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How to Write a Cover Letter in 2023 (Layout, Template and Examples)

Cover Letter Layout

The recent stiff competition for limited job opportunities has prevented many people from landing decent jobs. Although many applicants are qualified for a particular job, few realize that presenting the right documentation is the secret to staying ahead of the competition.

When writing a cover letter , the overall layout can make or break a potential interview request. If you style and design it in a way that catches the attention of your potential employer, you’re ahead of the competition. Continue reading for tips and advice on how to write a winning cover letter properly.

What is the purpose of a cover letter?

The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce yourself and to explain why you are interested in and qualified for the job for which you are applying.

A cover letter should be included with your resume when you apply for a job. It should be tailored to the specific position for which you are applying and should highlight your skills, experiences, and accomplishments that are relevant to the role.

A compelling cover letter speaks to the hiring manager, telling them why you’re the best candidate for a particular job. It describes how you are suited for the job and what you’ll bring to the table when given the opportunity.

What to Include in a Cover Letter

Your cover letter can be divided into three sections: the introduction, an overview of your skills and expertise, and a conclusion.

Most employers often glance through a cover letter to get a taste of who you are, even before delving into a resume . Therefore, it’s crucial to keep things organized and concise so they don’t lose interest.

4 Steps on How to Write a cover letter for 2023

Writing a cover letter isn’t easy, but you could face a lifetime of opportunities by writing a great one. People who know how to write a cover letter generally have a better chance of getting hired.  Below are the four steps you should take to create a compelling cover letter:

1. Add Contact Information | Cover Letter Details

Your cover letter intro should include your name, official email, phone number, and perhaps LinkedIn profile.

Where applicable, include the hiring manager/organization’s contact information, address, and number. Providing your contact information allows the employer to reach you when they find you fit for the job.

Note: Nowadays, recruiters are using LinkedIn to find potential employees for their organizations. Feel free to add your LinkedIn profile URL if you would like.

2. Create The Salutation | Cover Letter Introduction

It’s always courteous to greet the hiring manager with an appropriate title. After all, they’re also human. You can research a little about the employer and discover who they are. This way, the salutation won’t be awkward, and there won’t be any mistakes. But if you can’t find out much about them, don’t worry.

Use “Dear Sir/Madam.” This is the most appropriate salutation in case you have no clue who the recruiter or hiring manager is.

3. How to Start a Cover Letter | Cover Letter Body

This is where the bulk of your cover letter content will go.

Opening Paragraph

• Start by writing down the job you’re applying for and inform the employer where you learned about it.
• Whether it’s on the Internet or from a newspaper advert, mentioning where you learned about the job opportunity shows your application’s seriousness.

2nd Paragraph

• The second paragraph should capture what you have to offer the organization.
• In this section, describe how you’re equipped to handle the responsibilities of the advertised position.
• Please write a concise summary of your skills, experience, and achievements, but don’t overdo it. The resume will cover the skills section.
• Use bullet points to break down the text to make it easy to read.

3rd paragraph

• The third paragraph should highlight what and how you know the employer.
• For example, an article posted on your favorite social media platform might have drawn your attention to the company. Or maybe it’s been a lifelong dream to work with them.
• Capturing this information shows the employer that you’re interested in the organization’s operations. 
• Don’t make up stories or give false information, which could ruin your credibility. Provide accurate details you could remember even when invited for an  interview .

Closing Paragraph

The fourth section is about closure. It’s a call to action for the employer to consider your application and interest in the job.

Ask them to contact you and give feedback. It’s also wise to leave final regard or a formal closure.

• Words like “Yours Sincerely” and “Best Regards,” are highly recommended because they offer a professional approach.

4. Proofreading | Cover Letter Review

A letter full of mistakes is a turn-off for most employers and will almost all but destroy your chances of an interview. It shows that the applicant didn’t take enough time to read through it and might not be serious about the job.

Always read through the letter to correct mistakes and make the message as clear as your intentions. Ask family members and friends to run through it or use a grammar-checking website like Grammarly to correct any mistakes.

The layout of a cover letter is fairly straightforward, but we’ve provided an easy-to-follow infographic to help make it a bit more visual. While the header, body, and closing sections are crucial, you can also see how we implemented the contact information into the letter.

Cover Letter Template

This template can be helpful for people who are not sure how to structure their cover letter or what information to include. It can be used as a starting point when writing a cover letter, with the idea being that you would customize the template to fit your unique background and skills.

Cover Letter Example

If you are unsure of what a cover letter looks like, this sample can be used as a guide or template for creating your specific cover letter. This is designed to give you an idea of the structure and content of a successful cover letter.

ResumeGenius has a large number of cover letters to utilize. Check them out here

Related Articles:

• Best Resume Writing Services
• How To Secure An Unfair Interview Advantage
• What Not To Say During An Interview

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What else makes a great cover letter, prior research the employer.

Always research the hiring organization and the job being offered. A good cover letter shows that you understand what you’re signing up for.

In most cases, the employer will prioritize applicants who demonstrate a good understanding of the organization’s mission and the responsibilities they’ll be allocated.

Optimize The Cover Letter With Related Keywords

This will increase your visibility to the employer. For example, if a job opening entails journalism, use terms related to journalism, such as editing and writing.

