cover letter outline 2022

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How to write a great cover letter in 2024: tips and structure

A cover letter is a personalized letter that introduces you to a potential employer, highlights your qualifications, and explains why you're a strong fit for a specific job.

Hate or love them, these brief documents allow job seekers to make an impression and stand out from the pile of other applications. Penning a thoughtful cover letter shows the hiring team you care about earning the position.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to write a cover letter — and a great one, at that.

What is a cover letter and why does it matter?

A professional cover letter is a one-page document you submit alongside your CV or resume as part of a job application. Typically, they’re about half a page or around 150–300 words.

An effective cover letter doesn’t just rehash your CV; it’s your chance to highlight your proudest moments, explain why you want the job, and state plainly what you bring to the table.

Show the reviewer you’re likable, talented, and will add to the company’s culture . You can refer to previous jobs and other information from your CV, but only if it helps tell a story about you and your career choices .

What 3 things should you include in a cover letter?

A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out to potential employers. To make your cover letter shine, here are three key elements to include:

1. Personalization

Address the hiring manager or recruiter by name whenever possible. If the job posting doesn't include a name, research to find out who will be reviewing applications. Personalizing your cover letter shows that you've taken the time to tailor your application to the specific company and role.

2. Highlight relevant achievements and skills

Emphasize your most relevant skills , experiences, and accomplishments that directly relate to the job you're applying for. Provide specific examples of how your skills have benefited previous employers and how they can contribute to the prospective employer's success. Use quantifiable achievements , such as improved efficiency, cost savings, or project success, to demonstrate your impact.

3. Show enthusiasm and fit

Express your enthusiasm for the company and the position you're applying for. Explain why you are interested in this role and believe you are a good fit for the organization. Mention how your values, goals, and skills align with the company's mission and culture. Demonstrating that you've done your research can make a significant impression.

What do hiring managers look for in a cover letter?

Employers look for several key elements in a cover letter. These include:

Employers want to see that your cover letter is specifically tailored to the position you are applying for. It should demonstrate how your skills, experiences, and qualifications align with the job requirements.

Clear and concise writing

A well-written cover letter is concise, easy to read, and error-free. Employers appreciate clear and effective communication skills , so make sure your cover letter showcases your ability to express yourself effectively.

Demonstrated knowledge of the company

Employers want to see that you are genuinely interested in their organization. Mention specific details about the company, such as recent achievements or projects, to show that you are enthusiastic about joining their team.

Achievements and accomplishments

Highlight your relevant achievements and accomplishments that demonstrate your qualifications for the position. Use specific examples to showcase your skills and show how they can benefit the employer.

Enthusiasm and motivation

Employers want to hire candidates who are excited about the opportunity and motivated to contribute to the company's success. Express your enthusiasm and passion for the role and explain why you are interested in working for the company.

Professionalism

A cover letter should be professional in tone and presentation. Use formal language, address the hiring manager appropriately, and follow standard business letter formatting.

How do you structure a cover letter?

A well-structured cover letter follows a specific format that makes it easy for the reader to understand your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position. Here's a typical structure for a cover letter:

Contact information

Include your name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of the letter. Place your contact information at the beginning so that it's easy for the employer to reach you.

Employer's contact information

Opening paragraph, middle paragraph(s), closing paragraph, complimentary close, additional contact information.

Repeat your contact information (name, phone number, and email) at the end of the letter, just in case the employer needs it for quick reference.

Remember to keep your cover letter concise and focused. It should typically be no more than one page in length. Proofread your letter carefully to ensure it is free from spelling and grammatical errors. Tailor each cover letter to the specific job application to make it as relevant and impactful as possible.

How to write a good cover letter (with examples)

The best letters are unique, tailored to the job description, and written in your voice — but that doesn’t mean you can’t use a job cover letter template.

Great cover letters contain the same basic elements and flow a certain way. Take a look at this cover letter structure for ref erence while you construct your own.

1. Add a header and contact information

While reading your cover letter, the recruiter shouldn’t have to look far to find who wrote it. Your document should include a basic heading with the following information:

• Pronouns (optional)
• Location (optional)
• Email address
• Phone number (optional)
• Relevant links, such as your LinkedIn profile , portfolio, or personal website (optional)

You can pull this information directly from your CV. Put it together, and it will look something like this:

Christopher Pike

San Francisco, California

[email protected]

Alternatively, if the posting asks you to submit your cover letter in the body of an email, you can include this information in your signature. For example:

Warm regards,

Catherine Janeway

Bloomington, Indiana

[email protected]

(555) 999 - 2222

2. Include a personal greeting

Always begin your cover letter by addressing the hiring manager — preferably by name. You can use the person’s first and last name. Make sure to include a relevant title, like Dr., Mr., or Ms. For example, “Dear Mr. John Doe.”

Avoid generic openings like “To whom it may concern,” “Dear sir or madam,” or “Dear hiring manager.” These introductions sound impersonal — like you’re copy-pasting cover letters — and can work against you in the hiring process.

Be careful, though. When using someone’s name, you don’t want to use the wrong title or accidentally misgender someone. If in doubt, using only their name is enough. You could also opt for a gender-neutral title, like Mx.

Make sure you’re addressing the right person in your letter — ideally, the person who’s making the final hiring decision. This isn’t always specified in the job posting, so you may have to do some research to learn the name of the hiring manager.

3. Draw them in with an opening story

The opening paragraph of your cover letter should hook the reader. You want it to be memorable, conversational, and extremely relevant to the job you’re pursuing. 

There’s no need for a personal introduction — you’ve already included your name in the heading. But you should make reference to the job you’re applying for. A simple “Thank you for considering my application for the role of [job title] at [company],” will suffice.

Then you can get into the “Why” of your job application. Drive home what makes this specific job and this company so appealing to you. Perhaps you’re a fan of their products, you’re passionate about their mission, or you love their brand voice. Whatever the case, this section is where you share your enthusiasm for the role.

Here’s an example opening paragraph. In this scenario, you’re applying for a digital marketing role at a bicycle company:

“Dear Mr. John Doe,

Thank you for considering my application for the role of Marketing Coordinator at Bits n’ Bikes.

My parents bought my first bike at one of your stores. I’ll never forget the freedom I felt when I learned to ride it. My father removed my training wheels, and my mom sent me barrelling down the street. You provide joy to families across the country — and I want to be part of that.”

4. Emphasize why you’re best for the job

Your next paragraphs should be focused on the role you’re applying to. Highlight your skill set and why you’re a good fit for the needs and expectations associated with the position. Hiring managers want to know what you’ll bring to the job, not just any role.

Start by studying the job description for hints. What problem are they trying to solve with this hire? What skills and qualifications do they mention first or more than once? These are indicators of what’s important to the hiring manager.

Search for details that match your experience and interests. For example, if you’re excited about a fast-paced job in public relations, you might look for these elements in a posting:

• They want someone who can write social media posts and blog content on tight deadlines
• They value collaboration and input from every team member
• They need a planner who can come up with strong PR strategies

Highlight how you fulfill these requirements:

“I’ve always been a strong writer. From blog posts to social media, my content pulls in readers and drives traffic to product pages. For example, when I worked at Bits n’ Bikes, I developed a strategic blog series about bike maintenance that increased our sales of spare parts and tools by 50% — we could see it in our web metrics.

Thanks to the input of all of our team members, including our bike mechanics, my content delivered results.”

