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How to Write a Job Application Cover Letter

Writing a cover letter is essential when applying for jobs. This is the perfect way to express how your specific skills are relevant to the open position. Wow your future employer with this simple cover letter example format.

Write a First Draft

Writing a first draft makes your letter concise and professional, states The Balance Careers. Organize your thoughts by making a list of what you’re trying to convey. Make sure you prioritize certain aspects like your previous job experience and why you would be a good fit for the position. Clearly state what position you’re interested in and why. Think about why you’re applying and what caught your eye about this specific position. Your cover letter will be easier to write after your thoughts are collected and organized.

Customize Your Salutation

When writing a salutation, make sure you know who you are writing to. Is this person the owner of the company or a Human Resources administrator? If you’re not sure, research the company to find out. Addressing your cover letter to a specific person shows initiative and attention to detail. After your salutation, start your letter with a short introduction of yourself. This gives future employers insight into who you are and the purpose of your cover letter.

Write Intentionally

Your cover letter should be no more than one page, so keep your points brief. Clearly state what position you are interested in and why. Explain why you are a good fit for the company because of your past job experience. If you have no similar job experience, let the employer know why you are changing career paths. Expand on your skills and give specific examples of how that skill set helped you at your last position. Name projects you’ve worked on and show results.

Close Your Letter

End your cover letter with a brief sentence and sign off. Thank the employer for their time and express your interest towards the job again. Let them know you’ll follow up with them if you do not hear back within a week and leave your contact information. Sign off with a professional farewell and leave room for a signature if sending a hard copy.

Edit and Proofread

As you finish writing your cover letter, make sure you take time to edit and proofread your document. Make sure it’s structured in a professional format with the company’s information, the salutation and introduction, the body of the letter, a brief closing sentence and farewell. Check for spelling and grammar mistakes to ensure a formal result. Make sure all names are spelled correctly, as well.

Cover Letter Templates: How To Write & Examples

3 Examples of Cover Letter Templates

While there’s no “right” way to write a cover letter, these templates are a great jumping off point for writing your own.

Simple Cover Letter Template

Thank you for your time and for considering my application for the [job title] position at [company name].

I’m writing to you today because I believe my experience in [relevant experience] and my skills in [relevant skills] are a perfect fit for the job. I believe that my experience [relevant experience] would allow me to hit the ground running in this role, and my skills in [relevant skills] will help me succeed in it.

I know that [company name] is a great place to work, and I'm excited to be part of an organization that cares so much about its employees. I'm sure that if you give me the opportunity, I’ll be able to make a positive contribution to your organization.

Thank you again for considering me for this opportunity. If you have any questions about my experience or skills, please feel free to reach out.

[your name]

More : Use this free template to create your simple cover letter in seconds

Short Cover Letter Template

Dear [name],

I'm writing to express my interest in the [job title] position at [company name]. I'd like to discuss my experience and skills with you in more detail.

I've been working in [industry] for [number of years]. I have experience working as [title], where I used my skills in [skill]. I’m passionate about [company's mission], which is why I am writing to you today.

I believe my experience and skills would be a strong addition to your team. I would be grateful if you would consider me for this position.

Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you soon!

More : Use this free template to create your short cover letter in seconds

Professional Cover Letter Template

Hello! My name is [your name], and I'm a [your job title] at [current company name]. I've been reading about the work you do in your industry, and I'm very intrigued by it. I think your company is doing incredible things, and I'd love to be able to work with you and your team in some capacity.

I have a [your degree] and I've been in this field for [x] years. I'd be happy to talk about my time at [current company name] if you'd like more details about my experience.

I'm interested in working with you because I believe in your mission and vision for the future of your company. I think that I could bring a lot to the table as we work together. Thank you for considering me for this position.

More : Use this free template to create your professional cover letter in seconds

How to use Copy.ai’s free cover letter template

You’ve found it—the perfect job. You meet the job requirements, and the company has lots of the benefits and perks you’re looking for.

You go to apply, and that’s when you see it—the dreaded “Attach cover letter here” button.

With an average of 250 applicants for each job posting, it’s important to stand out. Cover letters can help you do just that—but they can also be confusing and tedious to write.

Let Copy.ai help. Use our free cover letter template to craft an engaging, personalized cover letter, so you can land the job you’ve been looking for.

To access the cover letter templates, click here . You need to be logged in to see the template.

You’ll be directed to a page that prompts you to fill out the main points of your template, including:

Copy.ai Freestyle AI Tool For Cover Letters

Let’s say you’re applying for a job in healthcare as an executive assistant at a hospital specializing in cancer care. Here’s what it would look like when you’re filling out the form:

You choose the “professional” tone and click “Create content,” generating this cover letter:

When submitting your information in our cover letter generator, be sure to add experience details that help you stand out from other applicants. In this example, highlighting from the start that you already have a number of years working in a similar role in the same type of setting shows that you can handle the pressure and demands the role requires.

How do you write a cover letter?

If you have more time and are feeling up to the task, you might be interested in writing a cover letter from scratch. But maybe you’re not sure where to begin. Here are three simple steps to get started.

Research the company and position

Take some time to look into the company where you’re applying and the position you’re interested in. You can see if the company has been in the news for any achievements or read reviews that might give insight into the company culture.

Read the job description thoroughly so you understand the role. In addition to the job duties and requirements, be sure you understand the expected schedule—is it strictly work-from-home, or is it more of a hybrid model?

The more you know about the place you’re applying to and the role you want, the more personalized your content will be.

Outline your letter

The structure of your cover letter is as important as the content. There are lots of job seekers out there, so you want your cover letter to be easy to read for whoever receives it.

Here’s a sample cover letter outline to follow:

Be mindful of the tone

You want to be enthusiastic and authentic. Express your excitement about your potential move into the role you’re applying for, but don’t make any sweeping, potentially fake-sounding statements about the company.

Don’t be afraid to talk yourself up

Sure, a professional resume will have all the stats, but the cover letter is where you can shine.

