.
#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example
- Professional and minimalistic template. This senior executive has used a professional but minimalistic template that lets their work experience do the talking.
- Achievement-oriented opening paragraph. Right from the get-go, this candidate explains what makes them so good at their job, effectively grabbing the hiring manager’s attention.
- Wraps up with a call to action. By suggesting to have a meeting and discussing how they can help the company meet its goals, the candidate stands more chance to make a positive lasting impression.
#7. Architect Cover Letter Example
- Modern resume template. This architect has picked a template that perfectly matches his industry, as it is professional and modern at the same time.
- A personal greeting to the HR. They address the hiring manager by their first name, which helps make a better first impression.
- Measurable achievements. By quantifying their achievements, the candidate proves their achievements instead of just claiming them.
Struggling with your architect resume ? Check out our full guide!
#8. Business Analyst Cover Letter Example
- Detailed contact information. The candidate has listed both their LinkedIn and Twitter profiles, providing the HR manager an opportunity to learn more about the candidate.
- Mentions what the candidate can do for the company. This cover letter doesn’t just explain why the job would be great for the candidate, but also how the candidate would benefit the company. Win-win, right?
- Error-free and reader-friendly. It’s super important for the cover letter to have no spelling or grammatical errors and be reader-friendly. This candidate made sure they did both.
Need a resume alongside your cover letter? Check out our guide on how to write a business analyst resume .
#9. Consultant Cover Letter Example
- Professional cover letter template. Being an experienced consultant, this candidate has picked a professional template that doesn’t steal the spotlight from their achievements.
- Experience and achievement-oriented. The candidate has effectively elaborated on their top achievements relevant to the job.
- Highlights the candidate’s passion. To show they want the job, this candidate has also explained how passionate they are about their profession.
For more advice on landing a job as a consultant, check out our guide to writing a consultant resume .
#10. Digital Marketing Cover Letter Example
- Creative cover letter template. This digital marketer highlights their originality by picking a creative cover letter template.
- Lists the candidate’s awards. The candidate has taken advantage of the cover letter to list their most noteworthy awards in the industry.
- Concludes with a call to action. As they used a call to action to conclude their cover letter, the HR manager will be more likely to remember them.
Want to take your digital marketing resume to the next level? Check out our guide!
#11. Graphic Designer Cover Letter Example
- Detailed contact information. The candidate has included additional contact information such as their website link, as well as their LinkedIn and Twitter profiles.
- Ideal length. This cover letter is concise, which means that the HR manager is more likely to read it from start to finish.
- Draws attention to the candidate’s strong points. Although this candidate is a recent college graduate, they’ve managed to effectively show that they have enough knowledge and experience to do the job right.
Read this guide to write a graphic designer resume that’s just as good as your cover letter!
#12. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Example
- Minimalistic cover letter template. The candidate picked a well-designed but minimalistic template for their cover letter.
- Focused on skills and achievements. This cover letter is packed with the candidate’s skills and achievements, proving he can be an excellent employee.
- Formal closing. Politeness can go a long way and the candidate has used this to their advantage to make an impression.
Our article on how to write an administrative assistant resume can help you take your job application to the next level.
#13. Front Desk Cover Letter Example
- Modern cover letter template. This template incorporates memorable colors and clear lines, which make the cover letter very visually appealing.
- Attention-grabbing introduction. Using an attention-grabbing intro, the candidate is more likely to make an impression.
- Calls the HR to action. By including a call to action, the candidate is reminding the HR of their immediate availability.
#14. Human Resources Cover Letter Example
- It is concise and to the point. The candidate doesn’t dwell on unimportant details the HR won’t be interested in.
- Uses a traditional cover letter template. The cover letter design is more on the conventional side, which fits the industry better.
- Highlights the candidate’s strong points. The candidate has rich work experience and they use the cover letter to elaborate on it.
This HR resume guide can help you get your resume just right.
#15. Sales Agent Cover Letter Example
- Attention-grabbing cover letter template. As a salesperson, this candidate knows how important first impressions are, so they’ve picked a catchy cover letter template.