5. End with a strong closing paragraph and sign off gracefully

Your closing paragraph is your final chance to hammer home your enthusiasm about the role and your unique ability to fill it. Reiterate the main points you explained in the body paragraphs and remind the reader of what you bring to the table.

You can also use the end of your letter to relay other important details, like whether you’re willing to relocate for the job.

When choosing a sign-off, opt for a phrase that sounds professional and genuine. Reliable options include “Sincerely” and “Kind regards.”

Here’s a strong closing statement for you to consider:

“I believe my enthusiasm, skills, and work experience as a PR professional will serve Bits n’ Bikes very well. I would love to meet to further discuss my value-add as your next Director of Public Relations. Thank you for your consideration. I hope we speak soon.

Tips to write a great cover letter that compliments your resume

When writing your own letter, try not to copy the example excerpts word-for-word. Instead, use this cover letter structure as a baseline to organize your ideas. Then, as you’re writing, use these extra cover letter tips to add your personal touch:

• Keep your cover letter different from your resume : Your cover letter should not duplicate the information on your resume. Instead, it should provide context and explanations for key points in your resume, emphasizing how your qualifications match the specific job you're applying for.
• Customize your cover letter . Tailor your cover letter for each job application. Address the specific needs of the company and the job posting, demonstrating that you've done your homework and understand their requirements.
• Show enthusiasm and fit . Express your enthusiasm for the company and position in the cover letter. Explain why you are interested in working for this company and how your values, goals, and skills align with their mission and culture.
• Use keywords . Incorporate keywords from the job description and industry terms in your cover letter. This can help your application pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and demonstrate that you're well-versed in the field.
• Keep it concise . Your cover letter should be succinct and to the point, typically no more than one page. Focus on the most compelling qualifications and experiences that directly support your application.
• Be professional . Maintain a professional tone and structure in your cover letter. Proofread it carefully to ensure there are no errors.
• Address any gaps or concerns . If there are gaps or concerns in your resume, such as employment gaps or a change in career direction, briefly address them in your cover letter. Explain any relevant circumstances and how they have shaped your qualifications and determination.
• Provide a call to action . Conclude your cover letter with a call to action, inviting the employer to contact you for further discussion. Mention that you've attached your resume for their reference.
• Follow the correct format . Use a standard cover letter format like the one above, including your contact information, a formal salutation, introductory and closing paragraphs, and your signature. Ensure that it complements your resume without redundancy.
• Pick the right voice and tone . Try to write like yourself, but adapt to the tone and voice of the company. Look at the job listing, company website, and social media posts. Do they sound fun and quirky, stoic and professional, or somewhere in-between? This guides your writing style.
• Tell your story . You’re an individual with unique expertise, motivators, and years of experience. Tie the pieces together with a great story. Introduce how you arrived at this point in your career, where you hope to go , and how this prospective company fits in your journey. You can also explain any career changes in your resume.
• Show, don’t tell . Anyone can say they’re a problem solver. Why should a recruiter take their word for it if they don’t back it up with examples? Instead of naming your skills, show them in action. Describe situations where you rose to the task, and quantify your success when you can.
• Be honest . Avoid highlighting skills you don’t have. This will backfire if they ask you about them in an interview. Instead, shift focus to the ways in which you stand out.
• Avoid clichés and bullet points . These are signs of lazy writing. Do your best to be original from the first paragraph to the final one. This highlights your individuality and demonstrates the care you put into the letter.
• Proofread . Always spellcheck your cover letter. Look for typos, grammatical errors, and proper flow. We suggest reading it out loud. If it sounds natural rolling off the tongue, it will read naturally as well.

Common cover letter writing FAQs

How long should a cover letter be.

A cover letter should generally be concise and to the point. It is recommended to keep it to one page or less, focusing on the most relevant information that highlights your qualifications and fits the job requirements.

Should I include personal information in a cover letter?

While it's important to introduce yourself and provide your contact information, avoid including personal details such as your age, marital status, or unrelated hobbies. Instead, focus on presenting your professional qualifications and aligning them with the job requirements.

Can I use the same cover letter for multiple job applications?

While it may be tempting to reuse a cover letter, it is best to tailor each cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. This allows you to highlight why you are a good fit for that particular role and show genuine interest in the company.

Do I need to address my cover letter to a specific person?

Whenever possible, it is advisable to address your cover letter to a specific person, such as the hiring manager or recruiter. If the job posting does not provide this information, try to research and find the appropriate contact. If all else fails, you can use a generic salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager."

Should I include references in my cover letter?

It is generally not necessary to include references in your cover letter. Save this information for when the employer explicitly requests it. Instead, focus on showcasing your qualifications and achievements that make you a strong candidate for the position.

It’s time to start writing your stand-out cover letter

The hardest part of writing is getting started. 

Hopefully, our tips gave you some jumping-off points and confidence . But if you’re really stuck, looking at cover letter examples and resume templates will help you decide where to get started. 

There are numerous sample cover letters available online. Just remember that you’re a unique, well-rounded person, and your cover letter should reflect that. Using our structure, you can tell your story while highlighting your passion for the role. 

Doing your research, including strong examples of your skills, and being courteous is how to write a strong cover letter. Take a breath , flex your fingers, and get typing. Before you know it, your job search will lead to a job interview.

If you want more personalized guidance, a specialized career coach can help review, edit, and guide you through creating a great cover letter that sticks.

Ace your job search

Explore effective job search techniques, interview strategies, and ways to overcome job-related challenges. Our coaches specialize in helping you land your dream job.

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

3 cover letter examples to help you catch a hiring manager’s attention

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Home Cover Letter Help Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Format: How to Format a Professional Cover Letter

Knowing how to write a cover letter will only get you so far. Specifically, you also need to know how to format a cover letter .

How you personally format your cover letter says a lot about you, your professionalism, and ultimately what kind of employee you will be. Your cover letter format could mean the difference between landing that interview, and having your application tossed into the trash.

With this in mind, let’s get into the specifics on proper cover letter formatting .

If you need additional help, have a look at our cover letter templates or cover letter examples for inspiration when completing your application.

• Cover Letter Heading
• Cover Letter Salutation
• Letter Body
• How to End a Cover Letter
• Cover Letter Layout & Aesthetics
• Cover Letter Format for Emails
• Cover Letter Format Example
• Free Cover Letter Templates

1. Cover Letter Heading

Your cover letter heading is where you provide basic information about yourself to the hiring manager. In a simple cover letter, this information will be displayed somewhere toward the top of the document in plain text.

Alternatively, many creative and modern cover letter templates feature graphics and icons in the headers with various fonts and colors.

Below we’ve outlined the absolute must-haves for your heading:

Contact Information

Regardless of the template you use, your cover letter header should include the following personal information:

• Name : your full name should be displayed prominently at the top of your cover letter in a large font size.
• Address : traditionally, job applicants would provide their full home address. However, in 2022, simply listing your city and state is enough for most hiring managers.
• Phone number : include your full phone number, along with your country/area code, if applicable.
• Email address : a professional email address, such as [email protected], is an absolute must for your cover letter.
• LinkedIn profile : LinkedIn has become a huge part of the hiring process, so it’s important that you include a link to your profile.
• Job title : although not a necessity, including your current job title (when applicable) tends to exude an air of professionalism to prospective employers.