Many recruiters are busy and have limited time to read the entire cover letter. Most will only go through the first few lines (or use the “ctrl F” find function) to get a picture of who you are.

Make the introduction short, precise, and engaging to encourage the employer to read more about you.

Making it Relevant

• Your cover letter should be relevant to the job you’re applying for.
• Some recruiters use an Applicant Tracking System (ATS), software designed to filter applications and present the best matches for a particular job. These systems are primarily used for resumes, but cover letters are filtered through.
• Many applicants don’t pass the ATS, especially if they didn’t read through the job posting. 
• If you don’t want to get filtered out by the ATS, ensure that the cover letter is relevant and rich with keywords related to the job.
• Since it goes with the resume , the cover letter will have given more space to add those keywords and increase the chances of getting discovered.

How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?

Cover letters should be half a page to a full page long (nothing beyond that). Look to limit your cover letter to around 3 to 6 paragraphs, and try not to go beyond 500 words. The recruiter or hiring manager should be able to quickly glance through the content (15 seconds or less).

• Page Length: Should be 1/2 – 1 page long
• Paragraph Count: Stick to 3 to 6 paragraphs long
• Word Count: Have no more than 500 words

Are Cover Letters Still Relevant in 2023?

Yes, cover letters are still relevant and can be an important part of the job application process 2023. While many companies don’t require a cover letter, and others may only give it cursory consideration, a well-written cover letter can still be a valuable tool for introducing yourself to an employer and explaining why you are a good fit for the job.

Wrapping Up | What Should a Cover Letter Include

Your cover letter is an introduction that you can’t miss on. Understanding how to write one specifically for the targeted employer properly will leave an amazing first impression!

Remember, the main purpose is to capture the hiring manager’s attention. You want to convince them that you’re the person they’ve been looking for. To recap our key takeaways, we ran through the following :

• What to include in a cover letter, such as the introduction, main content, and closing
• The cover letter template to help make your own
• The cover letter examples to reference when writing your own
• The suggested length of a cover letter

We hope this helps, and good luck out there!

Your cover letter is only as good as the content of your resume. Here are some resources to help write your own resume or resume writing services to pass off the task to a professional.

Title: Cover Letter Layout 2023

Category: theDocuments

Tags: how to write a cover letter in 2023, how long should a cover letter be, writing cover letter, what is included in a cover letter, how do I write a cover letter for a job, cover letter template, cover letter sample

Author : Reid is a contributor to theJub . He’s an employment and marketing enthusiast who studied business before taking on various recruiting, management, and marketing roles. More from the author. | Author Profile

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Are cover letters necessary in today's job market?

This age-old question has been debated by job seekers and hiring managers alike. A cover letter is a brief document that accompanies a resume and highlights the applicant's skills and qualifications.

Some argue that it is an outdated formality, while others believe it is a crucial component of a job application.

Going ahead, we will delve into the purpose of a cover letter, examine why some hiring managers still value it, and discuss whether or not it is really necessary for the job market of 2023.

So, whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting, read on to find out if you should bother with a cover letter or not.

• Do employers look at cover letters?
• Do you need a cover letter in 2023?
• What can a cover letter explain that a résumé cannot?
• How to tailor your cover letter to the job description?

Importance of Cover Letters for Employers

Ah, the eternal question of job hunting - to cover letter or not to cover letter? As a job seeker, you might be wondering if spending time crafting the perfect cover letter is even worth it. Well, let's take a look at the facts.

According to a recent study conducted by Resume Genius , 78% of recruiters prefer applicants to submit a cover letter . It is a significant number of potential employers who could be reading your cover letter.

So why do some employers place so much value on cover letters?

For starters, a well-written cover letter can provide additional insight into your qualifications, experience, and personality. It is also an opportunity to showcase your writing skills and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position.

Additionally, some employers might see a lack of a cover letter as a red flag. It could signal a lack of attention to detail or a lack of effort on the part of the applicant.

Source: Resume Genius

While not all employers require or even read cover letters, it is always best to err on the side of caution and include one with your application.

After all, it could be the thing that sets you apart from the competition and lands you your dream job.

Also read : How to structure a cover letter for optimum length?

Do You Need a Cover Letter in 2023?

In 2023, the question of whether or not to submit a cover letter with a job application is still a relevant one.

While some employers may not require a cover letter, it can still be beneficial to include one in certain situations.

What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of a Cover Letter?

Advantages of submitting a cover letter :

• Showcases your personality and provides additional context for your qualifications.
• Gives you an edge over other candidates by demonstrating your enthusiasm and attention to detail.

Disadvantages of submitting a cover letter :

• Can be time-consuming and repetitive, particularly if you are applying for multiple positions.
• A poorly written or error-filled cover letter can backfire and cost you a shortlist.

If the job listing does not specifically ask for a cover letter , you may want to consider skipping this step and focusing instead on tailoring your resume to the position.

While the need for a cover letter can vary by industry and employer, there are some industries where submitting a cover letter is generally expected. These include fields such as academia, government, and nonprofit organizations.

Also read : Why is a cover letter closing important?