- Has an ideal length. At the same time, they’ve also made sure to keep their cover letter at just the right length.
- Lists the candidate’s career highlights. The candidate has made perfect use of the space by mentioning their most impressive professional achievements.
Check out this sales agent resume guide to create an attention-grabbing sales resume .
#16. Receptionist Cover Letter Example
- Modern but minimalistic cover letter template. The template’s design hints the candidate is creative but professional at the same time.
- Uses a catchy introduction. The candidate has used an attention-grabbing opening paragraph to catch HR’s attention.
- Concludes the cover letter formally. The candidate proves that they’re polite and well-spoken, a quality very much important for the role they’re applying for.
Take your receptionist resume to the next level with this receptionist resume guide .
#17. Information Technology Cover Letter Example
- Mentions measurable achievements. Numbers make an impact, which is why this candidate has included measurable achievements.
- Lists both soft and hard skills. The candidate has mentioned a great mix of soft and hard skills, showing how well-rounded they are.
- Contains relevant contact information. The candidate’s GitHub, website name, LinkedIn, and Twitter profiles are all great additions to the resume.
Looking for tips to help you write a great IT resume ? Check out our guide!
#18. Real Estate Cover Letter Example
- Ideal length. Short and to the point, this cover letter is bound to get noticed by the HR manager.
- Wraps up with a call to action. This candidate reinforces the HR to call them back through a final call to action.
- Mentions the right skills. On top of their sales accomplishments, the candidate touch upon important soft skills such as customer service and communication .
This real estate resume guide will help you take your resume from good to great.
#19. Teacher Cover Letter Example
- Mentions relevant contact information details. This candidate has included optional (but relevant) contact information details, such as their LinkedIn, Quora, and Medium profiles.
- Achievement-oriented. The candidate has elaborated on their achievements in more detail throughout their cover letter.
- Highlights the candidate’s passion. For some jobs, being passionate is much more important than for others. Teaching is one of these jobs, which is why this candidate explains their passion for the job.
Our guide on how to write a teacher resume has all the tips you need to land the job.
#20. Project Manager Cover Letter Example
- Leverages a catchy introduction. Through a catchy introductory paragraph, this candidate is sure to grab the HR’s attention and get them to read the rest of their cover letter.
- Lists measurable accomplishments. This candidate explains exactly what they’ve achieved using numbers and hard data.
- Personally greets the HR. A personal greeting sounds much better than “Dear Sir/Madam,” and the candidate knows this.
This guide on how to write a project manager resume can help you perfect your appication.
#21. Paralegal Cover Letter Example
- Minimalistic cover letter template. This cover letter design looks good but doesn’t steal the show from the candidate’s abilities.
- Mentions the candidate’s academic achievements and extracurricular activities. Although the candidate is a recent graduate, they’ve used the cover letter to explain they have enough skills and achievements to do the job.
- Lists measurable achievements. The candidate proves they did well in their internship by mentioning quantifiable achievements.
Check out this paralegal resume guide to perfect yours.
What is a Cover Letter?
A cover letter is a one-page document that you submit as part of your job application, alongside your resume .
Its purpose is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background. On average, your cover letter should be from 250 to 400 words long .
A good cover letter can give the hiring manager more insight into what makes you a good candidate and help them make up their mind about whether they should invite you for an interview. A bad cover letter, though, will get ignored (at best) and lose you the job (at worst).
So, to make sure this doesn’t happen, it’s essential to know how to write a convincing cover letter.
The first thing to remember is that a cover letter is a supplement to your resume, not a replacement. Meaning, you shouldn’t just repeat whatever is mentioned in your resume and call it a day.
Optimally, you should use your cover letter to shed more light on your skills and qualifications, as well as explain anything you didn’t have space for in your resume (e.g. a career gap or why you’re changing careers).
If you’re writing a cover letter for the first time, though, putting all this together might seem pretty tough.
Fortunately, you can follow our tried-and-tested format to make the experience much easier:
- Header - Input your contact information.