Once you’ve entered the information above into your cover letter heading, it should look something like this:

Date & Employer Contact Information

It’s an artefact of the days when applicants would actually mail their cover letter to prospective employers, but including the date and employer contact information at the top of your cover letter is still common practice.

Include the following pieces of information directly below the header, left-aligned, and toward the top:

• Application date
• Hiring manager’s name
• Company name
• Company street address
• Company city, state, and ZIP code

Be sure to add a line break (aka some space) between the application date and the hiring manager’s name.

If you’re feeling edgy or extra-contemporary, you can omit the employer’s address and name, adding simply the application date, followed by a simple greeting for the hiring manager.

2. Cover Letter Salutation

Ideally, you should address your cover letter directly to the hiring manager of the position you’re applying for by name. You can usually find their name in the job description or on the company website. If you can’t find it, don’t panic – try calling the company and asking for the hiring manager’s name.

If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, you’ll need to use a professional, generic greeting, such as:

• Dear Hiring Manager
• Dear Accounting Department
• Dear Accounting Team
• To Whom It May Concern

Many career websites these days advise against using “To Whom It May Concern” to address a cover letter, but the reality is that hiring managers are too busy to worry about your greeting. Any of the above generic greetings is perfectly acceptable and professional.

3. Letter Body

The body of your cover letter should consist of only three paragraphs: the intro, the hard sell, and the call to action (CTA).

Cover Letter Intro

Knowing how to start a cover letter is an essential part of any job application. The opening paragraph of your cover letter, which we call the intro, should do the following:

• Get the hiring manager’s attention
• Introduce yourself
• Specify the position you’re applying for
• Describe where you found out about the job opening
• Touch on why you’re the ideal candidate for the role

Additionally, if you’re writing a cover letter with no experience , your intro should also include a sentence about why you’re passionate about the position.

Check out how our candidate wrote a simple, yet effective intro paragraph in the example below.

Cover Letter Intro Paragraph Example:

If you’ve been referred to the role by a current employee of the prospective company, or a mutual contact of the hiring manager, be sure to mention it in the first paragraph of your cover letter. A strong referral can help you get the opportunity for an interview, so it’s important to disclose this information early on.

The second paragraph is where you’ll sell yourself to the hiring manager, delving into your experience, accomplishments, skills and qualifications. Use the experience and requirements listed in the job posting to tailor this section to align with what the company is looking for.

The hiring manager will have already reviewed your resume, so don’t waste their time repeating information. Instead, connect the accomplishments and qualifications on your resume to the goals of the company.

Take a look at how the candidate below artfully sells their relevant skills and experience.

Cover Letter Hard Sell Paragraph Example:

Research Paragraph

If you really want to impress the hiring manager, do some research into your potential employer, the current state of their industry, the company’s position in the market, and if possible, their future plans. You can add a short paragraph after the hard sell which details how you’ll fit into their game plan. Use this opportunity to explain how your involvement will propel the company forward and contribute toward their future goals.

The last paragraph, which we call the CTA, is where you’ll tie everything you want to say together with a strong conclusion that does the following:

• Thanks the hiring manager for their consideration of your application.
• Restates your most important contact information, for example, your phone number and email address.
• Briefly reiterates what makes you the best candidate for the position.
• Provides a compelling call-to-action – a line that prompts the hiring manager to send you a meeting invitation for an interview.

Check out the below candidate’s professional cover letter closing paragraph.

Cover Letter CTA Paragraph Example:

A strong CTA section will leave a last impression of you in the hiring manager’s mind, so be sure to spend time on it and craft something that expresses the message you want to get across.

4. How to End a Cover Letter

The last part of a good cover letter is the closing (valediction or sign-off). It’s where you have the opportunity to sign off on the cover letter and say farewell to the hiring manager.

If you are just entering the job market and have little to no experience to elaborate on in your cover letter, you could write a shorter one (less than 150 words), but you’ll have to take extra care to ensure it’s polished and reads well.

6. Cover Letter Format for Emails

Most (it not all) cover letters these days are sent digitally – either via email or submitted to a company’s hiring software platform.

If you’re able to submit your cover letter using an upload button or a file attachment, there’s no need to make any changes to your document – it will be viewed the way you’ve intended.

However, if have to send your cover letter in the body of an email (i.e., not as an attachment), you’ll need to make the following changes to your letter:

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Crafting a great cover letter can set your application apart and help you get your foot in the door. But where to start? We've got tips, templates, and examples to get you going—from great opening lines to real samples that actually worked.

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Cover Letter Outline (With Examples)

Table of Contents

A cover letter is a simple communication explaining why you, out of all the applicants available, are the best pick for the job. Every company doesn’t require cover letters, but they represent the skills and background experience that help you stand out from the crowd.  Before putting the digital pen to paper for your cover letter outline, it’s crucial to understand proper cover letter formatting and etiquette to ensure you set the right tone. 

Begin by choosing traditional, commonly accepted professional fonts such as Calibri or Arial, and set your font size between 10 and 12. 

Every paragraph on your cover letter should be left-aligned and double-spaced. A spacing of 1 – 1.15 between lines is traditional, and lastly, the margins should be spaced 1 inch on both sides. 

Most of these settings, except the spacing, are default settings on Microsoft Word. Make sure to keep your cover letter outline in PDF format to preserve the professional layout you’ve created.

Another critical step before you sit down to write your letter is to craft a cover letter outline. Doing so allows you to structure your points—namely, why you’re a perfect candidate—throughout your paragraphs to engage the hiring manager. 

Over time, the structure has become standardized to match the following cover letter outline template:

• A header with contact information and the date
• A customary greeting
• An opening, middle, and closing paragraph
• A complimentary close and signature

A well-structured, logically progressing cover letter outline signals professionalism and level-headedness to the reader and demonstrates that you have put thought and effort into your work to make your cover letter outline stand out among other applicants.

Writing Your Cover Letter

First, begin with a header that provides relevant contact information: 

Street Address

City, State ZIP

Month Day, Year

Employer Name

An appropriate greeting will follow this:

Dear Mr./Ms. (name): 

Ultimately, the body of your cover letter is the crux of your argument and the main contributor to your likelihood of success. Your goal is to persuade the person reading your letter that you have the skills, experience, and passion for filling the role they are missing. 

Generally, the first paragraph should  hook  the reader’s interest while showcasing your knowledge of the company, why the job interests you, and how you learned about the opportunity. 

The second paragraph handles your background and qualifications, referring the employer to your enclosed resume. 

The concluding paragraph summarizes the first two paragraphs, expanding your skills and knowledge while reiterating the finer points. It should explain how your capability meets the company’s needs for the particular job.  

Stand out; don’t stand aside. Toot your own horn a little regarding your interest in the company’s work, your ethical standards, and any prior achievements you’re proud of to set yourself apart from the other entries. 

For best results, consider following the method of the four P’s: prime, promote, persuade, and proofread.

The first and most crucial step in getting a potential employer to take your cover letter seriously is to engage them with a hook and prime them to form a positive initial impression of you. 

It’s too easy for hiring managers, who spend too long staring at similarly-formatted pieces of paper, to gloss over your cover letter and not give you a second thought. 

It’s not their fault; if you’ve ever read a long wall of uninteresting text, you know the feeling. That’s why it’s crucial to hook your reader immediately so that the reviewer pays attention to what you have to say rather than casually glancing over.

One of the simplest ways to catch the reader’s attention is to include the name of the person you are writing to. 