What Can a Cover Letter Explain that a Resume Cannot?

While some might argue that cover letters are out of date, they can be a powerful tool to complement your resume and showcase your unique value proposition to a potential employer.

Think of your cover letter as your chance to make a personal connection with the hiring manager and explain why you are the best candidate for the job.

For example, you can use your cover letter to explain why you are passionate about the company's mission or values, or how your previous experiences have prepared you for the role you are applying for.

You can also address any career gaps or concerns that might come up in your resume, such as a career change or a period of unemployment.

Also read : How to explain limited work experience in a cover letter?

Tips for Writing an Effective Cover Letter

Getting back to where we started from - Are cover letters necessary?

We have determined by now that the answer is yes, especially if you want to stand out in a sea of applicants. But not just any cover letter will do the trick.

Here are some tips for writing an effective cover letter:

Firstly , tailor your cover letter to the job description. Highlight the skills and experiences that make you a good fit for the role. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what the employer is looking for.

Secondly , avoid common mistakes. Don't just restate the contents of your resume. Instead, use the cover letter to show your personality and explain why you are passionate about the position. Also, make sure to proofread for spelling and grammar errors.

So, take the time to craft a compelling cover letter. It could be the thing that sets you apart from other candidates and lands you your dream job.

Also read : What is the difference between a cover letter and a letter of interest?

Key Takeaways

While cover letters may not be necessary for every job application in 2023, they can still be beneficial in certain situations. It is important to carefully consider the job listing and employer expectations before deciding whether or not to submit a cover letter.

A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out from the competition and demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment to the role. So next time you are considering skipping the cover letter, remember that it could be the key to landing your dream job!

To optimize your resume and cover letter, use Hiration's next-gen ChatGPT-powered career platform, which offers a solution to every obstacle faced by job seekers across the US.

Try it out today to enhance your job search and take your career to the next level. You can also reach out to us at [email protected] for any queries or concerns.

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Cover Letters for College Students: Do you even need one in 2023?

If you are applying for jobs, don't put off writing your cover letter. Be sure to use our template and example as guides!

By Patricia Roy — July 25, 2023

Aren't cover letters a thing of the past, a carryover from the time of postal mail and penmanship?

I know what you are thinking: now that everything is online, the cover letter is surely obsolete.

Not necessarily. While many job postings do not mention cover letters as a required element, many others still do. In fact, more than half of all job applications still require a cover letter. Even when cover letters are not required, most automated applications have space for optional cover letters and supplemental materials — a subtle hint to those who know enough to take it.

Cover Letters: More Art Than Science

It goes without saying that if your field involves writing in any way, a finely crafted letter is necessary. But even if you will not be writing on the job, your writing can make a valuable impression upon a hiring manager. And if you are just starting out, a cover letter can be a strategic tool for persuasion when you don't have a lot of experience. So how do you write a banger cover letter? Here are 5 must-haves for your cover letter.

* See also the example and template at the bottom of this article!

The same ATS ("applicant tracking software") principles you use to write your resume also apply to your cover letter. Use simple formatting, which means no fancy fonts, no tables, and no graphics. Avoid colors. If you want your reader to review a link, type out the address. Links are often removed during the scanning process, so readers will need to copy or type the web address to see your portfolio.

In addition to formatting, it is crucial to use language from the job ad — especially the qualifications section — in both your resume and cover letter. The ATS system scans for keywords, so make sure to choose the phrases the company prioritizes.

Must Be Error-Free

If you think your English teachers have been hard on you, know that this very moment is the reason. Employers do not have to hire you. They can dismiss your application for a misspelled word or a missing period. As someone who sat on a hiring committee, I can tell you that we scrutinized all materials for both credentials and clarity. Many poorly written letters never got past jump. Give your materials to your teacher, advisor, career counselor, best friend, mom — whoever you trust — to proofread. And then proofread what they proofread.

Must Be Written (and Rewritten) by YOU

No doubt you have heard people talking about using AI to write everything from essays, to code, to cover letters. AI can help you format and find language when you are stuck. BUT — and this is a very big but — AI only works if you know what good writing looks like. You are better off learning how to write a good letter first and then using AI to come up with different phrasing for subsequent revisions.

Remember, each cover letter must be tailored to the job description. This tailoring not only ensures your letter is ATS compliant, but it also prevents it from seeming formulaic or boring. It's much easier to recycle the same letter over and over, but doing so isn't a best practice.

Must Tell a Compelling Story

The absolute best cover letters do more than regurgitate language from your resume and job ad. Instead, they tell a story about how you came to acquire your qualifications with a charm that only you can bring. If you struggle to find the right words, ask your teachers, current employers, or advisors for some examples of strong cover letters in their field. Or, ask the career center staff to help you. I've included an example with this article, but it is only one example. Look at lots of letters to get a feel for what works.

Must Be Concise

Once you get good at telling your tale, you may find it easy to get wordy. Remember to proofread to scale it back and simplify your language. Avoid boring your reader with unnecessary adjectives and adverbs or bloated phrasing and stick to the most substantial reasoning and support. 'Nuff said.

Finally, Get an Early Start

If you are applying for jobs, don't put off writing your cover letter. These seemingly simple missives can be quite challenging to get just right and take a lot longer than you think. Be sure to use our template and example as guides!

