what do you include in a cover letter uk

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How to write a cover letter

There is a problem.

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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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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How to write a cover letter

Everything you need to know write a great cover letter, including:

• What you need to include in your cover letter
• How to layout your cover letter
• The ideal format for your over letter, in terms of length and fonts

Main sections of this guide

What makes a good cover letter, how to layout a cover letter, cover letter layout example, what to include in a cover letter, what not to include in a cover letter.

A good cover letter can be crucial to your job application.

On its own, a cover letter may not seem significant, but a killer cover letter can inspire an employer to look at your CV, which is the main document influencing whether or not they choose to invite you for an interview.

The main signifiers of a good cover letter are:

• It’s tailored specifically to the job you are applying for – not a ‘cookie-cutter’ letter you use for every application
• It’s spells out that you possess the skills required for the job, and that you’d be a good addition to the employer’s culture
• It shows you’ve researched the organisation and demonstrates succinctly how you would be a good fit for the job
• It shows you’re genuinely interested in landing the role
• It supports your CV, but doesn’t reproduce it
• It motivates the reader to look at your CV

Your cover letter should be no longer than one page, and around 300 words. For further information, read our “How long should a cover letter be?” guide.

It should be typed using a standard font such as Arial, Calibri or Verdana, and in 10 or 12 point type for ease of readability. For more information see our “What is the best font for a cover letter?” guide.

Header section with all the key info for you and your application

• Your name (first name and last name)

Your current job title (optional)

• Your email address
• Your mobile phone number
• Your LinkedIn URL (optional)
• Your online portfolio URL (optional)
• The job title of the role you’re applying
• The job code for the role you’re applying for (optional)

The date you’re submitting your application

For more information, see the “Cover letter header” section below in this guide.

Polite, formal greeting

Ideally, you’ll address your cover letter to the hiring manager.

The “How to find out the name of the hiring manager” section of our “How to start a cover letter” guide offers some useful tips to help you find a name.

If you know the name of the person you are writing to, you should follow this format:

• ‘Dear’
• An honorific (such as Mr, Ms, Professor)
• Their surname

For example:

Dear Ms Smith,

If you’re unable to find the name of the person who’ll receive your cover letter, use this professional letter writing convention:

Dear Sir/Madam,

For further advice writing the beginning of your letter, read our “How to start a cover letter” guide.

First paragraph: impactful opening statement

Your goal is to immediately give the hiring manager a good reason to read on, so start with a bang.

If your opening statement isn’t compelling, they may give up, especially if it sounds just the same as ten letters they have already looked at that day.

Second paragraph: evidence you have the required skills

Once you’ve got their interest, explain why you’d be a good fit for the job.

Outline the skills and experience you have that are in line with the requirements in the job description.

This paragraph should help the recruiter see right away that you’d excel in the job.

Third paragraph: example of why you’d be a good addition to their culture

Next, try and give an example from your past employment, education or personal life which shows how your motivations and/or personality traits align with the employer’s goals.

Closing paragraph: ‘thank you’

Your last paragraph should simply be a polite thank you for the time they have taken in considering your application.

For further information, see the “Cover letter closing paragraph example” section in our “How to end a cover letter” guide.

You don’t need to add in a reminder of how to contact you, or say again how keen you are: this should already have come across clearly in previous points.

All you are trying to achieve with your closing statement is to demonstrate that you are a polite and thoughtful person.

Polite, formal sign-off

Sign off in a professional and friendly manner with ‘Kind regards,’. This is the more professional sign-off, and preferred to the more formal ‘Yours sincerely’.

Use your first name only, not your surname.

See the “Cover letter sign-off example” in our “How to end a cover letter” piece.

Look at our “Good cover letter example” piece for advice on how to lay out your cover letter.

It offers a template you can use as a guide for writing your own cover letter, and provides an example letter so you can see how a good cover letter should read.

Cover letter header

You should include the key details of your application at the top of your letter, before the greeting. These should include:

Make sure it is the same as the name on your CV.

For example, if your CV says ‘Stephen Davis’, this is the name that should be used on your cover letter. Don’t say ‘Steve Davis’ or ‘S. Davis’ instead.

Include this if it’s highly relevant to the job you are applying for.

For example, if you’re applying for a position that’s a natural progression from your current job.

If your current job has no relevance, don’t include it here.

Your email address and mobile phone number

Add your personal email and mobile phone number.

Turn your voicemail on.

If your personal email address doesn’t sound professional, create a new one for job applications.

If you have a work email address and/or work phone, don’t use it.

Your contact details should be exactly the same on your cover letter and CV.

Your LinkedIn profile URL, if you have a great profile (optional)

A well-written LinkedIn profile will increase your chances of securing an interview.

For advice on writing your LinkedIn profile, read the detailed “How to write a great LinkedIn profile” guide on our sister site, Totaljobs.

Your online portfolio, if it contains works relevant to this job (optional)

Great examples of previous works that demonstrate you’d excel in the role you’re applying for will almost certainly land you a job interview, even if the rest of your CV and cover letter aren’t that strong.

The job title for the job you’re applying for (and the job code if there is one)

So that the employer can see at a glance to which job your document relates to.

Put the date you send your cover letter and CV, as opposed to the date you started drafting your cover letter.

The date: this should be the date you actually submit your application.