“Dear Mr. Davis,

As an experienced writer with a range of experience in technical and analytical writing, I’m thrilled to apply for your technical writing position at Fluid Solutions.”

If you don’t know who that is, address the hiring department. Demonstrating that you’ve done a little digging to correctly reference your potential future employer goes a long way to creating a positive impression.

Based on the development of your cover letter outline, the following line in your writing should be a hook. Tout a particular skill you’ve developed, tell a story of how you contributed to solving a problem in a prior workplace. 

For example:

“I interact well with people, and those social skills benefit me when it comes to resolving problems. As a teacher at X, I had a parent come into the office furious over his child’s grades. Before I went into the conference room, a coworker warned me that he was ‘really mad.’ To her surprise, when we emerged from the room, he was laughing and shaking my hand.”

When considering the scope of your achievements, “. . . find three things about yourself that you want to highlight. Focus all of your communication on those three elements.”  (   The Guardian

Ask yourself the following questions and craft a 1-2-line response:

• What distinguishes me from other applicants?
• What interpersonal skills have I developed in my work experience?
• What skills make me a unique asset to the team?

Now for the best part—the chance to sell yourself. If necessary, expand on your skill set and describe what you know and love about the company:

“Continuing to develop my writing craft is one of my greatest life pursuits. After graduating from Such-and-Such college with my English degree, I’ve had the opportunity to broaden my skill set on several technical and analytical writing assignments working with different companies, including Special Writing Co., We Write, Inc., and Writers for Life.”

A foreknowledge of your potential future employer’s work ethic expectations and company values suggests to the hiring manager that you’re willing to follow departmental guidelines, which is a valuable trait in an applicant.

Most of all, you should express your enthusiasm for your job. Ask yourself: why do you love doing what you do? 

It’s a simple question, but at the heart of the matter, employers are looking for passionate individuals that can contribute to a healthy work environment.

Persuade (Call to Action)

Just like putting a beautiful bow on a gift, wrapping up with a persuasive closing paragraph, including a call to action, is an integral part of your cover letter outline.

You want to avoid going through all the hard work of selling yourself and expressing your personality, then leave the letter without a persuasive closing.

Encourage the hiring manager to call you for an interview or visit your website. The bottom line is that once the hiring manager reaches “Sincerely,” they should have a reasonable expectation of how to move forward with the hiring process. 

“Thank you for considering me. As someone who’s always had a gift for words and has continued to develop that skill set, I’m excited to learn more about this position. As one of your writers, I’ll have the opportunity to create exceptional projects for our clients. To discuss the opportunity to work together more, please contact me at [email protected]”

Here is an example when all is put together:

Always review your work carefully to check for grammar errors, repetition, and non-sequiturs to ensure your cover letter outline is as brilliant as it can be. 

Consider the tone of your cover letter outline and keep it brief. Remember, your cover letter is one of many of the hiring manager will read. Trimming down your unwieldy sentences to get right to the point improves their readability.

The Bottom Line

A cover letter is one of many factors contributing to your chance of getting hired. Still, for some companies, it’s an ample opportunity to demonstrate your professionalism, skills, and personality. 

All told, it’s a chance to advertise yourself, and what could be better?

Further reading:  Cover Letter Tips For First Time Job Applicants, Proper Business Letter Format

How to Write a Cover Letter For an Internship

What Is a Letter of Intent & How to Write One (with Examples)

Curriculum Vitae vs a Resumé: What’s the Difference?

How To End A Cover Letter

Winning Intro Sentences for Resume Cover Letters

Cover Letter Tips For First Time Job Applicants

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5 Elements Every Cover Letter Outline Needs

In This Guide:

What is a cover letter outline, 1. cover letter header: your first impression, 2. first paragraph: grab their attention and never let go of it, 3. body paragraph: tell your story, 4. call to action, 5. sign-off.

You just found the perfect job posting, but when you went to apply, you were told that you need a cover letter.

Don't stress one bit!

Cover letters don't have to be complicated, but they are an important piece of the application process.

Sending a cover letter opens up the opportunity for an interview by sharing your story–your triumphs, accomplishments, and skills–to a hiring manager.

It's like getting one foot in the door.

In this article, we're going to look at all the major elements of a cover letter outline, and discuss:

• How does a cover letter header function?
• How can you grab the attention of the reader in your opening paragraph?
• How can you breathe life and personality into your cover letter in the body paragraphs?
• What is a call to action, and how to use that to get yourself an interview?

If you're interested in learning more about how to craft a killer cover letter, Enhancv has 500+ Cover letter examples which have been updated for 2022.

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Cover letters are a professional letter sent to a hiring manager which shows your skills and abilities in the job that you're applying for. The format for a cover letter outline helps you to know exactly what you need to include, and what you can keep out.

Often overlooked, cover letter headers are an important part of the cover letter structure because they provide all the information that a hiring manager needs to contact you.

But it's more than just your personal information.

A properly formatted cover letter header shows a hiring manager that you've done your research and learned more about the company, as well as addressing the letter to a specific hiring manager.

Let's check out the major elements of a cover letter header:

• Your Personal Information : This first section of the cover letter header includes your name, your email address, and your phone number. You may also want to include your address and the current job title.
• Date : Include the date on which you wrote the letter.
• The addressee's information : This may take some time to find, but look for the hiring manager's name, their position within the company, as well as the name of the company and the mailing address.
• Salutation : The last section of the header, the salutation, allows you to address the letter to a specific person - Dear Mr./Ms. [hiring manager's name]

It's critical to put in a bit of effort to find the hiring manager's name and their position in the company, as this shows that you have gone above and beyond and have researched the position more fully.

Try to avoid the generic sounding , "Dear hiring manager" in the salutation.

Before you write the body of the letter, look over your resume header and cover letter header to make sure that they match. Any mistakes in grammar or spelling, as well as addresses and contact information, can cause your resume and cover letter to be thrown out.

If you create a general cover letter template, a cover letter which you can use when applying for several jobs, you won’t need to update your own personal information for each cover letter.

Let's dive deeper into how to start your cover letter by looking at ways to captivate the reader.

The first paragraph of your cover letter outline should open strong by explaining why you are the ideal candidate for the position, and why you think you'll fit well within the company.

Start by providing the name of the position that you are applying for and express interest in the position.

Show that you've learned a little about the company's culture, values, and mission. One of the best ways to find more content about the company is to look through the job application itself. There, you may find the values and vision of the company written for new applicants.

Here are some other places that you may ‌find information about the company that you can include in the first paragraph of your cover letter:

• The company website
• Executives' social media accounts
• From family or friends who have worked at the company
• Marketing and email materials.

The first paragraph is a brilliant spot to share about what interests you about becoming a part of the team, but avoid focusing the entirety of your cover letter on what you love about the company.

You can quickly mention your admiration for the company, and then head onto sharing about yourself and what makes you a great fit for the company as well.

We know, you don't like to talk about yourself.

We get it, but in a cover letter, you can leverage your experiences to show that you're the best person for the job.

Ultimately, your cover letter should weave a compelling narrative about why you are the most competent person for the job.

This is the place where you can explain why the skills and abilities that you've gained over years of experience in your field will make you the ideal candidate to fill the position.

One quick note about the tone of your cover letter: it should appropriately match the tone of the job application and the company that you're applying for.

If you're applying for a creative company, one that uses informal language in the job application, social media posts, and marketing materials, you may be free to use a little more informal language when you are explaining about your achievements.