Sure, your resume will show you have X amount of years in a certain position, but in the cover letter, you can go deeper. Tell a brief story about your responsibilities or explain how you made a positive impact in that role. You want your future employer to see what you’re capable of and how you can make a difference.

Help land your dream job with Copy.ai’s free cover letter templates

Stand out from the other applicants vying for the job you want with a strong cover letter. Use Copy.ai’s simple cover letter template to show hiring professionals and companies why you’re the ideal candidate for the job.

Frequently Asked Questions

A cover letter introduces you to your potential employer and ideally positions you as the best candidate for the position you’re applying for.

Your cover letter will highlight the key points from your resume and showcase your most relevant skills and experience. Resumes can be overwhelming and overloaded with details that the reader may skim over—the cover letter can show off your notable achievements.

A cover letter also allows you to inject some personality into the process and make a good first impression.

It depends. The best practice is to submit the letter according to the instructions provided by the potential employer (or current employer if you’re applying for a promotion or lateral move).

Most applications today ask for resumes and cover letters to be submitted through a website, but some companies may ask for email submissions.

A cover letter should be written to the head of the team or department you’re applying to.

If the job description doesn’t list the employee who’s reviewing applications, browse through the company’s People page on their site or on LinkedIn to find a hiring manager or recruiter you can address the letter to.

Still unsure of who to direct the cover letter to? Consider using the generic phrase, “To whom it may concern,” which is still professional and polite.

While cover letters are usually for job applications, there are other circumstances where a cover letter may be required:

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Cover Letter Examples That Will Help Get You Hired

If you're wondering how to write a cover letter , you're in the right place! Monster's library of cover letter examples can help you do exactly that.

It doesn't matter what industry you're in or level you're at in your career—to get noticed by potential employers, your professional cover letter needs to knock their socks off. Writing a good cover letter is about much more than friendly greeting; it's a tool that lets hiring managers know that you're the candidate they've been hoping for.

Because recruiters and hiring managers have seen every type of cover letter format imaginable, for maximum wow-factor, you must build a cover letter that highlights your industry-specific experience, accomplishments , and credentials.

Is a Cover Letter Necessary?

If the job ad calls for a cover letter, yes, it is necessary to include one. Failure to have a cover letter for a job can immediately disqualified you from consideration if it’s explicitly stated that one is required. As a job seeker, you need to demonstrate that you’re able to follow directions. An employer might interpret your missing cover letter to mean that you didn’t pay attention to what was asked of you. Not a good look.

If a job ad doesn’t say a cover letter is required , then you do not need to include one with your application. That said, if the job application has a section for any additional information you would like to share with an employer, it’s highly recommended that you copy and paste the text of your cover letter into this area. The same is true if you’re required to email your application; copy and paste your cover letter into the body of the email.

As good a source of candidate information as a resume is, it doesn’t really give you the same kind of opportunity to share your personality with an employer. Culture fit is very high on the list of determining factors that can cause you to be hired, and a good cover letter can mean the difference between you getting called in for an interview or not.

Cover Letter Length

A cover letter shouldn't be longer than one page; three or four paragraphs will suffice. Aim for about 250 to 400 words. Any longer, and your efforts risk being wasted.

First of all, hiring managers and recruiters are busy people who don’t have time to read through pages and pages of copy. Second, you should be able to succinctly hit your selling points. This may take a few rounds to perfect, but it’ll be worth it. Nobody wants you to spend time and energy writing scrolls of copy that a hiring manager won’t even both reading on account of you being long-winded.

Tips for Using Cover Letter Templates

1. Customize your cover letter for each job. In the examples below, you’ll see the advantage of having a dedicated space to engage with an employer, but don't rely on a generic cover letter to get noticed. Create a different cover letter for each job to which you're applying. Companies want to feel special, like you're applying to their job, not just any old job. Tell a brief story or two that demonstrates how your skills and experience can benefit the company’s particular needs.

2. Don't simply reiterate your resume. In a cover letter, you don’t just list facts about your work history—you use emotion and storytelling to add some life to the page. For example, if you see on a company’s website that they’re in the process of rolling out new products to the international market, you can talk about how you’ve been involved in a number of successful global product launches and really loved developing marketing campaigns for different countries and customs, which strengthened your dedication to connecting with customers all over the world.

3. Put your personality into it. Whatever you do, do not simply copy and paste these cover letter examples and pass them off as your own. The whole point of a cover letter is to convince an employer of your one-of-a-kind value.

Steps to Write a Cover Letter

Start with the proper greeting: Address your cover letter to the person who will be reading it. If you do not know the person's gender, write out their full name.

Dear Ms. Smith / Dear Mr. Jones / Dear Lee Caroll

Introduce yourself with an opening : Write a personable, inviting opening paragraph that highlights how your skills are a perfect fit to the company and position.

I was so excited to see your product photographer job posting on Monster, and I am confident I can support your creative department in producing high-quality product shots for marketing and social media—especially for your highly anticipated upcoming summer catalog.

Get them interested with a compelling hook: Highlight your past achievements as they relate to the job you're applying for.

Skilled at creating images that capture attention on social media, I've had thousands of my images appear on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, Twitter, and Tumblr. I play a key role in the visual storytelling and branding of leading consumer product companies and contribute to successful marketing campaigns.

Promote your skills : Highlight your additional relevant skills, such as computer languages or certifications.

I have expert knowledge of Photoshop, InDesign, Lightroom, Bridge, Illustrator, and Capture One Pro; studio and lighting setups; and equipment including ZZY cameras (I currently shoot with an EOS 5D Mark IV). I love learning about and applying the latest advances in photography tools, services, and equipment to enhance photo quality and streamline workflows.

Thank them in the close : Briefly recap your strengths as a candidate, thank the reader for their time, and include your contact information.

I would love the opportunity to discuss with you how I can create images that bring your brand's strategic vision to life. I can be reached at (555) 555-5555 or [email protected] Thank you so much for your time. I look forward to hearing from you.