## Home Street

City, ST 01234

(555) 555-5555

yourschoolemail

https://www.linkedin.com/in/yourprofile

Portfolio or website address typed out

Month ##, 20##

Recipient Name, Title

Company Name

Address (yes, go find it)

City, ST #####

Dear Recipient Name,

Start with an introductory paragraph of about three lines. State the position you are applying for and where you found it or who referred you to it. Just as you would with an essay for school, give an overview of the traits, skills, or abilities FROM THE JOB AD you are going to describe below.

The next section can be formatted in different ways, but the key is to connect your qualifications to those in the ad. Some people use a bulleted list. If you do, make sure you are not just repeating language from your resume. The goal is to tell the story that goes along with those details. Try to position your best case for hiring you at the top of this section.

It is typical to use three body paragraphs, but you can use more if some are very brief, such as this paragraph. Otherwise, your last paragraph delivers your final pitch, thanks the reader, and closes.

Type Your Name Here

• use regular fonts: Calibri, Times New Roman, or Arial — between 10-12 points
• use 1" margin on all four sides
• you can leave off your address for privacy when posting online or to avoid reader prejudice
• you may use bold to highlight qualifications
• if you cannot find a recipient name, use "Dear Hiring Manager"
• if you cannot find a postal address, use the company web address
• you can include links, but type out the addresses
• you can center your heading (name — website)
• the letter should fit on one page]

Josephine Rogers

12 Home Street

Great City, ST 01234

(555) 555-5555 | [email protected] |

www.portfoliowebsite.com

May 12, 2023

Clovis LaCroix, Hiring Manager

Absolutely Fantastic Co.

34 Company Street

Greatville, ST 56789

Dear Clovis LaCroix,

I am excited to introduce myself as a candidate for the social media internship position at Absolutely Fantastic. My Communications professor, Dr. Stacey Gabbagieux recommended that I apply. If your company is looking for someone with great communication skills, experience with Microsoft 365, and self-motivation, allow me to share my story.

While I was still in high school, I was very shy. Even though I excelled at writing, I froze when it came to public speaking. All of that changed when I joined my school's debate team. After a few challenging meets and lots of practice, I graduated as captain of the team with one of the highest number of wins in the school's long history of successful debates. I know that if you need someone to talk to customers on the phone or in person, I can handle it with poise and good cheer.

Now at Greatville College, I have excelled in my communications courses, all of which require intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite as well as other technology listed in my resume. Furthermore, I write articles for our college newspaper, The Greatville Gazette , and monitor the paper's social media accounts with co-editor, John Leprechaun.

As a self-motivated Communications major, I believe I have the knowledge and interest to be a successful social media intern. I look forward to speaking with you to learn more about this opportunity. Thank you for your time and consideration

Patricia Roy

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60+ Cover Letter Examples in 2024 [For All Professions]

No matter where you are in your career, or what job you’re applying for, submitting a cover letter with your resume is a must . 

Done right, a cover letter will effectively complement your resume and explain to the hiring manager in more detail why you’re the right person for the job.

Writing a cover letter, however, is easier said than done. 

You have to effectively demonstrate that you’ll be able to perform the responsibilities listed in the job description and that you’d be a better fit for the company compared to other candidates. 

And unless you’re a professional writer, this can be a very hard task.

Fortunately, we created these cover letter examples to inspire you and help you get started with your own cover letter!

Let’s dive in!

21 Cover Letter Examples 

#1. career change cover letter example .

Here’s what this cover letter does right:

• Has an ideal length. This cover letter includes all the relevant information for the hiring manager without getting into too much detail.
• Relevant introduction. The candidate explains that they’re changing careers and why they want to work in this new field from the get-go.
• Explains their related experience. The candidate explains how their previous experience in retail sales can help them succeed in PR.

Check out our guide video guide to learn how to write a Cover Letter that gets you HIRED!

#2. Recent Graduate Cover Letter Example 

• Personally greets the hiring manager. The candidate has taken the time to find the hiring manager’s name and address them by it, which makes the opening of the cover letter much more personal.
• Wraps up with a call to action. The candidate wraps up the cover letter by suggesting a meeting with the hiring manager, which makes them more memorable.
• Explains why the candidate is the right person for the internship. In this cover letter for an internship , the candidate explains how they’ve previously interned in a different firm, which gives them the experience to succeed in this role.

Have you just graduated from college? Make sure to check out our guide on writing an entry-level cover letter from start to finish! 

#3. Middle Management Cover Letter Example

• Use of bullet points. The candidate presents the information in a concise and reader-friendly way, making it easy for the hiring manager to find their key achievements. 
• Formal closing. The candidate has used a formal and polite tone to conclude their cover letter, which combined with a call to action makes them look professional and passionate about getting the job. 
• Explains how the company would benefit from hiring them. The candidate outlines exactly what they could do for the company, which not only highlights their skills but also shows they’ve done their research on the company’s needs. 

