good cover letter examples uk

11 Cover letter templates with examples

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

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

No need to panic, though.

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

CV templates 

Basic cover letter template

Dear [Recruiter’s name],

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

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

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

Kind regards,

[Name] [Phone number] [Email]

Basic cover letter example

Short cover letter template

Hi [Recruiter name],

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

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

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

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

Short cover letter example

Admin cover letter template

Good morning [Hiring Manager],

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

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

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

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

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

Admin cover letter example

Finance cover letter template

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

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

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

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

Finance cover letter example

Sales cover letter template

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

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

Sales cover letter example

Customer service cover letter template

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

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

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

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

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

Customer service cover letter example

Project management cover letter template

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

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

Project management cover letter example

Education cover letter template

I hope you’re well.

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

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

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

Education cover letter example

Internal promotion cover letter template

Hey [Recruiter name],

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

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

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

Internal promotion cover letter example

Student cover letter template

Good morning [Recruiter name],

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

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

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

Student cover letter example

No experience cover letter template

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

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

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

Thank you for considering my application.

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

No experience cover letter example

How to write a cover letter

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

Include your cover letter within the email or message

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

“But why?”, you ask.

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

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

Tailor your greeting by directly addressing the recruiter

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

Avoid sounding overly formal or informal, though.

For instance, you could address the recruiter using:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Be personable and professional

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

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

Go for a professional, friendly tone.

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

Pinpoint your applicable skills

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

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

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

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

For instance, you could say:

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

Conclude and add a professional signature

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Sample cover letter

Cover letters add context to your CV and when used correctly are a great way to convince employers that you're right for the job. This sample cover letter should help you get started

A cover letter demonstrates to recruiters how well you express yourself, so you need to make sure that you don't just repeat your CV or give rambling explanations. Instead, use this opportunity to focus on your skills and experience, saving your qualifications for your CV.

The basic cover letter structure covers:

• why you're writing the letter
• why you think you're suitable for the job (with examples)
• relevant skills and experience
• summary of your interest in the role.

Double check what you've written as spelling mistakes or lack of attention to detail will put your cover letter straight on the no pile.

Please be aware that this is an example. Use this cover letter template to help generate ideas and structure your own document but avoid copying and pasting. Your cover letter needs to be original and tailored to the job you're applying for.

Avril Lee 115 My Street Mytown WX55 1CQ [email protected] 07777999888

Harry Smith Graduate HR director Big Company Ltd Woodcotes Business Park The Midlands MX9 6PQ

5th May 2023

Dear Mr Smith

Re: Logistics graduate scheme

I would like to apply for the logistics track of your graduate training scheme, advertised on the Prospects.ac.uk website. As requested, I am enclosing my CV.

I am in the final year of my geography degree, expecting a 2:1. Always intending to have a career in business, I have taken modules on the geography of business and GIS modelling. My final-year dissertation is on changing patterns in retail. During my degree, I have developed my analytical skills and ability to read, manage and present data. I have also become familiar with a range of business intelligence sources.

As you can see from my CV I have experience in:

• Retail - moving from shelf stacker to checkout operator to team leader in my two years with Fresh Foods. I contributed to the store consistently being in the top five for the region by providing excellent customer service.
• Warehouse operations - picking and packing to meet targets over the busy Christmas period.

I have also:

• Worked in and led teams at Fresh Foods, on course projects and in sports.
• Communicated with colleagues at all levels in retail and warehousing.
• Solved problems as a team leader, ensuring staff cover and dealing with customer complaints.
• Worked flexibly doing both early and late shifts and covering for absence, sometimes at short notice.
• Managed my time when combining study with work and sport.

My semester in Germany exposed me to a different culture and improved my language skills. In addition, my voluntary work with young people has increased my resilience and ability to mix with people from all walks of life.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely

(Sign your name here)

Find out more

• Get more information on cover letters .
• If you're applying for a job that's not advertised take a look at an example speculative cover letter .
• Learn more about the 5 things to avoid when writing a cover letter .