A professional cover letter is worth all the effort. If you need writing help, check out these cover letter templates for various careers and career levels in the following industries:

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Finished Writing a Cover Letter? Now Get Your Resume in Shape

Once you've used Monster's cover letter examples to complete your own, it's time to focus on that other important piece of paper: your resume. Could you use a little help with that? Get a free resume evaluation today from Monster, and you'll get detailed feedback in two business days. It's a quick and easy way to make sure your candidacy for the job is as strong as possible.

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Cover Letter Examples and Writing Tips

Alison Doyle is one of the nation’s foremost career experts.

What is a Cover Letter?

How to write a cover letter, cover letter examples and templates, basic cover letters to apply for a job, email cover letter examples, cover letters with a referral, examples listed by type of applicant, cover letters listed by occupation, applying for a transfer or promotion, inquiry and networking letters.

Cover Letter Formats

Do you need to write a cover letter? A cover letter should be sent or posted with your resume or curriculum vitae when applying for a job, so it's essential to write a good one. Your cover letter is an opportunity to show the employer how you're an excellent match for a position.

Learn about writing a cover letter, including what to include, how to send it, review examples, and get free templates to download for many different types of occupations and applications. There are also guidelines and samples for writing email cover letters, inquiry letters, referral letters, prospecting letters, and networking letters.

A cover letter is a (typically) one-page document that explains to the hiring manager why you are an ideal candidate for the job. It goes beyond your resume to explain in detail how you could add value to the company.

A cover letter is a document that you send or upload with your resume when applying for jobs to provide additional information on your skills and experience.

A cover letter may be required by an employer, optional, or not needed as part of a job application. The requirements should be listed in the job posting.

Keep in mind that your cover letter doesn't have to be boring. Taking some time to showcase your personality and how it will be an asset to the employer can help your application get noticed. Follow these tips on how to write an effective cover letter .

Tailor each letter to the job. It takes a little extra time, but be sure to write a unique cover letter for each job. Your cover letter should be specific to the position you are applying for, relating your skills and experiences to those noted in the job posting.

Use keywords. One useful way to tailor your letter to the job is to use keywords from the job posting. Circle any words from the job posting that seem critical to the job, such as specific skills or qualifications. Try to use some of these words in your letter. This way, at a glance, the employer can see that you match the requirements of the job.

Explain how you will add value. Think of concrete ways to prove you will add value to the company. Include examples of specific accomplishments from previous jobs. For example, if you helped reduce turnover by 10% at your last company, or implemented a filing strategy that reduced file errors by 15%, include this information.

Try to quantify your successes when possible to clearly demonstrate how you could add value to the company.

Carefully edit your letter. Your cover letter is your first, and best, chance to sell the hiring manager on your candidacy for employment, so make sure it's perfect. Read through your letter, proofreading it for any spelling or grammar errors. Ask a friend, family member, or career counselor to read it as well. You want to make sure the letter is polished before submitting it.

It can be beneficial to look at cover letter examples when writing your own. A sample can help you decide what to include in your letter, and show you how to format it.

This collection of free, professionally written cover letters will help you get started writing your own letters.

Below you'll find both hard copy and email samples and templates, for a variety of different types of employment inquiries and job applications, including general cover letters, cold contact cover letters, referral letters, customized cover letters, job promotion letters, networking outreach letters, and letters to inquire about unadvertised openings.

Applying for a new job can be both exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. However, writing a cover letter that really “sells” the qualities you have to offer an employer is a great confidence-builder—you’ll know your letter is perfect when you read it and think, “Hey—I’d interview me!” Here are some examples of effective cover letters, with downloadable templates.

While cover letters that are emailed do not have as conservative a format as traditional “snail mail” cover letters, there is still a specific structure one should observe when drafting and sending them. Here’s how to make sure your email cover letter gets read.

One of the best ways to “get your foot in the door” at a company you would love to work for is to mention a professional connection to one of their current personnel. Here’s how to ask someone to serve as a referral for you and how to drop their name in your cover letter.

The ideal content and format of a cover letter depend both upon the type of position you are applying for and your relevant experience.

The cover letter of a seasoned professional will emphasize experience, whereas that of a recent college graduate is best focused upon training and potential.

Here's a list of cover letter samples and downloadable templates listed by industry and position. Choose one that's a match for the jobs you're applying for, then tweak it to include your most relevant skills and experience.

Cover Letters Listed by Type of Job

When you’ve worked for an employer for a while and know, through both your own impressions and strong performance reviews, that they value your work, it may be time to ask for a promotion or a transfer to a better position. Be proactive—companies don’t always have upward career tracks, and may not automatically award a promotion unless this is requested.

Applying to officially advertised positions isn’t the only way to land your dream job. Often opportunities can be discovered through strategic networking; more than one person has been offered a position because they made their availability and interest known to employers who were not actively hiring.

Cover Letter Formats and Templates

Review more examples of professional formats, layouts, and templates to use to apply for jobs, keeping in mind that you should tailor any cover letter template you decide to use as your model to reflect your own circumstances and personality.

Cover Letter Template to Download

Download the cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs or Word) or see below for more examples.

Cover Letter Sample (Text Version)

Joseph Q. Applicant 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 555-212-1234 josephq@email.com

July 20, 2020

Jane Smith Director, Human Resources Fit Living 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321

Dear Ms. Smith:

I’m writing to apply for the position of Social Media Manager for Fit Living, as advertised on your website careers page. I have three years of experience as a Social Media Assistant for Young Living, and I believe I am ready to move up to the manager position.

In your job posting, you mention that you want to hire a Social Media Manager who understands the Internet and social media trends. During my time at Young Living, I was given the responsibility of increasing follower numbers on Instagram. I explained to my manager that I would be happy to do so and that I would also work hard to increase follower participation because engagement has become an important metric.

Within six months, I increased our followers by over 50% and increased engagement by 400%. I’m very proud of that accomplishment. Currently, I’m working to build a following with the best influencers in our niche.