- Greeting the hiring manager - Open the cover letter with a “Dear Sir or Madam,” or use the hiring manager’s name if you know what that is.
- Opening paragraph - Grab the hiring manager’s attention by getting straight to the point. Mention what your professional experiences are, and what role you’re applying for.
- The second paragraph - Explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the job. Mention your top 2-3 achievements, your top skills, why you want to work in that specific industry, and whatever else is relevant.
- The third paragraph - End your cover letter with a call to action. E.g. “I would love to meet personally and discuss how I can help Company X.”
- Formal closing - Something like this: “Thank you for your consideration. Best, John Doe.”
Here’s what this looks like in practice:
9 Tips to Write a Cover Letter (the Right Way)
Now that we've covered the basics, let's talk about cover letter tips . Below, we'll give you all the knowledge you need to take your cover letter from "OK" to "great."
#1. Pick the right template
A good cover letter is all about leaving the right first impression.
And what’s a better way to leave a good impression than through a professional, well-formatted, and visual template?
You can simply pick one of our tried-and-tested cover letter templates and you’ll be all set!
#2. Add your contact details on the header
The best way to start your cover letter is through a header.
Here’s what you want to include there:
- Phone Number
- Name of the hiring manager / their professional title
- Name of the company you’re applying to
Optionally, you can also include the following:
- Social Media Profiles - Any type of profile that’s relevant to your field. Social Profiles on websites like LinkedIn, GitHub (for developers), Medium (for writers), etc.
- Personal Website - If you have a personal website that somehow adds value to your application, you can mention it. Let’s say you’re a professional writer. In that case, you’d want to link to your content portfolio site or blog.
#3. Greet the hiring manager the right way
Once you’ve listed all your relevant contact information, it’s time to address the hiring manager reading your cover letter.
A good practice here is to find the hiring manager’s name and address them directly instead of using the traditional “dear sir or madam.” This shows that you’re really invested in the company and that you took your time to do some research about the job.
So, how can you find out the hiring manager’s name?
One way to do this is by looking up the head of the company’s relevant department on LinkedIn. Let’s say you’re applying for the position of Communication Specialist at Novoresume. The hiring manager is probably the Head of Communications or the Chief Communications Office.
Or let’s say you’re applying for the position of server at a restaurant. In that case, you’d be looking to find out who the restaurant manager is.
If this doesn’t work, you can also check out the “Team” page on the company website; there’s a good chance you’ll at least find the right person there.
If you still can’t find out the hiring manager’s name, here are several other greetings you can use:
- Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
- Dear Hiring Manager
- To whom it may concern
- Dear [Department] Team
#4. Create an attention-grabbing introduction
Recruiters get hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of applications. Chances are, they’re not going to be reading every single cover letter end-to-end.
So, it’s essential to catch their attention from the very first paragraph.
The problem with most cover letter opening paragraphs, though, is that they’re usually extremely generic, often looking something like this:
Hey, my name is Jonathan and I’d like to work as a Sales Manager at XYZ Inc. I’ve worked as a sales manager at MadeUpCompany Inc. for 5+ years, so I believe that I’d be a good fit for the position.
As you can probably tell, this opening paragraph doesn’t tell the hiring manager anything other than that you’ve worked the job before - and that’s not really helpful in setting you apart from other candidates.
What you want to do, instead, is start off with 2-3 of your top achievements to really grab the reader’s attention. Preferably, the achievements should be as relevant as possible to the position.
For example:
My name’s Michael and I’d like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed its sales goals as a Sales Manager. I’ve worked with Company X, a fin-tech company, for 3+ years. As a Sales Representative, I generated an average of $30,000+ in sales per month (beating the KPIs by around 40%). I believe that my previous industry experience, as well as my excellence in sales, makes me the right candidate for the role of X at Company Y.
The second example shows how the candidate is a top performer. The first just shows that they’ve worked a sales job before.
Which one are YOU more likely to invite for an interview?