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How to Write a Good Cover Letter

by Karien de Villiers

• Cover letter
• · July 05 2024
• · 7 min read

Table of contents

Like a good CV , a cover letter is an important part of a job application that offers further insight into your skills, experiences, and motivation for the role. A good cover letter should emphasise your fit for the position, showcase your understanding of the company, and express your enthusiasm for the job.

In this article, we cover:

What makes a good cover letter?

Cover letter sections.

Tips on how to write a cover letter.

Examples of good cover letters.

Let CVMaker guide you through the CV writing process, offering a professional first CV template to highlight your strengths.

Land more interviews with a good cover letter

A good cover letter is essential to a strong job application, providing additional details about your skills, experiences, and motivation for the role.

Clear structure : Maintain a well-organised format that is easy to follow. This applies to both letters of interest and shorter cover letters.

Tailored content : Customise the content to highlight your suitability for the specific position and company.

Professional tone : Use a professional and positive tone throughout the letter.

Key sections of a good cover letter

By following this cover letter structure and ensuring your cover letter is tailored to the specific job and company, you can create a strong application.

5 tips for how to write a cover letter

A well-structured cover letter is essential. By following the tips below, you can enhance your chances of securing more interviews.

1. Tailor your cover letter to the job

Customise your cover letter for each application to align with the specific requirements and responsibilities of the position. Address the company by name and, if possible, the hiring manager personally to show genuine interest.

Care assistant cover letter example:

Dear Hiring Manager, I am writing to express my interest in the Team Lead position at Special Care Group, which I found listed on your website. Currently employed as a care assistant, I am actively pursuing opportunities within this location following my relocation to Scotland. As a dedicated care assistant, I have honed my abilities in effectively communicating with patients, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, and implementing personalised care plans. My leadership style is guiding and supporting individuals to achieve personal and professional growth, fostering a sense of community within the caregiving team. In my past positions as a Care Assistant, I have consistently showcased my dedication to delivering compassionate and top-notch care to individuals, cultivating a positive and supportive atmosphere. My proficiency in mental health and elderly care positions me well to cater to the distinct needs of each person, fostering their well-being and elevating their quality of life. I am eager to explore how my skills and experiences can positively impact the success of Special Care Group.   Thank you for reviewing my application. I anticipate the opportunity for an interview to delve deeper into how my background aligns with the requirements of your organisation. Sincerely, Emma Thompson Attached: CV & references

For the full CV writing guide, check out the care assistant cover letter example.

Retail cover letter example:

Dear Hiring Manager, I am writing to express my strong interest in the Retail Store Manager position at H&M. With a proven track record in retail management and a passion for driving success; I believe I would be a valuable addition to your team. My background in retail management spans over five years, including my most recent role as a Retail Store Manager at Ralph Lauren. During my tenure, I honed my skills in leadership, sales, and customer service, which I am confident can directly benefit H&M. Having progressed through a series of roles and responsibilities; my experience has equipped me with the ability to navigate high-pressure and fast-paced environments while consistently delivering positive results. I take pride in my sales techniques and am known for inspiring and motivating colleagues to maximise their performance. I am committed to fostering a customer-centric approach and driving the store's growth. With a keen eye for detail and a dedication to excellence, I am confident I can meet and exceed your expectations in this role. H&M's mission and values resonate with my professional goals, making this opportunity exciting. I am confident that my communication skills, attention to detail, and resultsoriented mindset will contribute to the continued success of your company. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to hearing back from you! Sincerely, William Evans Attached: CV and references

Are you a student seeking a part-time job? Explore the guides below or discover the best jobs for students.

Retail cover letter.

Student cover letter.

Graduate cover letter.

2. Showcase your achievements

Use specific examples to demonstrate your accomplishments and skills. Quantify achievements to provide concrete evidence of your impact. For additional examples and guides on writing cover letters, refer to the following:

1. Engineer:

In my previous role as a Software Developer , I developed an automated testing framework that reduced the time spent on manual testing by 50%, which significantly improved the team's efficiency and product release timelines.

As a Civil Engineer , I managed a construction project that was completed three months ahead of schedule and 10% under budget, resulting in substantial savings for the client.