When I saw the job opening, I knew it was the perfect opportunity to offer you both my social media marketing skills and people skills. I’ve included my resume so you can learn more about my educational background and all of my work experience. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Please feel free to email me at josephq@email.com or call my cell phone at 555-555-5555. I hope to hear from you soon.

Your Signature (hard copy letter)

Joseph Q. Applicant

Watch Now: 9 Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid

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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.

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.

A fillable general cover letter template

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.

An example of a creative cover letter template

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.

An example of an entry level cover letter template for a candidate with no work experience

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.

An example of a cover letter template for an experienced professional with significant work experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cover Letters

What should a cover letter include.

A cover letter should include four essential parts:

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:

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:

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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Cover Letter Templates

Cover letter templates and guidance that provides structure and foundation for your own cover letter.

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The Benefits of Using Cover Letter Templates

Cover letters , being somewhat antiquated and rarely used, can be a bit of a mystery to put together when they are required as part of a job application. Whether you are a young professional with little experience writing cover letters or a seasoned professional, cover letters can be tricky. Enter cover letter templates.

Cover letter templates are a great resource to help you answer questions about what to include in your cover letter and how to format it. Since cover letters are meant to be short–roughly 400 words–each piece of information you include needs to be deliberate and purposeful.

Checking out different cover letter templates and learning the basic formats and necessary components will benefit you in your current job search and in any future searches. Ultimately, cover letter templates act as a step-by-step guide for writing your own cover letter. Keep in mind that the best template for your cover letter could change with each job application.

The Wrong Way to Use a Cover Letter Template

Here at Jobscan , we spend a lot of time talking about resumes. We even wrote a whole page about resume templates. Just like there are with resume templates, there are also right and wrong ways to use cover letter templates.

One of the incorrect ways of using a cover letter template is to simply rephrase exactly what your resume says. Why? A cover letter is not a resume. The purpose of a resume is to pull out the most important parts of your work and educational history, sharing only brief, measurable information about each part. The purpose of a cover letter is to pick out a few of the most relevant pieces of information from your resume, and use them to back up your explanation of why you are the best candidate for each particular job. Your cover letter builds on your resume, it does not mirror it.

Another incorrect way to use a cover letter template is to choose the very first template you come across. Sure, that template could, in theory, be the best one. However, your goal when searching for the correct template is to find one that fits both your work experience and the job you are applying for seamlessly.

Even when you find the best cover letter template for you, it is important that you don’t mindlessly enter the information that the template suggests. Be picky about what you decide to include in your cover letter. If the template suggests adding a particular piece of information that you find irrelevant to the job, don’t include it.

Furthermore, never copy and paste into the template. Open a blank document beside the cover letter template and start writing your cover letter from scratch, using the template as a reference. Copy and pasting won’t only keep you from being critical, it may also create formatting errors and eliminate and important stage of the editing process. Recruiters can spot copy and pasting from a mile away, and they will stop reading as soon as they recognize it. If a cover letter doesn’t show effort, you won’t seem serious about the job.

In fact, don’t even use a template (funny how we mention this in a cover letter template post). Write one from scratch as if you were writing to someone you already know (imagine the recruiter is your childhood friend’s buddy) . Your personality will come across and you won’t sound like a genetic clone of another candidate. But if you’re running blank, we have templates for you to reference.

The Correct Way to Use a Cover Letter Template

Cover letters are meant to give the hiring manager a glimpse into your accomplishments as well as your personality. They put your experience into perspective for each job you apply for, showing the hiring manager why and how you would be a great fit. Cover letter templates can be especially valuable when transitioning careers because you can highlight specific skills and experiences.

Each cover letter you write should expand on only the most relevant and valuable pieces of your experience pertaining to the job. Using measurable results while writing your cover letter–think percentages, dollar amounts and other numbers–are the cherry on top of the perfect cover letter.

Cover letter templates hold most of their value in their structure. One of the trickiest parts of writing a cover letter is just figuring out what goes where. Use a template to help you set up your paragraphs and sections. The content and headings within each section will vary from person to person.

Take your time browsing cover letters , and remember that one template might work well for a particular job, while another will work better for another job. Your cover letter should remain extremely malleable throughout the application process. Do not use the same one for every job.

The example below shows a well-constructed cover letter template. The headings show the framework of a basic cover letter. The information below those headings are examples of how to fill in those blocks. A framework is exactly how you should think of a cover letter template.

How to Make Your Cover Letter Template Your Own

The point of a cover letter is to make your personal skills and accomplishments shine. While using a cover letter template will help you organize your cover letter and generate ideas for what to include, making your cover letter your own is crucial to the process.

Your letter template will be your guide to writing your personalized cover letter. The correct way to use a cover letter template is to not copy the content in the sections exactly. Rather, determine which sections and information make the most sense for you and the job your are applying for, and mold your cover letter to fit that information.

In order to customize it to both you and each job you apply for. At every stage of the writing process, ask yourself, “is this the best depiction of me?” and “Is this relevant to the job?”.

These questions mean that you should not be using the same cover letter for every job you apply for. While the structure can remain the same, the content needs to be tailored carefully for each job.

A big part of customizing your cover letter is research. Do research using the job posting, company website and similar resources. Compare your cover letter to the job posting . This research will help you direct your cover letter, and it will better prepare you for a future interview with that company.

Final piece of advice, don’t think cover letter as a the traditional cover letter. Think of it as a message to introduce yourself and why they should meet with you. It can be casually professional.

Cover Letter Templates FAQ

A cover letter template is an outline or guide to use while writing your cover letter. Think of it as the skeleton or outline of your cover letter.

What is the difference between a cover letter and a resume?

A resume is a technical document listing your measurable work history. A cover letter expands upon the most important and relevant aspects of your resume.

Is a cover letter template the same as an example?

Some cover letter templates are examples, while others are blank except for headings. If you are less familiar with cover letters, you may benefit more from using cover letter examples alongside your template.

Explore more cover letter resources

How to Address a Cover Letter

Cover Letter Tips

Cover Letter Examples

Cover Letter Writing Guide

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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 Cascade

Professional cover letter template with a column for contact information

Professional cover letter Template Concept

Modern cover letter template with delicate icons for contact information.