#4. Business Manager Cover Letter Example

• Detailed header. In addition to the must-have contact details, this candidate has also included their professional Twitter and LinkedIn profiles, making it easy for the hiring manager to look more closely into their career. 
• Concise and to the point. This candidate has used short paragraphs and bullet points to make the cover letter easy to skim through. 
• Wraps up with a call to action. By letting the hiring manager know they’ll be contacting them soon, they’re more likely to make an impression.

Check out this article for a complete writing guide and an inspiring business manager resume sample. 

#5. Ph.D. Cover Letter Example

Here’s what this cover letter does right: 

• Attention-grabbing introduction. In the opening paragraph, this candidate explains why they’re passionate about pursuing a Ph.D. in great detail. 
• Explains the candidate’s qualifications in detail. The candidate builds on their passion by explaining how they’re also qualified for the degree because of their education history and academic achievements. 

#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

• Professional and minimalistic template. This senior executive has used a professional but minimalistic template that lets their work experience do the talking. 
• Achievement-oriented opening paragraph. Right from the get-go, this candidate explains what makes them so good at their job, effectively grabbing the hiring manager’s attention.  
• Wraps up with a call to action. By suggesting to have a meeting and discussing how they can help the company meet its goals, the candidate stands more chance to make a positive lasting impression. 

#7. Architect Cover Letter Example 

• Modern resume template. This architect has picked a template that perfectly matches his industry, as it is professional and modern at the same time. 
• A personal greeting to the HR. They address the hiring manager by their first name, which helps make a better first impression. 
• Measurable achievements. By quantifying their achievements, the candidate proves their achievements instead of just claiming them.

Struggling with your architect resume ? Check out our full guide!

#8. Business Analyst Cover Letter Example 

• Detailed contact information. The candidate has listed both their LinkedIn and Twitter profiles, providing the HR manager an opportunity to learn more about the candidate.  
• Mentions what the candidate can do for the company. This cover letter doesn’t just explain why the job would be great for the candidate, but also how the candidate would benefit the company. Win-win, right? 
• Error-free and reader-friendly. It’s super important for the cover letter to have no spelling or grammatical errors and be reader-friendly. This candidate made sure they did both.

Need a resume alongside your cover letter? Check out our guide on how to write a business analyst resume . 

#9. Consultant Cover Letter Example 

• Professional cover letter template. Being an experienced consultant, this candidate has picked a professional template that doesn’t steal the spotlight from their achievements. 
• Experience and achievement-oriented. The candidate has effectively elaborated on their top achievements relevant to the job. 
• Highlights the candidate’s passion. To show they want the job, this candidate has also explained how passionate they are about their profession.

For more advice on landing a job as a consultant, check out our guide to writing a consultant resume .

#10. Digital Marketing Cover Letter Example

• Creative cover letter template. This digital marketer highlights their originality by picking a creative cover letter template. 
• Lists the candidate’s awards. The candidate has taken advantage of the cover letter to list their most noteworthy awards in the industry. 
• Concludes with a call to action. As they used a call to action to conclude their cover letter, the HR manager will be more likely to remember them.

Want to take your digital marketing resume to the next level? Check out our guide!

#11. Graphic Designer Cover Letter Example 

• Detailed contact information. The candidate has included additional contact information such as their website link, as well as their LinkedIn and Twitter profiles.  
• Ideal length. This cover letter is concise, which means that the HR manager is more likely to read it from start to finish.  
• Draws attention to the candidate’s strong points. Although this candidate is a recent college graduate, they’ve managed to effectively show that they have enough knowledge and experience to do the job right.

Read this guide to write a graphic designer resume that’s just as good as your cover letter!

#12. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Example

• Minimalistic cover letter template. The candidate picked a well-designed but minimalistic template for their cover letter. 
• Focused on skills and achievements. This cover letter is packed with the candidate’s skills and achievements, proving he can be an excellent employee. 
• Formal closing. Politeness can go a long way and the candidate has used this to their advantage to make an impression. 

Our article on how to write an administrative assistant resume can help you take your job application to the next level.

#13. Front Desk Cover Letter Example

• Modern cover letter template. This template incorporates memorable colors and clear lines, which make the cover letter very visually appealing. 
• Attention-grabbing introduction. Using an attention-grabbing intro, the candidate is more likely to make an impression. 
• Calls the HR to action. By including a call to action, the candidate is reminding the HR of their immediate availability. 

#14. Human Resources Cover Letter Example

• It is concise and to the point. The candidate doesn’t dwell on unimportant details the HR won’t be interested in. 
• Uses a traditional cover letter template. The cover letter design is more on the conventional side, which fits the industry better. 
• Highlights the candidate’s strong points. The candidate has rich work experience and they use the cover letter to elaborate on it. 

This HR resume guide can help you get your resume just right.

#15. Sales Agent Cover Letter Example 

• Attention-grabbing cover letter template. As a salesperson, this candidate knows how important first impressions are, so they’ve picked a catchy cover letter template. 
• Has an ideal length. At the same time, they’ve also made sure to keep their cover letter at just the right length. 
• Lists the candidate’s career highlights. The candidate has made perfect use of the space by mentioning their most impressive professional achievements. 

Check out this sales agent resume guide to create an attention-grabbing sales resume .