2. Accountant:

In my role as a Senior Accountant, I implemented a new accounting software system that streamlined our financial reporting process, reducing the time required to generate monthly reports by 30%.

As a Tax Accountant, I identified tax savings opportunities for clients, resulting in a cumulative tax savings of £200,000 over two years.

3. Architect:

While working as an Architect , I led the design of a sustainable office building that achieved LEED Platinum certification, which reduced the building's energy consumption by 25%.

As a Landscape Architect, I designed a public park that increased community engagement and was recognised with a national award for innovative design.

4. Marketing Manager:

As a Marketing Manager, I launched a social media campaign that increased our brand's online engagement by 60% and led to a 25% increase in sales over six months.

In my previous role, I developed and executed a content strategy that boosted website traffic by 40% and generated an additional £500,000 in annual revenue.

5. Project Manager:

As a Project Manager , I successfully led a cross-functional team to complete a £2 million project on time and within budget, resulting in a 15% profit margin increase for the company.

In my role, I implemented a new project management software that improved team collaboration and reduced project completion time by 20%.

6. Human Resources Manager:

As a Human Resources Manager, I developed a talent acquisition strategy that reduced the average hiring time by 25% and improved employee retention rates by 15%.

In my previous role, I introduced an employee wellness program that led to a 20% reduction in absenteeism and increased overall employee satisfaction.

7. Data Analyst:

In my position as a Data Analyst, I created a dashboard that provided real-time insights, reducing the decision-making time by 35% and enabling more strategic business actions.

As a Data Scientist, I developed a predictive model that improved customer retention rates by 18%, directly contributing to a 10% increase in revenue.

8. Teacher:

As a high school Math Teacher , I introduced a new curriculum that improved student test scores by 20% and increased overall class engagement.

In my role, I led an after-school tutoring program that helped struggling students improve their grades by an average of one letter grade.

9. Customer Service Manager:

As a Customer Service Manager, I implemented a new customer feedback system that reduced response times by 50% and increased customer satisfaction scores by 30%.

In my previous role, I trained a team that improved first-call resolution rates by 15%, leading to a significant increase in customer loyalty.

10. Sales Manager:

As a Sales Manager, I developed a new sales training program that boosted team productivity by 25% and increased quarterly sales by £1 million.

In my previous role, I led a team that expanded our client base by 20%, resulting in a 30% increase in annual revenue.

If you have no experience , refer to how to write a cover letter with no experience.

Customise one of our cover letter examples

3. keep it concise.

A good cover letter is typically one page long. Be concise and focus on the most relevant information, avoiding unnecessary details or overly complex language. For more information, refer to how to write a short cover letter.

With over five years of experience in project management, I have consistently delivered projects on time and within budget, leveraging my strong organisational skills and attention to detail.

4. Use a professional tone

Maintain a professional yet friendly tone in your cover letter. Avoid jargon or overly formal language, and proofread carefully to ensure it is error-free and reflects your communication skills.

I am confident that my background in customer service, combined with my dedication to delivering exceptional experiences, aligns perfectly with the customer-focused culture at Creative Sparks.

5. End with a strong closing

Summarise your key points and express your eagerness to discuss how your skills and experiences align with the job. Include a call to action, such as requesting an interview or a follow-up meeting.

For additional tips and examples, take inspiration from guides on how to end a cover letter, or explore our extensive collection of cover letter examples.

Key takeaways

A good cover letter is tailored, concise, professional, and highlights your achievements. Customise each letter to the specific job and company. Provide concrete examples of your skills and accomplishments. Maintain a professional tone and end with a strong conclusion.

Next steps?

Refine your CV effortlessly using our user-friendly builder, which offers a diverse array of templates. For impeccable results, consider our professional CV Writing Service . Utilise our CV examples to save time, emphasise important sections, and help hiring managers grasp your distinctive professional strengths more easily.

What is in a good cover letter?

A good cover letter includes a tailored introduction, highlights of your relevant skills and experiences, specific achievements, and a strong conclusion.

What is a good cover letter format?

A good cover letter format includes your contact information, the employer’s contact information, a personalised salutation, an engaging introduction, a body with relevant details, and a strong closing.