However, if you're applying for a more conservative company, like a financial institution or a law firm, air on the side of caution and keep it as formal as possible.

Here are three things to remember about tone when writing a cover letter:

• Use strong action words to describe your accomplishments.
• Avoid sharing personal details, including negative feelings about your current workplace or your current manager.
• Be humble, and include others who have helped you along the way, like your current manager and other team members.

Highlight Hard and Soft Skills

Hard skills are technical skills that you gain through schooling and work experience, while soft skills are people skills, which are developed as you collaborate in a team setting. Both are great to put on a cover letter because they show your level of competency to work in a team environment or independently.

Some soft skills that you can include on your cover letter include:

• Verbal and written communication
• Problem-solving skills
• Leadership skills
• Adaptability
• Ability to work within a team

Use Concrete, Quantitative Examples

Try to stick to quantitative results based information when you are sharing about your professional skills and accomplishments .

For example, if you are part of the sales team at your current company and watched profits increase, mention, "In the first quarter of 2020, I was on a team that spearheaded an initiative that increased profits 5%, even during the economic downturn."

By including percentages and actual, tangible numbers, the hiring manager can see and evaluate how much your work has been beneficial to your current company.

Now that you've hooked the reader with your achievements, reel them in with a great call to action.

The last paragraph in the cover letter format is a call to action, the place where you can address to the hiring manager about your willingness to apply for the position.

Be persuasive here, and since you've already got your foot in the door, try to pry it open a bit more to get that interview.

If a hiring manager has read through your cover letter, there's a good chance that they would like to speak to you more about interviewing for the position.

Your call to action should be focused on getting the hiring manager to follow-up with you, either through an interview or for further discussion.

This last section of your cover letter can be a simple "Sincerely" followed by your name. You can also add a personal touch by signing the cover letter just above your name.

• The cover letter header is your first introduction with the hiring manager, so format it correctly and make sure it matches your resume.
• Grab the attention of the reader by tailoring the first paragraph of your cover letter to the company and position that you're applying to.
• Set the tone of your body paragraph by using strong, action words, as well as data driven results.
• Share your interest in the position and your desire to be interviewed for it with a call to action.

If you need a bit of help with crafting your own custom cover letter, check out Enhacv's Cover Letter Builder . The CL builder offers you the ability to create a cover letter from scratch using superior templates and advice from experts in their field.

I like to think that cover letters are first impressions, and with the help of the CL builder, you can create the perfect first impression.

• Cover Letter Guides

How to Get a Job in Silicon Valley: Industry Trends, Secrets, and Expert Advice in 2024

21 chatgpt prompts to get you to start writing your cover letter, how to use numbers on your resume, how to answer: "what's your biggest weakness" in an interview, what do you look for in a manager interview question and answers, how to edit and proofread your resume professionally to get hired.

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Cover Letter Templates Modern Cover Letter Templates

Modern Cover Letter Templates

Looking to freshen up your cover letter? Our modern cover letter templates can help you build an application that catches the eye of any hiring manager in 2024. But if nothing suits you on this page, we have 200+ other free cover letter templates to choose from across our website.

The 2024 Cover Letter Template

Why it’s called the “2024”.

The “2024” is our latest and most advanced of all our cover letter templates . “2024” embraces the future while staying true to design principles that have survived for decades, making it ideal for job seekers navigating today’s volatile job market.

Who should use it?

The 2024 template is versatile and modern. Anybody can use this template — whatever role they’re applying for.

Format and style

Major features

• Clear, bold heading that clearly displays your name
• Top – 2.54 cm
• Bottom – 1 cm
• Left – 1.9 cm
• Right – 1.9 cm

Text details

• Name/Header Font: Lora
• Content Font: Open Sans
• Name Font Size: 24pt
• Contact Details Font Size: 11pt
• Body Font Size: 11pt

Examples of this template in action

• Civil Engineer Cover Letter
• Server Cover Letter
• Data Analyst Cover Letter
• Nanny Cover Letter
• Real Estate Agent Cover Letter
• Accountant Cover Letter

Looking for something else? Explore our full library of cover letter examples , and download them for free! Don’t have Word? Try a google docs cover letter template instead.

How to download this template

Cover Letter builder

Making a cover letter that stands out from the slush pile is easier and more convenient with us. You can follow a pre-made cover letter template or create your own design from scratch using our intuitive drag-and-drop editor tool.

The Aesthetic Cover Letter Template

Why it’s called the “aesthetic”.

The “Aesthetic” cover letter template gets its name from the full-color header that features a gradual color gradient and repeating geometric sine waves. With layers of visual interest, this template draws attention with its appealing design.

The “Aesthetic” cover letter is made for job seekers who are looking to add some color to their application and capture the attention of hiring managers. If you work in a creative industry, a modern cover letter like this can boost your application.

• Bold header featuring an aesthetic color gradient
• Name/Header Font: Teko
• Content Font: Signika
• Name Font Size: 40pt

The Advanced Cover Letter Template

Why it’s called the “advanced”.

The Advanced template is designed for those who can boast advanced technical skills or an in-demand specialty.

Paired with the Advanced resume template that helps job seekers show off their skills, this cover letter template is perfect for those who want to advertise their expertise or technical knowledge.

• A colored band containing your contact details paired with a matching band at the bottom of the cover letter.
• Name/Header Font: Poppins
• Name Font Size: 28pt
• Electrical Engineer Cover Letter
• Bookkeeper Cover Letter
• Data Scientist Cover Letter
• Internship Cover Letter
• Housekeeping Cover Letter

The Quick Cover Letter Template

Why it’s called “quick”.

We named this template “Quick” because of how effectively it catches your attention. With a full-color background, this cover letter will make sure the hiring manager takes notice.

The “Quick” template is the perfect option for job seekers in creative industries such as design or marketing. If you’re looking for an eye-catching template, this is the one for you.

• Full-color background
• Contact details lining the bottom of the page
• Name/Header Font: Signika Negative
• Content Font: Yantramanav
• Name Font Size: 30pt
• Body Font Size: 12pt

The Clean Cover Letter Template

Why it’s called the “clean”.

The Clean template features a clear and visually striking design that is sure to catch the eye of hiring managers.

Job seekers who prefer an uncluttered cover letter that liberates their writing from the confines of the page.

• Subdued name allows the content to take center stage.
• Bold band of color contains your name and contact details.
• Name/Header Font: Nunito Sans
• Content Font: Catamaran
• Body Font Size: 11.5pt
• Event Planner Cover Letter
• Mechanic Cover Letter
• Certified Public Accountant Cover Letter
• Secretary Cover Letter

The Corporate Cover Letter Template

Why it’s called the “corporate”.

Professionalism and industriousness are the watchwords of the Corporate template, which is sure to suit those seeking career advancement.

Ambitious go-getters who aren’t afraid of working hard to deliver for themselves and their firm.

• Colorful header with clearly displayed name and contact details.
• White font color for your name is indicative of modesty and quiet confidence.
• Content Font: Nunito Sans
• Name Font Size: 26pt
• Legal Assistant Cover Letter
• Hair Stylist Cover Letter
• Project Manager Cover Letter
• Bank Teller Cover Letter
• Janitor Cover Letter

The Hybrid Cover Letter Template

Why it’s called the “hybrid”.