#16. Receptionist Cover Letter Example

• Modern but minimalistic cover letter template. The template’s design hints the candidate is creative but professional at the same time. 
• Uses a catchy introduction. The candidate has used an attention-grabbing opening paragraph to catch HR’s attention. 
• Concludes the cover letter formally. The candidate proves that they’re polite and well-spoken, a quality very much important for the role they’re applying for. 

Take your receptionist resume to the next level with this receptionist resume guide .

#17. Information Technology Cover Letter Example

• Mentions measurable achievements. Numbers make an impact, which is why this candidate has included measurable achievements. 
• Lists both soft and hard skills. The candidate has mentioned a great mix of soft and hard skills, showing how well-rounded they are. 
• Contains relevant contact information. The candidate’s GitHub, website name, LinkedIn, and Twitter profiles are all great additions to the resume. 

Looking for tips to help you write a great IT resume ? Check out our guide!

#18. Real Estate Cover Letter Example

• Ideal length. Short and to the point, this cover letter is bound to get noticed by the HR manager. 
• Wraps up with a call to action. This candidate reinforces the HR to call them back through a final call to action. 
• Mentions the right skills. On top of their sales accomplishments, the candidate touch upon important soft skills such as customer service and communication . 

This real estate resume guide will help you take your resume from good to great.

#19. Teacher Cover Letter Example

• Mentions relevant contact information details. This candidate has included optional (but relevant) contact information details, such as their LinkedIn, Quora, and Medium profiles. 
• Achievement-oriented. The candidate has elaborated on their achievements in more detail throughout their cover letter. 
• Highlights the candidate’s passion. For some jobs, being passionate is much more important than for others. Teaching is one of these jobs, which is why this candidate explains their passion for the job. 

Our guide on how to write a teacher resume has all the tips you need to land the job.

#20. Project Manager Cover Letter Example

• Leverages a catchy introduction. Through a catchy introductory paragraph, this candidate is sure to grab the HR’s attention and get them to read the rest of their cover letter.
• Lists measurable accomplishments. This candidate explains exactly what they’ve achieved using numbers and hard data. 
• Personally greets the HR. A personal greeting sounds much better than “Dear Sir/Madam,” and the candidate knows this. 

This guide on how to write a project manager resume can help you perfect your appication.

#21. Paralegal Cover Letter Example

• Minimalistic cover letter template. This cover letter design looks good but doesn’t steal the show from the candidate’s abilities.
• Mentions the candidate’s academic achievements and extracurricular activities. Although the candidate is a recent graduate, they’ve used the cover letter to explain they have enough skills and achievements to do the job.
• Lists measurable achievements. The candidate proves they did well in their internship by mentioning quantifiable achievements.

Check out this paralegal resume guide to perfect yours.

40+ More Cover Letter Examples and Guides 

Couldn’t find a cover letter example for your field? Do not worry.

Below you can find a number of other cover letter examples for different fields and industries:

• Acting Cover Letter Examples
• Accounting Cover Letter Examples
• Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Architecture Cover Letter Examples
• Attorney Cover Letter Examples
• Barista Cover Letter Examples
• Bartender Cover Letter Examples
• Business Cover Letter Examples
• Business Analyst Cover Letter Examples
• College Student Cover Letter Examples
• Computer Science Cover Letter Examples
• Construction Cover Letter Examples
• Consultant Cover Letter Examples
• Customer Service Cover Letter Examples
• Data Analyst Cover Letter Examples
• Data Entry Cover Letter Examples
• Dental Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Digital Marketing Cover Letter Examples
• Elementary Teacher Cover Letter Examples
• Engineering Cover Letter Examples
• Executive Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Finance Cover Letter Examples
• Graphic Design Cover Letter Examples
• Healthcare Cover Letter Examples
• Human Resources Cover Letter Examples
• IT Cover Letter Examples
• Law Cover Letter Examples
• Management Cover Letter Examples
• Marketing Cover Letter Examples
• Mechanical Engineering Cover Letter Examples
• Medical Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Nurse Practitioner Cover Letter Examples
• Physician Cover Letter Examples
• Project Manager Cover Letter Examples
• Receptionist Cover Letter Examples
• Retail Cover Letter Examples
• Sales Cover Letter Examples
• Social Work Cover Letter Examples
• Software Engineer Cover Letter Examples
• Substitute Teacher Cover Letter Examples
• Teacher Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Team Leader Cover Letter Example

What is a Cover Letter? 

A cover letter is a one-page document that you submit as part of your job application, alongside your resume . 

Its purpose is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background. On average, your cover letter should be from 250 to 400 words long .

A good cover letter can give the hiring manager more insight into what makes you a good candidate and help them make up their mind about whether they should invite you for an interview. A bad cover letter, though, will get ignored (at best) and lose you the job (at worst).

So, to make sure this doesn’t happen, it’s essential to know how to write a convincing cover letter.

The first thing to remember is that a cover letter is a supplement to your resume, not a replacement. Meaning, you shouldn’t just repeat whatever is mentioned in your resume and call it a day. 

Optimally, you should use your cover letter to shed more light on your skills and qualifications, as well as explain anything you didn’t have space for in your resume (e.g. a career gap or why you’re changing careers).

If you’re writing a cover letter for the first time, though, putting all this together might seem pretty tough. 