Impactful opening statement

• Which of the employer’s products, services and/or initiatives you admire most
• Why you admire it
• Why you’re motivated to help improve and/or develop it

A referral (if applicable)

If you have been recommended to apply for the job by a shared connection, or a person the hiring manager will be aware of and/or impressed by, mention it in the opening paragraph.

Outline how you know them and why they are recommending you.

Show you have the skills required for the job

The employer needs to know that you have the ability to do the job and meet the requirements mentioned in the job description.

So, if that document requests, “at least two years’ sales experience,” and you have that or more, say something like, “I have four years experience in sales.”

Give examples of relevant experience

Describing how you handled situations in the past helps demonstrate that you’ll be a good choice for the job you’re applying for.

The STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result) is a good way to communicate this type of information.

Read the “How to use the STAR technique” on our sister Milkround for detailed advice on using the STAR technique in your cover letter.

Show why you’d would be a good addition to the organisation’s culture

Hiring managers like to know that you will fit in with the organisation and share their values. This is known as ‘culture fit’.

They also want people who can add new ideas and perspectives. This is known as ‘culture add’.

Your cover letter is a good place to show how your personality traits and/or motivations align with the organisation’s, and how your interests inside and outside of the workplace enable you to bring new ways of thinking to their organisation.

Explain gaps in your CV (if applicable)

Employers will be suspicious if there’s a gap of months or years in your employment history on your CV with no explanation.

You can explain the reason for the gap in your cover letter and show how you have developed professionally as a result.

• If your gap was due to caring for a child or an elderly relative, you could show how that helped you develop resilience and empathy, and improved your problem-solving and multitasking skills
• If you went travelling or relocated with a partner or family, you could explain how it enabled you to adapt to different environments
• If you were made redundant, clarify the reason for the redundancy and outline any training or volunteering you undertook while you were looking for another job
• If you were ill, state it simply and add that you have fully recovered (you don’t have to go into details of the illness)
• If you were fired, be upfront about it and reassure them that you have changed, learned from the experience and taken steps to ensure you won’t make the same mistakes again

Explain why you’re making a career change (if applicable)

If you’re looking to move into a different type of job, use your cover letter to explain how your previous experience can benefit the job you’re applying for.

For example, if you used to work in retail with a lot of customer contact, you could have ideal skills to work in an online customer care team.

Emphasise transferable skills such as people management, leadership and communications which can be valuable in many different careers.

Don’t include spelling and grammar errors

Spelling and grammar mistakes are the death knell for most cover letters and CVs.

Employers will reasonably assume that if you cannot make the effort of checking your spelling and grammar before sending a letter, you may take the same sloppy approach to working for them.

Make sure you check and double-check your letter before sending it, and perhaps ask a reliable friend if they could check it for you, too.

In addition, there are plenty of online spelling and grammar checkers you could use, most notably the built-in checkers in Microsoft Word and Google Docs.

Don’t include information intended for another application

It’s reasonable to use the same cover letter layout for each job application. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel each time you apply for a job.

Our “Good cover letter example” is designed to cover most job applications.

However, it’s very important that each letter is customised to the job you are applying for and does not include information intended for another employer. So be sure to check the following:

• You’re using the correct job title and reference in the cover letter header
• You have the right date, and not the date you sent the previous letter
• If you’re greeting the addressee by name, make sure it’s the correct name
• Your impactful opening statement is customised to the job you are applying for
• Your STAR examples are appropriate for the job

Don’t repeat the contents of your CV

Your cover letter is the place to elaborate and highlight particular aspects of your employment history and education.

It’s not the place to copy and paste text from your CV.

Don’t include negative comments about other people

Don’t say anything derogatory about previous employers, colleagues, university lecturers or competitors.

Especially, don’t say anything critical about the organisation you’re applying for.

Don’t include lies

Don’t be tempted to lie or stretch the truth, for example about your qualifications or previous jobs.

It’s very easy to discover the truth and most employers will check references and certificates.

Don’t include discuss salary

Your cover letter is not the place to discuss remuneration, even if the employer has asked you for salary expectations.

If they are interested in you, they will possibly discuss salary in a screening interview.

If the job advertisement mentions a salary range, don’t try and negotiate in your cover letter. If they haven’t mentioned it in the ad, and you really want to know, you could call them and ask.

You should only negotiate a salary once you have been offered the job.

For detailed advice on negotiating salary, see the “How to negotiate salary (in the UK)” guide on our sister site Milkround.

Don’t overshare details about your personal life

Don’t share details of your family connections, your ability to drink team-mates under the table, your personal best time in the London Marathon, or anything else that isn’t relevant to the job.

Don’t include humour

Humour is very subjective.

A joke you think is hilarious could be viewed as unfunny or, worse, offensive by someone else.

So, steer clear of it in your letter.

Don’t include your addresses or the employer’s address

Despite what you may have been told or read elsewhere, you don’t need to put the employer’s address on your cover letter. It’s an outdated convention.

It may surprise you to learn that you should not include your own address on your letter or CV, either.

Your CV should include the city, town or county you live in, but do not include your full address.

This is for data protection reasons, as your cover letter and CV are documents which could, in theory, be read by anyone able to get hold of them.

Most applications via an online portal will ask for your postal address in a data-secure environment.

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How to Write a Cover Letter in the UK in 2024 + Examples

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.

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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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