The “Hybrid” cover letter template may have a splash of color, but it’s nevertheless professional. The balance of aesthetics and formality hints to hiring managers that you are a diligent, competent candidate.

Candidates with solid interpersonal skills who are ready to hit the ground running in their new workplace.

• Colorful accents at the top and bottom of the cover letter with a gray background behind your name.
• Top – .25 cm
• Bottom – .25 cm
• Left – .94 cm
• Right – .93 cm
• Name/Header Font: Roboto
• Content Font: Roboto
• Contact Details Font Size: 11pt
• Library Page Cover Letter
• Software Engineer Cover Letter
• Human Resources (HR) Cover Letter
• Truck Driver Cover Letter

The Majestic Cover Letter Template

Why it’s called the “majestic”.

The Majestic template boasts a unique header image that captures the tone of the cover letter. It’s our most eye-catching template design, and embodies the job hunt of modern job seekers looking for work in the big city.

Job seekers applying for jobs where they’re competing against dozens (if not hundreds) of other applicants. If you want to make sure your cover letter is seen, our “Majestic” template is a good way to make it happen.

• This cover letter is dominated by its large header image featuring a city skyline in the background.
• Name/Header Font: Bebas Neue
• Name Font Size: 38pt
• Restaurant Manager Cover Letter
• Photographer Cover Letter
• Paralegal Cover Letter
• Librarian Cover Letter

The Stylish Cover Letter Template

Why it’s called the “stylish”.

It’s easy to see why — our Stylish cover letter template combines a modern design and professional, aesthetic colors.

Writing a cover letter doesn’t have to be boring. The Stylish template is perfect for job seekers who want to highlight their creative side.

• A large pastel-color header containing the applicant’s name and contact details.
• Name/Header Font: Raleway
• Content Font: Nunito
• Call Center Representative Cover Letter
• Academic Cover Letter
• Administrative Assistant Cover Letter
• Sales Cover Letter

The Unique Cover Letter Template

Why it’s called the “unique”.

The Unique template will set you apart from the crowd and ensure that hiring managers judge you on your individual assets.

The Unique cover letter template is particularly suited for candidates applying for jobs involving social media because the matching resume features a social media section.

• Prominent circle in the header contains your initials.
• Light addition of color
• Property Manager Cover Letter
• Mechanical Engineer Cover Letter
• Marketing Cover Letter
• Waiter/Waitress Cover Letter
• Nursing Cover Letter

The Millennial Cover Letter Template

Why it’s called the “millennial”.

The “Millennial” template features a light color scheme, giving a modern and stylish impression.

The “Millennial” cover letter template is perfect for those working in creative industries who don’t mind adding a splash of color to their application.

• A colorful sidebar that showcases candidates’ names and contact information
• Content Font: Roboto Flex

The New Age Cover Letter Template

Why it’s called the “new age”.

The “New Age” template’s clean design features and bright color palette provide a fresh and modern spin on the traditional cover letter.

The “New Age” cover letter template is a good choice for those who want a sleek cover letter that’ll get a hiring manager’s attention.

• A colorful sidebar that highlights your name and contact information
• A light, modern color palette

The Tech Cover Letter Template

Why it’s called the “tech”.

The “Tech” template has a straightforward layout and uses rounded icons, inspired by the design principles popular among tech giants.

The “Tech” cover letter template is made for those looking for jobs at tech startups, with a matching resume template that emphasizes a candidate’s technical skill set.

• A header featuring a light color gradient
• Colorful icons and fonts that add visual interest
• Name/Header Font: Inter
• Content Font: Inter
• Name Font Size: 32pt

The Two Column Cover Letter Template

Why it’s called the “two column”.

The “Two Column” cover letter template accompanies an attractive resume template that organizes a candidate’s information into two easy-to-scan columns. With a little extra color and flair, this design is sure to make your application stand out.

The “Two Column” is well-suited to job seekers looking for work in creative fields who want to show off a little personality.

• Colorful bubbles that frame the page corners
• A large header that highlights a candidate’s name and contact information
• Content Font: PT Sans

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Cover Letter Format (w/ Examples & Free Templates)

Give someone who knows nothing about cooking the ingredients to a perfect meal and you’ll end up with a disorganized, very possibly inedible, meal. 

The same disorganized, quite possibly tasteless, fate awaits your cover letter if you don’t know how to properly format it. 

Getting the cover letter format right is the same as having those coveted cooking skills that can turn the right ingredients into a meal that leaves you wanting more.

Now, if you’re wondering whether your formatting skills are enough to impress recruiters, there’s no need to worry. 

This article is going to show you exactly how to format a cover letter the right way. 

Here’s what we’re going to cover: 

• What Should Go On a Cover Letter?
• How to Format Your Cover Letter
• (Free) Cover Letter Templates You Can Use
• How to Format Your Cover Letter When Sending It Via Email

The Best Cover Letter Format - What Goes on a Cover Letter

Your cover letter’s format is both how your cover letter looks and how it’s structured. 

So, cover letter formatting includes everything from page margins, spacing, and font size to how long your cover letter should be, how many paragraphs it should have, and what each paragraph should contain. 

Pretty substantial, if you ask us - which is exactly why we’ll go over these elements one by one. Before we do, however, let’s first get the essentials out of the way. 

What exactly goes into a cover letter? The short answer is as follows:  

• A header , which contains your contact information and the employer’s or recruiter’s contact information.
• A greeting to the recruiter and the opening paragraph , which you want to use to grab the reader’s attention.
• The body of your cover letter , which is between 1-3 paragraphs.
• A closing paragraph , which usually contains a call to action.
• A formal salutation .

And here’s what that looks like in practice: 

A Look into Your Cover Letter Format, by Section

In theory, all these rules are pretty straightforward...

But if you’ve ever written a cover letter before, you’ll probably agree with us that actually writing one ain’t all that simple.

In this section, we’ll take you through the entire process of creating a cover letter, section by section!

Starting with:

#1. Header 

Your cover letter’s header should contain your contact info, the date, and the hiring manager’s or employer’s contact info. 

If you’re wondering which contact information you should include and which you should leave out, here are the essentials: 

• Full name and professional title (where applicable) 
• Phone number
• Name and professional title of the hiring manager
• Name of the company you’re applying to 
• Company address 

Here’s a visual representation of this: 

If you want to know more about header formatting, such as what you can optionally include and what you should definitely leave out, head over to our guide on how to start a cover letter . 

#2. Greeting 

After listing your contact information, it’s time to address the cover letter . 

First things first: the impersonal and overly popular “To Whom It May Concern” and “Dear Sir/Madam” are yesterday’s news. They’re impersonal and just about every other applicant uses them. 

And you want your cover letter to stand out, right?

So, greet the hiring manager directly, instead. For example: 

Dear Mr. Brown, Dear Mrs. Waldorf,

If, however, you are unsure about their title, gender, marital status, or pronouns, use their entire name to avoid any mistakes, such as: 

Dear Alex Brown, Dear Blair Waldorf,

Alternatively, the recruiter may hold a title, such as Doctor, Professor, or sergeant, or you might be addressing a letter without a contact person. 

In such cases, here are some do-s and don’t-s to keep in mind: 

Dear John Doe, Dear Mr./Mrs. Doe, Dear Dr. Leonard, Dear Rev. Owen, Dear Marketing Hiring Team, Dear Director of Marketing,

To Whom It May Concern, What’s Up Hiring Team, Dear Sir/Madam, Hey John, Hi there Hiring Team,

#3. Opening Paragraph 

The opening paragraph of your cover letter is where the recruiter first gets to really hear your voice. As such, you’ve got to make it count and grab their attention before they move on to the next applicant.  