What is the ideal length of a good cover letter?

The ideal length of a good cover letter is one page, typically 250-400 words. Refer to our guide on cover letter length for more information.

What makes a good cover letter intro?

A good cover letter intro grabs the employer's attention by mentioning the job you are applying for, where you found the job listing, and a brief statement about why you are interested and qualified. Refer to how to start a cover letter for more tips.

Do employers read cover letters in the UK?

Yes, many employers in the UK read cover letters as they provide additional context about the candidate’s skills and motivations. Although practices may vary depending on the employer.

What is an example of a good covering letter?

An example of a good covering letter includes a tailored introduction, specific achievements relevant to the job, a professional tone, and a strong closing that calls for further action, such as an interview . Examples are provided in the sections above for various job roles.

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Updated July 05 2024

Karien has established herself as a leading figure in the career services industry, crafting over 800 professional documents and assisting job seekers globally with reviews such as "I'd hire me". Renowned for her expertise, she continues to empower individuals, specialising in creating resources to aid job seekers in securing employment and staying ahead in the ever-evolving job market. Start here today!

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Cover letter example to copy & paste

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

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

Dear Mr. Smith,

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

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

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

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

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

Clara Forbes

Our best sample cover letters

Check out our most popular cover letter samples below.

1. Care Assistant cover letter example

Care assistants play a vital role, enabling clients to live their lives to the fullest. Looking for your next opportunity in this critical field? Read on to discover how to write an excellent cover letter and land your next job.

2. Support Worker cover letter example

Support workers are critical to any care setting. There is so much to talk about in a support worker cover letter, so where do you start? Read our guide to find out.

3. PHD cover letter example

You will have so much to say about why you want to do your PhD. Distilling your motivations and academic achievements into a compelling PhD cover letter is challenging.

4. Accountant cover letter example

Show your value as an accountant by crafting a compelling cover letter that details your skills, experience, and enthusiasm. Use this guide and our accountant cover letter examples to get started.

5. NHS cover letter example

Over 80% of NHS staff believe their work makes a difference. However, if you want to pursue a career that has meaning in the NHS, you’ll need to communicate why you could make a positive difference in this role. One of the best ways to do this is with a compelling NHS cover letter. Here’s how to write one that works for you.

6. Barista cover letter example

Baristas are part artist and part best-friend for many regulars. Your barista cover letter should outline how you go about providing your coffee experience.

7. Sales assistant cover letter example

Use this Sales Assistant cover letter example to finish your application and get hired fast – no frustration, no guesswork. This cover letter example is specifically designed for Sales Assistant positions in 2024. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.

Perfect cover letter structure

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

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

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

What makes a good cover letter example

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

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

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

Cover letter examples FAQs

What to write in a cover letter .

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

How do you start a cover letter?

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

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

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

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

How long should a cover letter be?

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

What are common cover letter phrases?

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

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

What words should not be used in a cover letter?

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

What does an employer look for in a cover letter?

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

What is a simple example of a cover letter?

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

Here are some of our favourite simple cover letter examples:  

1. Internship cover letter example

It’s time to experience to your education. A convincing and well-organised internship cover letter will help get you there. Take advantage of this guide and simply fill in your completed text into a template, download and start applying!

2. Marketing cover letter example

You're already a pro marketer — but can you sell yourself? Crafting an engaging marketing cover letter could help you get hired faster. Read our expert-backed guide and showcase your skills now.

3. Student cover letter example

When you’re a student you may not have a wealth of work experience under your belt. However, as a budding professional you have more to offer than you may think. A well-written cover letter is the ideal way to express that. Here’s how

Free professionally designed templates

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How to write a cover letter.

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

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

When to include a cover letter

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

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

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

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

Send it to the right person

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

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

If you do not know their name

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

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

Introduction

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

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

Show you're right for the job

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

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

Give extra information

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

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

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

Ending your cover letter

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

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

Yours sincerely or yours faithfully

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

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

Tips for writing a cover letter

When writing your cover letter, remember to:

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

Related content

How to write a CV

Completing application forms

Interview tips

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