Fortunately, you can follow our tried-and-tested format to make the experience much easier:

• Header - Input your contact information.
• Greeting the hiring manager - Open the cover letter with a “Dear Sir or Madam,” or use the hiring manager’s name if you know what that is.
• Opening paragraph - Grab the hiring manager’s attention by getting straight to the point. Mention what your professional experiences are, and what role you’re applying for.
• The second paragraph - Explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the job. Mention your top 2-3 achievements, your top skills, why you want to work in that specific industry, and whatever else is relevant.
• The third paragraph - End your cover letter with a call to action. E.g. “I would love to meet personally and discuss how I can help Company X.”
• Formal closing - Something like this: “Thank you for your consideration. Best, John Doe.”

Here’s what this looks like in practice:

9 Tips to Write a Cover Letter (the Right Way)

Now that we've covered the basics, let's talk about cover letter tips . Below, we'll give you all the knowledge you need to take your cover letter from "OK" to "great."

#1. Pick the right template

A good cover letter is all about leaving the right first impression.

And what’s a better way to leave a good impression than through a professional, well-formatted, and visual template?

You can simply pick one of our tried-and-tested cover letter templates and you’ll be all set!

#2. Add your contact details on the header

The best way to start your cover letter is through a header. 

Here’s what you want to include there:

• Phone Number
• Name of the hiring manager / their professional title
• Name of the company you’re applying to

Optionally, you can also include the following:

• Social Media Profiles - Any type of profile that’s relevant to your field. Social Profiles on websites like LinkedIn, GitHub (for developers), Medium (for writers), etc.
• Personal Website - If you have a personal website that somehow adds value to your application, you can mention it. Let’s say you’re a professional writer. In that case, you’d want to link to your content portfolio site or blog.

#3. Greet the hiring manager the right way

Once you’ve listed all your relevant contact information, it’s time to address the hiring manager reading your cover letter. 

A good practice here is to find the hiring manager’s name and address them directly instead of using the traditional “dear sir or madam.” This shows that you’re really invested in the company and that you took your time to do some research about the job.

So, how can you find out the hiring manager’s name?

One way to do this is by looking up the head of the company’s relevant department on LinkedIn. Let’s say you’re applying for the position of Communication Specialist at Novoresume. The hiring manager is probably the Head of Communications or the Chief Communications Office.

Or let’s say you’re applying for the position of server at a restaurant. In that case, you’d be looking to find out who the restaurant manager is.

If this doesn’t work, you can also check out the “Team” page on the company website; there’s a good chance you’ll at least find the right person there.

If you still can’t find out the hiring manager’s name, here are several other greetings you can use:

• Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
• Dear Hiring Manager
• To whom it may concern
• Dear [Department] Team

#4. Create an attention-grabbing introduction

Recruiters get hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of applications. Chances are, they’re not going to be reading every single cover letter end-to-end.

So, it’s essential to catch their attention from the very first paragraph.

The problem with most cover letter opening paragraphs, though, is that they’re usually extremely generic, often looking something like this: 

Hey, my name is Jonathan and I’d like to work as a Sales Manager at XYZ Inc. I’ve worked as a sales manager at MadeUpCompany Inc. for 5+ years, so I believe that I’d be a good fit for the position.

As you can probably tell, this opening paragraph doesn’t tell the hiring manager anything other than that you’ve worked the job before - and that’s not really helpful in setting you apart from other candidates. 

What you want to do, instead, is start off with 2-3 of your top achievements to really grab the reader’s attention. Preferably, the achievements should be as relevant as possible to the position. 

For example:

My name’s Michael and I’d like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed its sales goals as a Sales Manager. I’ve worked with Company X, a fin-tech company, for 3+ years. As a Sales Representative, I generated an average of $30,000+ in sales per month (beating the KPIs by around 40%). I believe that my previous industry experience, as well as my excellence in sales, makes me the right candidate for the role of X at Company Y.

The second example shows how the candidate is a top performer. The first just shows that they’ve worked a sales job before.

Which one are YOU more likely to invite for an interview?

#5. Show you’re the perfect person for the job

One great thing about cover letters is that they allow you to expand more on the top achievements from your resume and really show the hiring manager that you’re the right person for the job. 

A good way to do that is to first read the job ad and really understand what skills/experiences are required, and then to ensure that your cover letter touches upon the said skills or experiences.

In my previous role as a Facebook Marketing Expert at XYZ Inc. I handled customer acquisition through ads, managing a monthly Facebook ad budget of $20,000+. As the sole digital marketer at the company, I managed the ad creation and management process end-to-end. This means I created the ad copy and images, as well as picked the targeting, ran optimization trials, and so on.

Other than Facebook advertising, I’ve also delved into other online PPC channels, including:

• Google Search

#6. Explain why you’re a great company fit

The HR manager doesn’t only look at whether you’ll be good at the job or not. They’re looking for someone that’s also a good fit for the company culture.

After all, employees that don’t fit in are bound to quit, sooner or later. This ends up costing the company a ton of money, up to 50% of the employee’s annual salary . 