And how exactly do you do that? Well, for starters, avoid being generic. You don’t want your opening paragraph to sound as if you’re applying to dozens of jobs with the same letter.

Instead, you want your opening paragraph to mention:

• Your name, profession, and years of experience.
• 1-2 of your top achievements (to help you stand out).
• The name of the firm and position you’re applying for.

Here’s what this would look like in a cover letter:

My name is Ellen and I’d like to join Company X as a marketing expert. I believe that my 5+ years of experience as a marketing specialist, as well as my skills in PPC management and copywriting, will help me drive new users to your platform Additionally, I believe that my past experience in the financial industry will help me excel at the role.

Struggling with writing your own cover letter introduction? Check out our guide on how to start a cover letter effectively! 

#4. Cover Letter Body 

The body of your cover letter usually consists of 1-3 paragraphs and is where you convince the recruiter that you're the right person for the job.

We have a few pointers to help you do that:

• Don’t just rehash your CV. The recruiter already read it. Instead, use your cover letter to elaborate on your achievements and back them up with even more evidence. 
• Understand the job requirements. Check the requirements for the position in the job listing, see how you can match them with your strengths and qualifications, and use the body of your cover letter to show you’re a good fit for the job. 
• Research the company. Also important is to show that you match the company’s culture. Read up about the company you’re applying for and learn what’s their product/service, what are they known for, what kind of culture they have, and so on. Then, in your cover letter, mention a bit about the company’s culture and talk about how you’re a good fit.

And here’s hows the body of your cover letter would look like in practice: 

In my previous role as a Marketing Expert, I also handled the company’s Digital Marketing. During the course of one year, I managed the company’s monthly Facebook ad budget, which amounted to $20,000+ and the process of ad creation and management end-to-end. The process involved creating ad copies, images, picking out the targeting, running optimization trials, and so on. 

In addition to Facebook advertising, I am also knowledgeable in other Pay Per Click channels, such as: 

I actually learned a lot about PPC management basics from your company YouTube channel, and really admire how you guys manage your ad accounts. Since I’m already familiar with how Company X handles ads, I believe that I’d be able to really excel at the role.

#5. Closing Paragraph (And a Call to Action) 

Now, how you end a cover letter is just as important as how you start it. 

As you wrap up your cover letter, it’s important to do the following:

• Mention anything that you couldn’t in the previous paragraphs . If you have anything left to say, mention it here. 
• Thank the hiring manager for their time . Good manners go a long way. 
• Finish the cover letter with a call to action . Your cover letter’s last sentence should be a call to action, such as asking the hiring manager to take some sort of action. 

Here’s an example of that: 

In conclusion, thank you for considering my application. I hope I have the chance to help your company take its marketing initiatives to the next level. It would be great to discuss how my experience so far can make that a reality. 

As for your formal salutation, you can use any of the following “tried and tested” greetings: 

• Best Regards,
• Kind Regards,

Cover Letter Format Guide 

We went over what goes in your cover letter section by section. However, how your cover letter looks on the outside is just as important. 

Following some standard formatting tips will show the hiring manager that you took the time and put in the effort to hand in the best version of a cover letter, which is sure to help your case. 

Here are the rules that you need to follow: 

• Keep your cover letter between half and one page in length to make sure the recruiter actually reads the whole thing (if you had to read 100+ cover letters, you’d want applicants to stick to one page too). That’s between 250-400 words long . 
• Use 1 or 1.5 line spacing throughout your text , and double spacing between paragraphs. 
• Go for a simple and readable font and set your font size to 11 or 12 pts . Using custom fonts may seem like a good idea, but there’s no guarantee the hiring manager’s computer will have that specific font installed.
• Save your cover letter in PDF format to make sure the layout stays the same despite the type of software or Operating System (OS) that opens it. 

Or Choose One of Our Cover Letter Templates 

The cover letter is an inseparable part of any application package. As such, you want your cover letter format to be as impeccable as possible. 

And while the formatting rules we’ve listed above aren’t complicated to follow, you’d rather not take any risks with your cover letter format.  

Want to make sure that your cover letter format is impeccable?

Just use a cover letter template!

The format is done for you - all you have to do is fill in the contents. 

Our cover letter templates are well-designed and guaranteed to leave a good impression on the recruiter!

On top of that, all of our templates come with a matching resume template , ensuring that your job application stands out from the rest.

Sending Your Cover Letter Via Email? Here’s How To Do It! 

It’s safe to assume that nowadays, most cover letters are sent via email. That means that you’re probably submitting your email in one of two ways: 

• Sending it as an email attachment.
• Uploading it to the company’s webpage.

If that’s the case, you’re good with the formatting rules listed above. 

If, however, you’re sending your cover letter in the body of the email, here’s what you need to do differently: 

• Write a professional subject line. The best and safest formula is “Name - Position you’re applying to” (e.g. “Helen Simms - Application for Marketing Expert Position”).
• Remove the header. As the hiring manager’s contact details and the date are no longer necessary, remove the header altogether and place your contact information underneath the formal salutation. 
• Look out for typos. Check your cover letter and then double-check it. Typing on a keyboard can be tricky; sometimes, a typo might just be a matter of fast typing. Avoid that by being extra careful. 

And you’re about ready to press “Send.”

Key Takeaways

Your cover letter format is a big part of the impression your job application can make. As such, it’s important to get the formatting right. 

Here are the main points this article covers to achieve that: 

• Make sure to structure your cover letter the right way. 
• Address your cover letter the right way and write an attention-grabbing opening paragraph.
• Wrap up your cover letter with a call to action. 
• Pay attention to the margins, space lining, font size, and cover letter length.
• If you’re sending your cover letter as the body of your email, make sure to tweak the formatting accordingly.  

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• Cover Letter

Outline for a Cover Letter: Guide for 2024 [+ Examples]

Do you have trouble writing your cover letter? Need help figuring out how to start? No more! Plan your cover letter the right way with our cover letter outline guide.

Picture this: You’re searching for the next great job opportunity and found more than a dozen applications that caught your eye. So you prepare your resume, upload it, and just when you’re about to hit “send,” you realize all of these companies require a cover letter.

Don’t let these opportunities pass you by. With this guide, you’ll learn how to create the perfect outline for a cover letter that will help you secure your next big job.

In this guide, we’ll show you:

• What sections to use to create a professional outline for a cover letter.
• Ways to avoid rookie mistakes when writing your cover letter outline.
• An expertly crafted example of a cover letter outline with five samples straight from our builder.

Save hours of work and get a cover letter like this. Pick a template, fill it in. Quick and easy. Choose from 20+ cover letter templates and download your cover letter now.

Create your cover letter now

What users say about ResumeLab:

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

Looking for more helpful articles about cover letters? Check out our other guides:

• Email Cover Letter
• Free Google Docs Cover Letter Templates
• How to Write a Cover Letter
• Things to Include in a Cover Letter
• What Should a Cover Letter Look Like

Or take a look at some of our many cover letter guides for specific jobs:

• Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Example
• Data Entry Cover Letter Guide
• Executive Assistant Cover Letter Sample
• HR Cover Letter
• Office Manager Cover Letter Guide

Perfect Cover Letter Outline

A cover letter outline is divided into several vital sections. Let’s discuss them in detail:

1. Cover Letter Heading With Contact Details

Just like a resume, cover letters require your contact information. But unlike a resume, you need to personally address the hiring manager or recruiter to make it look proper.