Professional cover letter Template Crisp

Creative cover letter template with graphic elements and two columns

Professional cover letter Template Cubic

Perfect cover letter template with a dash of color and a structured layout

Professional cover letter Template Vibes

Sleek cover letter template with a light feel and color accents

Professional cover letter Template Diamond

Classic cover letter template in a one column layout

Professional cover letter Template Enfold

Two column cover letter template with contact information highlighted on the right

Professional cover letter Template Iconic

Clean cover letter template with plenty of whitespace and a layout that feels complete

Professional cover letter Template Influx

Elegant cover letter template with a single column classic feel

Professional cover letter Template Initials

Unique cover letter template with your initials on top and icons on the left

Professional cover letter Template Minimo

Elegant cover letter template with great readability

Two column cover letter template with a neat structure

Professional cover letter Template Modern

Modern cover letter template with a clean-cut layout and two columns

Professional cover letter Template Nanica

Elegant cover letter template with a top-bottom structure and clean sections.

Professional cover letter Template Newcast

Elegant cover letter template with appealing typography and flow

Professional cover letter Template Primo

Creative cover letter template with initials as the logo and delicate graphic accents

Professional cover letter Template Simple

Simple cover letter template that draws attention to your title and personal story

Professional cover letter Template Valera

Traditional cover letter template with minimal design, but a finished feel

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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:

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:

In the cover letter body, here's what should be available:

Those lists are not exhaustive; you can add more information for a better chance of success, such as your title or a post-scriptum. Read more about all the important things to include in a cover letter here .

How long should a cover letter be?

A cover letter should be one-page long , on a single-page cover letter template, and composed of around 4 paragraphs, along with contact information in the header. 400 words is a good limit, as more could mean no recruiter will read your document, and not enough will not make it seem worth the attempt. Depending on your experience, industry, and circumstances, the amount of information to write can vary. We encourage you to read our post on the ideal cover letter length in 2023 .

Do I need a unique cover letter for every job?

While writing a different cover letter for each job may sound tedious, it is a necessary step to increase your chances of being hired . A cover letter is impactful only when it is not generic, and when it surprises the recruiters with important and interesting details about you and your reasons to apply. Each cover letter must therefore be unique . However, you can save precious time by using our online cover letter builder , which allows you to duplicate, modify, save, and download your cover letters with just a few clicks. Besides, it offers pre-written content that you can use to write different application letters in no time.

Should I use a PDF or a Word cover letter template?

Just like your resume should be sent in PDF format , it is best to download your cover letter in PDF, too. The PDF format allows your cover letter layout to remain unchanged, whatever the device used by recruiters. Our cover letter templates all match our resume templates, and can be exported in Docx (Word), for you to modify them later, or in PDF for you to send them immediately.

Can I email my cover letter instead of sending a cover letter template?

For job offers that don't request a cover letter, and when you don't have time to write one, you can write a short cover letter directly in your email's body .Before choosing that option, we'd like to point out that our online cover letter application can generate a cover letter template with pre-written content for you, making the process faster and easier. If you still prefer to send a letter in text form rather than a cover letter template, here are all our tips on how to email a cover letter successfully.

Do you have cover letter examples for my template?

Our cover letter templates can be filled online using pre-written content. You'll only have to input your job title and generate content quickly and conveniently.Adapt what matters, and copy the rest to save time and speed up your job hunt.To help you adapt your cover letter and make it perfectly targeted, we have written hundreds of cover letter examples that you can find here .

How to make a cover letter with no experience?

A cover letter template can seem hard to fill with useful information when your resume itself is quite light on job experience and hard skills . But it is in those cases that your cover letter is even more important. Entry-level candidates can't rely on experience, and must therefore make the most of their soft skills , projects and original ideas. To start with, we encourage you to make a resume with no experience , and then write an entry-level cover letter that will complement it.

Are Zety cover letter templates free?

All our cover letter templates are free-to-use, and entirely customizable online. You don't have to pay to create as many cover letters as you want, until you are satisfied with the result.Zety follows the 'try before you buy' rule, and will never ask you for payment until you are 100% certain your cover letter template is pixel-perfect and ready to be sent to employers.

Try Zety's professional cover letter builder now

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The 12 Best Cover Letter Examples: What They Got Right

Published: February 16, 2023

Fun is not something typically associated with writing a cover letter. However, with a few tweaks, writing one doesn’t have to be a burden.

job seeker reviewing best cover letter examples

The cover letter examples below demonstrate that it is possible to have a little fun with your job search — and maybe even make yourself a better candidate in the process.

→ Click here to access 5 free cover letter templates [Free Download]

What is a good cover letter?

A cover letter is used to demonstrate your interest in the role, passion for the company, and the impact you've had in previous positions. Cover letters should include a standout opening, relevant skills and qualifications, and a strong finish with a call-to-action — all within one page and unique to each application.

It may be true that only 35% of recruiters admit that cover letters do not materially influence the hiring process for them , but that doesn't mean yours has to contribute to that statistic. In fact, it might be that cover letters are deemed insignificant because so few of them stand out. Here's an opportunity for you to exercise your creativity at the earliest stage of the recruitment process.

Personalization, after all, goes beyond replacing the title and company name in each letter you send to recruiters.

What’s on a cover letter?

Before you can get started writing your cover letter, there are a few components you must have.

Greeting: A simple, but pleasant greeting to address the recruiter or hiring manager.

Opener: Write a catchy introduction that explains why you’re interested in the role.

Summary of Skills/Qualifications: This is the heart of your cover letter. It outlines your relevant experience and why you’d be a great fit for the role. You can highlight special skills, experiences, professional achievements, or education to help make your case.

Closing: In this paragraph, provide a call-to-action by expressing interest in an interview. Provide your contact information and sign-off.

What does a cover letter look like?

In addition to showing off your skills and qualifications, cover letters give you the opportunity to present a clear, concise, and compelling writing sample that shows off your personality and ability to convey ideas. Check out our fillable examples below to see how you should organize the content of your cover letter.