#5. Show you’re the perfect person for the job
One great thing about cover letters is that they allow you to expand more on the top achievements from your resume and really show the hiring manager that you’re the right person for the job.
A good way to do that is to first read the job ad and really understand what skills/experiences are required, and then to ensure that your cover letter touches upon the said skills or experiences.
In my previous role as a Facebook Marketing Expert at XYZ Inc. I handled customer acquisition through ads, managing a monthly Facebook ad budget of $20,000+. As the sole digital marketer at the company, I managed the ad creation and management process end-to-end. This means I created the ad copy and images, as well as picked the targeting, ran optimization trials, and so on.
Other than Facebook advertising, I’ve also delved into other online PPC channels, including:
- Google Search
#6. Explain why you’re a great company fit
The HR manager doesn’t only look at whether you’ll be good at the job or not. They’re looking for someone that’s also a good fit for the company culture.
After all, employees that don’t fit in are bound to quit, sooner or later. This ends up costing the company a ton of money, up to 50% of the employee’s annual salary .
To convince the hiring manager that you’re a great company fit, do some research on the company and find out what it is you like about them, or about working there. You want to know things like:
- What’s the company’s business model?
- What’s the company's product or service? Have you used it?
- What’s the culture like? Will someone micro-manage your work, or will you have autonomy on how you get things done?
Then, turn your top reasons for liking to work there into text and add them to your cover letter!
#7. Wrap up with a call to action
To make the end of your cover letter as memorable as possible, you want to:
- Wrap up any points you couldn't in the previous paragraphs. Mention anything you’ve left out that you think could help the hiring manager make up your mind.
- Thank the hiring manager for their time. After all, it never hurts to be polite.
- Finish the cover letter with a call to action. A call to action is a great way to make your cover letter ending as memorable as possible.
#8. Write a formal closing
Once you’re done with the final paragraph, all you have to do is write down a formal “goodbye” and you’re good to go.
Feel free to use one of the most popular conclusions in a cover letter:
- Best Regards,
- Kind Regards,
#9. Proofread your cover letter
Last but not least, make sure to always proofread each and every document that you’ll be including in your job application - cover letter included.
The last thing you want is to be claiming you’re a great candidate for the job with a cover letter full of typos!
For an even more comprehensive guide on how to write an impactful cover letter , check out our article !
Cover Letter Writing Checklist
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you still have some questions about cover letters? Check out the answers below:
1. How do I write a simple cover letter?
To write a cover letter that’s simple but also professional, make sure to include a header with your personal information, a formal greeting to the hiring manager, an attention-grabbing opening paragraph, a second paragraph explaining why you’re a good candidate for the job, and a formal closing (preferably with a call to action).
2. What are the 3 parts of a cover letter?
The three parts of a cover letter are:
- The introduction , namely the header, the greeting to the hiring manager, and the opening paragraph.
- The sales pitch is usually the body of the cover letter.
- The conclusion involves a formal closing and a signature line.
3. What makes a great cover letter?
A great cover letter should be personalized for each job you’re applying for, instead of being overly generic. It’s also preferable to address the hiring manager by their name and not use the overly-used “Dear Sir/Madam.”
To make a great first impression, you should mention 1-2 of your top achievements in your opening paragraph - the more job-specific they are, the better. Also, don’t stop at showing the hiring manager why you’re a great candidate for the job. Make sure to also talk about how you’re a good culture fit for the company.
Last but not least, wrap up your closing paragraph with a call to action to give the hiring manager a little extra something to remember you by.
4. When is a cover letter necessary?
Unless the job ad specifically states otherwise, you should always include a cover letter with your job application .
Even if the hiring manager doesn’t read it, you will look more professional simply by including one.
And that’s a wrap! We hope our cover letter examples and writing tips will inspire you to write a cover letter that will land you your next job.
If you’re looking for more invaluable career advice and articles, make sure to check out our career blog , or any of these related articles:
- How to Make a Resume in 2023
- Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid at All Costs
- Cover Letter Format (w/ Examples & Free Templates)
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