A cover letter header needs this information in this specific order:

• Your full name
• Telephone number
• Email address
• Links to relevant sites, e.g., LinkedIn or your professional website (optional if you’re sending a physical letter)
• Current date
• Recruiter’s full name
• Company name

Can’t you find the recruiter’s information? Refer to our guide on how to address a cover letter .

2. Salutation and an Enticing First Paragraph

Always personalize your cover letter opening. If you start with a generic: “To whom it may concern,” you can pretty much throw your application out. The proper cover letter etiquette demands that you use the hiring manager’s name. It shows you took the time to read through the application and research the company. And a dedicated applicant has a much higher chance of landing an interview.

So start your cover letter with a “Dear [Recruiter’s Name]” for the maximum impact.

And the next step in writing your outline for a cover letter is the hook. Use the first paragraph to entice the reader and make them want to know more about you. How do you do that?

• Introduce yourself.
• Show interest in the company (be direct, but not desperate).
• Showcase your major achievement or knowledge of skills required in the job ad.
• Briefly mention how you believe you can help the company in the future.

Do it right, and they’ll proceed to the next paragraph. Speaking of which…

3. Middle Part Full of Achievements

Now that you managed to hook the recruiter, it’s time to reel them in. And what better way to do that than to show them how incredible your work achievements are? 

Showcasing a couple of your best professional accomplishments is a proven way to vastly improve your chances of getting hired. Here’s how to do that:

• List up to 3 achievements or examples of skills (and, if possible, prove them with numbers).
• Tell a short story about your most prominent achievement.
• Use resume power words and resume keywords for maximum impact (yes, they work with cover letters, too).

This part of the cover letter outline is going to be the longest. Take your time creating it, pick your achievements carefully, and flesh them out with numbers. 

We also recommend you do a bit of research on the company’s culture. The result of poor culture fit due to turnover can cost an organization between 50-60% of the person’s annual salary. For example, if the company puts emphasis on learning and continuous improvement, show them you’re always looking for opportunities to further your own knowledge and expertise. A course you’re currently taking or a certificate you recently received will show the recruiter

Expert Hint: No matter how many achievements you have, pick only a couple of them so that your cover letter is only one-page long. A single page is the only correct length of a cover letter .

4. Call to Action in the Last Paragraph

Remember why you’re creating a letter of application . It’s a tool meant to persuade your future employer to hire you. And how do you usually convince people to do something? That’s right—you ask them to do that thing.

So begin the last paragraph by restating your interest in the job. You can remind the recruiter of your values and that you’d be honored to work for them. And try to avoid saying “your company.” Instead, use the company’s name.

After such a short reminder, it’s the perfect time to ask to schedule a meeting. Offer a chance to talk to you about the solutions you can provide for their company. Present yourself confidently, and you’ll be recognized as the right person for the job.

5. Proper Sign-Off

The only step left is to end the cover letter the right way. Start with “Sincerely,” and then repeat your contact information. Just your contact information. Adding your contact at the bottom lets the recruiter contact you immediately after reading your cover letter.

Expert Hint: Double-check your cover letter for typos—they make you look completely unprofessional. And the last thing you want is not to land a job because of unfortunate misspellings. You can use a program like Grammarly to help you out.

6. Appealing Post Scriptum

This step is entirely optional, and you don’t have to do it if you don’t want to. You already have a perfect cover letter ready. But, a well-tailored P.S. can bring it one step further.

A P.S. is an extension of your call to action. Here, you promise to tell the recruiter the story behind your most significant work achievement, like increasing sales by 22%. This part needs to have a serious impact, so if you don’t have a jaw-dropping accomplishment, you can skip adding a P.S. to your cover letter outline.

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

CREATE YOUR COVER LETTER NOW

Want to try a different look? There's 21 more. A single click will give your document a total makeover. Pick a cover letter template here .

Outline for a Cover Letter—Examples

Now that you know how to craft a cover letter outline, let’s turn the theory into practice. Below, you’ll find an expertly crafted cover letter outline plus five different formats created in our builder.

Text-Based Cover Letter Outline Example

Web Developer

928-427-8856

[email protected]

ericjones.com

linkedin.com/in/ericjones11

March 16, 2019

Ernest Melendez

Formula-C Group

1708 Masonic Drive

Bozeman, MT 59715

Dear Mr. Melendez,

I am excited to see Formula-C is hiring for a Web Developer position. As a Web Developer with 3+ years of experience in the field, I have gained a strong knowledge of JS, Python, Ruby, and HTML, which I am confident will help me provide untried solutions to your company.

While working for Apex Technologies, I honed my abilities in optimizing UX and customer satisfaction. I was also responsible for handling clients’ websites on both desktop and mobile. Some of my work achievements include:

• Raised customer retention by up to 27% and customer satisfaction by up to 41% on six different websites.
• Optimized and streamlined back-end code, reducing its length by 33%.

I am also committed to further improving my abilities, which a recently gained title of “Ruby Association Certified Ruby Programmer Gold” can prove. I continue to learn other languages and will become certified in Python in the nearest future.

Formula-C is well-known in the industry for its expertise in web development, and I am positive I can meet your high standards. Could we schedule a meeting to discuss the next steps of the recruitment process? I would love to tell you more how my work experience could influence your further successful development.

Best Regards,

Eric Jones, Web Developer

P.S.—I would be glad to share how I created an e-commerce application that improved company sales by 42%.

Feels like too much work? 

Our cover letter builder is designed to guide you through the entire process. If you’re stuck, you can use the pre-written suggestions as guidelines for crafting the perfect cover letter. The layout doesn't need to be complicated, either. Pick one of the many available templates, and the cover letter outline will reorganize itself accordingly.

See how yours could look on five different cover letter templates:

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

CREATE YOUR RESUME NOW

Nail it all with a splash of color, choose a clean font, highlight your skills in just a few clicks. You’re the perfect candidate and we’ll prove it. Just pick one of 21 resume templates and get started now .

In order to create the perfect cover letter outline, remember to:

• Use a visually appealing cover letter format .
• Begin with your contact details, date, and the contact details of the employer.
• Address the recruiter by name.
• Hook the reader by referencing skills and accomplishments they’re looking for.
• Show your motivation and dedication.
• Finish with a solid call to action.
• Include a P.S. for maximum impact.

Do you have questions about creating a good outline for a cover letter? Need more cover letter tips to enhance your application? Let’s chat in the comments section. We’ll be more than happy to help you! Thanks for reading!

About ResumeLab’s Editorial Process

At ResumeLab, quality is at the crux of our values, supporting our commitment to delivering top-notch career resources. The editorial team of career experts carefully reviews every article in accordance with editorial guidelines , ensuring the high quality and reliability of our content. We actively conduct original research, shedding light on the job market's intricacies and earning recognition from numerous influential news outlets . Our dedication to delivering expert career advice attracts millions of readers to our blog each year.

Mariusz is a career expert with a background in quality control & economics. With work experience in FinTech and a passion for self-development, Mariusz brings a unique perspective to his role. He’s dedicated to providing the most effective advice on resume and cover letter writing techniques to help his readers secure the jobs of their dreams.

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