Customizable Cover Letter Examples

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

1. Standard Cover Letter Example

cover letter examples: standard cover letter

This standard cover letter hits all the right notes: It includes a space to give a brief summary of your experience, as well as a space to delve in-depth into the specific responsibilities at your current role. You also have the chance to describe the challenges you’ve mastered at previous roles, showing that you’re capable of facing any problem that comes your way.

Why We Love It

We love this cover letter because it allows you to describe the high points of your career while still being professional, personalized, and succinct.

2. Data-Driven Cover Letter Sample

cover letter examples: data driven cover letter

Numbers are worth a million words — or that’s how the saying should probably go (if only we could include pictures in cover letters). Citing data and statistics about your achievements at your current company is an assured way to capture a hiring manager’s attention. Most hiring managers don’t read the entire letter, so a bulleted summary of your achievements can be a powerful way to increase the effectiveness and scannability of your message.

We love this cover letter because it’s adaptable to any role. Even if you don’t work in a data-centric role, you can include any enumerable achievement. If you’re in a creative industry, for instance, you can include the number of creative assets you designed for your current company.

3. Entry-Level Cover Letter Example

cover letter examples: entry-level cover letter

Download a Customizable Copy of This Cover Letter Example

Applying to your first job can be stress-inducing, to say the least. You can increase your chances of getting that first interview by including a cover letter that explains how your education can help you succeed in the role you applied for.

Look no further than this example from HubSpot. While other cover letter samples give experienced professionals the opportunity to share their experience at length, this one gives you the chance to describe your personal and professional attributes. You can then convey how you can leverage your knowledge to help your target company reach their goals.

We love this cover letter because it’s easy and simple to use for a student who has little experience in their target industry — including those who haven’t yet completed an internship.

Looking for more? Download the entire kit below.

5 Professional Cover Letter Templates

Fill out the form to access your templates., best cover letter examples.

What does a good cover letter look like in practice, and how can you make yours stand out? We found six examples from job seekers who decided to do things a bit differently.

Note: Some of these cover letters contain real company names and NSFW language that we've covered up.

1. The Cover Letter That Explains 'Why,' Not Just 'How'

We’ve already covered the importance of addressing how you’ll best execute a certain role in your cover letter. But there’s another question you might want to answer: Why the heck do you want to work here?

The Muse , a career guidance site, says that it’s often best to lead with the why — especially if it makes a good story. We advise against blathering on and on, but a brief tale that illuminates your desire to work for that particular employer can really make you stand out.

cover letter that explains "why" with a story about a childhood experience with the chicago cubs

Image Source

Here’s another instance of the power of personalization. The author of this cover letter clearly has a passion for this prospective employer — the Chicago Cubs — and if she’s lying about it, well, that probably would eventually be revealed in an interview.

Make sure your story is nonfiction and relatable according to each job. While we love a good tale of childhood baseball games, an introduction like this one probably wouldn’t be fitting in a cover letter for, say, a software company. But a story of how the hours you spent playing with DOS games as a kid led to your passion for coding? Sure, we’d find that fitting.

If you’re really passionate about a particular job opening, think about where that deep interest is rooted. Then, tell your hiring manager about it in a few sentences.

Why This Is A Great Cover Letter

This example demonstrates how effective personalization can be. The writer is passionate about the employer, drawing from her own childhood experience to communicate her enthusiasm.

2. The 'We're Meant for Each Other' Cover Letter

This cover letter example is a special one because it was submitted to us here at HubSpot. What does the letter do well? It makes a connection with us before we've even met the letter's author.

We're meant for each other cover letter submitted to HubSpot

"Content Marketing Certified" indicates the applicant has taken the content marketing certification course in our HubSpot Academy (you can take the same course here ). Our "records" indicate he/she did indeed give an interview with us before — and was a HubSpot customer.

The cover letter sang references to a relationship we didn't even know we had with the candidate.

The letter ends with a charming pitch for why, despite him/her not getting hired previously, our interests complement each other this time around.

(Yes, the applicant was hired).

This cover letter example does an excellent job of building rapport with the employer. Despite not getting hired for previous roles they applied for at HubSpot, the writer conveys exactly why they are right for this role.

3. The Cover Letter with H.E.A.R.T.

HubSpot has a lot of H.E.A.R.T. — Humble, Empathetic, Adaptable, Remarkable, Transparent. Our Culture Code is the foundation of the company's culture, the driving force behind our mission to help millions grow better , and serves as the scaffolding for our hiring practices. Recruiters at HubSpot look for applicants that demonstrate how they embody the Culture Code and job description, paying extra attention to cover letters that are super custom to HubSpot.

In another HubSpot submission, a HubSpot applicant writes about how she found out about HubSpot, why she likes the company, and how her professional experience aligns with H.E.A.R.T.

cover letter that details experience according to hubspot values: humble, empathy, adaptability, remarkable, and transparent.

HubSpot's recruiting team was impressed with her dedication to the company and how she went beyond what was asked for by linking her portfolio in her closing paragraph.

Featured Resource: 5 Free Cover Letter Templates

Download our collection of 5 professional cover letter templates to help you summarize your professional journey and land your dream job – whether it's at your first or fifth company.

Short Cover Letter Examples

4. the short-and-sweet cover letter.

In 2009, David Silverman penned an article for Harvard Business Review titled, “ The Best Cover Letter I Ever Received. ” That letter contained three complete sentences, as follows:

Short and sweet cover letter example with only three sentences

One might argue that this particular letter is less than outstanding. It’s brief, to say the least, and the author doesn’t go into a ton of detail about what makes him or her qualified for the job in question. But that’s what Silverman likes about it — the fact that the applicant only included the pieces of information that would matter the most to the recipient.

“The writer of this letter took the time to think through what would be relevant to me,” writes Silverman. “Instead of scattering lots of facts in hopes that one was relevant, the candidate offered up an opinion as to which experiences I should focus on.”

When you apply for a job, start by determining two things:

The key to this standout cover letter is research — by looking into who you’ll be reporting to and learning more about that person’s leadership style, you’ll be better prepared to tailor your cover letter to focus on how you provide solutions for them.

5. The Short Story

Basha Coleman began her cover letter with a short story. The goal of this short story is two-fold:

short cover letter example from basha coleman that starts with a short story about her existing experience with pepsi

You'll notice that her short story follows a typical narrative arc: It has a conflict/obstacle, a turning point, and a positive outcome, all created with a goal to emphasize a theme or point. In this case, Coleman is emphasizing her existing affinity with the brand and her triumphs within the program so that she can continue on her career path.

Like the second example in our list, this cover letter does an excellent job of conveying the applicant’s existing affinity for the brand. If you are applying to a company you love, don’t be shy about showing it and explaining why.

6. The Bare Bones Cover Letter

In today's job market, cover letters aren't always necessary. Even though many recruiters won't ask for or even read them, cover letters can still be effective and convey personality to a reader. Writing a strong cover letter can help you better convey your interest in the position and company.

This template from The Balance Careers puts together the essential components of a short cover letter: excitement about the position, your qualifications, and a call-to-action for the recruiter to follow up with you. Combining these central aspects in a well-written, compelling narrative will go a long way in convincing readers to hire you.

short cover letter example with summarized bullet points

This letter is organized and concise. The inclusion of bullet points to highlight key skills and help the recruiter skim the document is a nice touch.

7. The Breezy Follow-Up

In this cover letter, Amanda Edens is following the instructions the hiring manager gave by forwarding an email with resume and writing samples attached.

short cover letter example from Amanda Edens with bullet points and breezy language

Not only does Amanda provide links to relevant writing samples that are live on the web, but she also closes with a strong final paragraph that:

8. The Administrative Assistant Cover Letter

In this cover letter the candidate, Brenda, plays up her prior music industry experience to build a connection with Epic Music Group. If you have specific industry experience for the role you are applying for, be sure to highlight that.

Cover Letter Example: Admin Cover Letter

It’s clear that she’s passionate about not only the music industry, but Epic as a whole. She’s done so much research on the company that she knows what software programs they use, and happens to be proficient in it to help convey value to the hiring manager.

This example further illustrates the importance of research. Make sure you understand the culture of the company to which you’re applying before you send a completely unfiltered cover letter — if you don’t, there’s a good chance it’ll completely miss the mark.

In just three short paragraphs, the applicant uses their company research to drive home why they are the perfect fit for the role — emphasizing industry experience as well as software knowledge specific to the company. All of this communicates that she’d be able to start with very few hiccups getting up to speed.

9. The Internship Cover Letter

Maybe you’re just getting started in your career and looking to land the right internship to gain experience in your field. In this case, you’ll need to highlight more of your educational background and transferable skills since you won’t have as much professional experience to highlight.

Cover Letter Examples: Internship Cover Letter

The cover letter above is a great example of how to emphasize your skills and accomplishments when applying to internships or entry-level positions. A few things the applicant does well:

This cover letter example illustrates how you can leverage your education and background to get the gig even when you don’t have much working experience. Highlighting previous internships or experience in related fields can go a long way in convincing hiring managers you’re the perfect candidate for the role.

Creative Cover Letter Examples

10. the brutally honest cover letter.

Then, there are the occasions when your future boss might appreciate honesty — in its purest form. Livestream CEO Jesse Hertzberg, by his own admission, is one of those people, which might be why he called this example “ the best cover letter ” (which he received while he was with Squarespace):

As Hertzberg says in the blog post elaborating on this excerpt — it’s not appropriate for every job or company. But if you happen to be sure that the corporate culture of this prospective employer gets a kick out of a complete lack of filter, then there’s a chance that the hiring manager might appreciate your candor.

“Remember that I'm reading these all day long,” Hertzberg writes. “You need to quickly convince me I should keep reading. You need to stand out.”

The applicant did their research on the company’s culture and executed this cover letter flawlessly. It’s funny and shows off the applicant’s personality all while demonstrating why they are a good fit for the role.

11. The Pivot Cover Letter

Making a career switch? Your cover letter can be an excellent opportunity for you to explain the reasoning behind your career change and how your transferable skills qualify you for the role.

Cover Letter Example: Creative Pivot Cover Letter

Since the role she is applying for is more visual, it’s important to both show and tell why you’re a good fit.

This cover letter strikes the perfect balance between creativity and simplicity in design while putting the applicant's career change into context. The copy is clean, with a creative font choice that isn’t distracting from the content, but still demonstrates the applicant’s knack for design.

12. The Graphic Design Cover Letter

When applying for more creative roles, the design of your cover letter can say just as much as the words on the page. Take the graphic designer letter example below.

It’s got so much going for it:

In addition to the style elements, this example also doesn’t skimp on the key skills recruiters are looking for. Using metrics, the applicant demonstrates their value and why they would be a great fit.

This cover letter thoroughly conveys the applicant’s skills and qualifications using a variety of visual elements and by emphasizing their greatest achievements.

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

In today’s competitive landscape, it’s so easy to feel defeated, less-than-good-enough, or like giving up your job search. But don’t let the process become so monotonous. Have fun discovering the qualitative data we’ve discussed here — then, have even more by getting creative with your cover letter composition.

We certainly can’t guarantee that every prospective employer will respond positively — or at all — to even the most unique, compelling cover letter. But the one that’s right for you will. That’s why it’s important not to copy these examples . That defeats the purpose of personalization.

Editor's note: This post was originally published in October 2020 and has been updated for comprehensiveness.

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Cover letter templates

A cover letter is often your first communication with a potential employer, and therefore it is vital that when writing a cover letter you make it compelling and professional from the very first line, marking you out as a candidate they need to contact.

A good cover letter is an opportunity to showcase your written communication skills and your motivation for applying for the role. Writing a cover letter customised to the job demonstrates you have taken the time to put some effort into your application. You can also use a cover letter as an opportunity to highlight and provide more detail on any specific skills or experience which are relevant to the role you are applying for.

To help you structure your cover letter, we’ve developed 4 free cover letter templates and cover letter samples you can use to write a cover letter that will catch the eye of hiring managers and recruiters and increase your chances of getting an interview. For additional tips and advice on cover letter writing, check out our article How to write a cover letter .

Download our free cover letter templates

Cover letter template 1: response to a job ad, cover letter template 2: response to a job ad, cover letter template 3: letter to a recruiter on linkedin, cover letter template 4: ‘cold contact’ prospecting letter to a hiring manager.

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Examples of Cover Letters + Free Template and Easy Tips

Cover letters are an often overlooked part of the job-hunting process. Many of us think they're not necessary or that hiring managers don't read them. However, an eye-catching cover letter can make the difference between your job application going in the interview pile or the rejection pile. A well-written cover letter will entice a potential employer to take a closer look at your resume .

Take a look at the following examples of cover letters for a sense of how you can craft your own winner. And download the free template to help you get the formatting right.

Traditional Cover Letter

If you're submitting a printed copy of your cover letter, you should use the format of a traditional business letter . Don't forget to add a handwritten signature and note that you're enclosing a copy of your resume.

Example: School Teacher

In this first cover letter example, we have an experienced teacher applying to work at a local school:

Susana C. Smith 12345 Maple Lane Janesville, MA 55555 May 17, 2017 Angela Adams Janesville Consolidated Schools 54321 West Oak Avenue Janesville, MA 55555 Dear Ms. Adams: As an experienced elementary school teacher committed to developing lifelong inquisitive learners, I'm confident my skills and background align perfectly with the requirements of your recently advertised fourth-grade teaching position. Enclosed is my resume outlining my expertise in classroom management, curriculum planning, and teacher-parent relations. My credentials include a history of creating rigorous and relevant lesson plans in reading, mathematics, language, science, and social studies, incorporating both play and hands-on teaching. I'm also committed to building strong relationships with students and their families, as demonstrated by my past experience volunteering at PTO events throughout the school year and serving as a teacher liaison during the summer reading program at the North Oak Public Library. Thank you for your interest and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you again. Sincerely, [Handwritten Signature] Susana C. Smith Enclosure: Resume

With our first example under your belt, take a look at Writing a Creative Cover Letter . With these tips in mind, let's move on to the next example.

Example: Software Developer

Here's another example of a cover letter in a traditional format. This one is geared toward a career in IT. It begins with an objective (I'm interested in…), moves into related experience, and cites an example of what the applicant can do for the company.

Christopher L. Smith 12345 Maple Lane Janesville, MA 55555 May 17, 2017 Adam Masterson ABC Software 987 Birch Street Janesville, MA 55555 Dear Mr. Masterson: In my search for a new challenge where I can leverage my experience in project leadership, database administration, and solution architecture, I was pleased to find ABC Software's opening for a senior software development manager. Eager to learn more about this exciting opportunity, I have enclosed my resume for your review. As my career profile illustrates, I have specialized in enterprise-wide IT solutions and application development for the past six years. I am accustomed to the rigors of fast-paced, highly regulated environments requiring sharp attention to detail, consummate accuracy, and outstanding communication skills. In me, ABC Software will gain a diligent, goal-oriented professional with the agility, dedication, and focus required to successfully fill the role of senior software development manager. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, [Handwritten signature] Christopher L. Smith Enclosure: Resume

For more on the art of the resume, check out these Tips for Writing a Professional Resume .

Email Cover Letter

If you're submitting your cover letter in the body of an email, you don't need to include address information at the top or use the enclosure notation to indicate that your resume is attached to the message.

Example: Project Manager

While an email letter is more informal, you should still write your email in a professional tone .

Dear Mr. Morris, As an experienced leader in the field of marketing and project management, I'm eager to learn more about Jacobson & Jackson's open project manager position. Throughout my 15-year professional career, I've found my greatest successes have been in developing strategic partnerships, implementing innovative marketing strategies, and increasing company revenues. Accomplishments in my most recent position include managing a $2 million department budget, designing and executing a $300 million cause marketing partnership with the largest media and entertainment conglomerate in the world, and developing ongoing advertising partnerships with seven key industry leaders. I look forward to meeting with you to discuss your expectations for the project manager position and my ideas to energize the department. I will follow up with you shortly to answer any questions you may have. Sincerely, Marcus J. West

Example: Senior Manager

You'll notice a similar flow here: a statement or objective, a brief review of professional experience, and a statement of the applicant's unique ability to fill the role.

Dear Mr. Clark, With over 10 years of account management experience, I believe that I possess the passion, experience, and acumen to be successful in your recently advertised senior account management position. Throughout my career, I have been most proud of my ability to anticipate, identify, and meet customer needs. At my most recent employer, I developed strong relationships with C-levels and decision makers, as well as with end users. Additionally, I supervised a staff of 16 professionals and maintained a $900,000 annual budget. As someone who thrives in an entrepreneurial environment and is driven to continually exceed revenue targets, I wholeheartedly believe I am the perfect candidate for this opportunity with your company. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, William V. Jones

Tips for Writing a Winning Cover Letter

Let's review what we've seen. Writing a winning cover letter isn't difficult if you keep a few simple tips in mind.

To help you format your cover letter correctly, download the PDF below and use it as a template.

Example cover letter

Getting creative with your cover letter.

While silly jokes or informal slang are never appropriate in a cover letter, don't be afraid to show off your unique personality, especially if you're applying for a job in a creative industry, such as design or media.

A creative resume and cover letter that sets you apart from the pack is often just what you need to earn an interview for your dream job. And, when it's time to ace that interview, check out these Smart Questions to Ask in an Interview .

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A cover letter is often your first communication with a potential employer, and therefore it is vital that when writing a cover letter you make it
Examples of Cover Letters + Free Template and Easy Tips
And download the free template to help you get the formatting right. Traditional Cover Letter. If you're submitting a printed copy of your cover letter, you