To convince the hiring manager that you’re a great company fit, do some research on the company and find out what it is you like about them, or about working there. You want to know things like:

• What’s the company’s business model?
• What’s the company's product or service? Have you used it?
• What’s the culture like? Will someone micro-manage your work, or will you have autonomy on how you get things done?

Then, turn your top reasons for liking to work there into text and add them to your cover letter! 

#7. Wrap up with a call to action

To make the end of your cover letter as memorable as possible, you want to:

• Wrap up any points you couldn't in the previous paragraphs. Mention anything you’ve left out that you think could help the hiring manager make up your mind.
• Thank the hiring manager for their time. After all, it never hurts to be polite. 
• Finish the cover letter with a call to action. A call to action is a great way to make your cover letter ending as memorable as possible. 

#8. Write a formal closing

Once you’re done with the final paragraph, all you have to do is write down a formal “goodbye” and you’re good to go.

Feel free to use one of the most popular conclusions in a cover letter:

• Best Regards,
• Kind Regards,

#9. Proofread your cover letter

Last but not least, make sure to always proofread each and every document that you’ll be including in your job application - cover letter included. 

The last thing you want is to be claiming you’re a great candidate for the job with a cover letter full of typos! 

For an even more comprehensive guide on how to write an impactful cover letter , check out our article ! 

Cover Letter Writing Checklist 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you still have some questions about cover letters? Check out the answers below:

1. How do I write a simple cover letter? 

To write a cover letter that’s simple but also professional, make sure to include a header with your personal information, a formal greeting to the hiring manager, an attention-grabbing opening paragraph, a second paragraph explaining why you’re a good candidate for the job, and a formal closing (preferably with a call to action). 

2. What are the 3 parts of a cover letter? 

The three parts of a cover letter are: 

• The introduction , namely the header, the greeting to the hiring manager, and the opening paragraph. 
• The sales pitch is usually the body of the cover letter. 
• The conclusion involves a formal closing and a signature line.

3. What makes a great cover letter?

A great cover letter should be personalized for each job you’re applying for, instead of being overly generic. It’s also preferable to address the hiring manager by their name and not use the overly-used “Dear Sir/Madam.”

To make a great first impression, you should mention 1-2 of your top achievements in your opening paragraph - the more job-specific they are, the better. Also, don’t stop at showing the hiring manager why you’re a great candidate for the job. Make sure to also talk about how you’re a good culture fit for the company.

Last but not least, wrap up your closing paragraph with a call to action to give the hiring manager a little extra something to remember you by. 

4. When is a cover letter necessary?

Unless the job ad specifically states otherwise, you should always include a cover letter with your job application .

Even if the hiring manager doesn’t read it, you will look more professional simply by including one.

And that’s a wrap! We hope our cover letter examples and writing tips will inspire you to write a cover letter that will land you your next job.

If you’re looking for more invaluable career advice and articles, make sure to check out our career blog , or any of these related articles: 

• How to Write a Resume
• Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid at All Costs
• Cover Letter Format (w/ Examples & Free Templates)

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• Campus Management

Does a Cover Letter Really Matter In 2024?

Are you still writing those one-page cover letters? You likely have wondered: What’s the point of cover letters? Don’t cover letters just summarize the resume but in letter format?

Cover letters started out as persuasive essays of sorts on the simple topic: Why should they hire you? While the purpose of the cover letter has evolved, the goal of how you write your cover letter really depends. But should you risk leaving that “optional” cover letter field and just type one out? Can you get a cover letter template down and use it on every job post? Can cover letters be written by AI? A ChatGPT cover letter? Decisions, decisions!

Many companies have ditched the whole cover letter. Finally!  But there are still a few stragglers out there that demand a cover letter or make it optional, but it’s still there . So, how important are cover letters in 2024?

Lucky us, the age of those novel-length cover letters, complete with “Dear sir or madam,” has gracefully retired. A round of applause, please! Doesn’t mean that employers don’t want a persuasive story backed with evidence from your reumse, just means that they got no time for a thesis. So how do you tackle it?

Cover letter Templates?

If you Google this, you’ll get millions of results. Here’s an example by kickresume. How do you pick a cover letter template?

Rule of thumb: brevity is your best buddy. Toss those outdated cover letter templates into the nostalgia bin. We’re talking 200 to 400 words, an elevator pitch. 

What do you actually write in a cover letter? Why you’re hyped about the gig, sprinkle in your career goals, and flaunt your victories with confidence. 63% of people in the Resume Lab survey say that sharing your why with the company is key. So, do that and highlight what you bring to the table for the company and how this job aligns with your career goals. And while you can absolutely use AI to write your cover letter, we strongly recommend that you only use the output as a guide and not a template. While AI is good, AI detectors are catching up real fast. You don’t want them to toss your application because of something like this! Make sure you sound human and genuine.

Should you go that EXTRA mile? 

If the job description’s playing coy about needing a cover letter, should you still serve one up? 

Word on the street is, about 75% of recruiting managers are still expecting that extra dash of effort. Even if they skim your letter faster than you do reels, your dedication doesn’t go unnoticed. 

Plus: A killer cover letter can be your knight in shining armor if your resume is still in training wheels mode. According to Resume Lab, 83% of hiring recruiters think your slick cover letter can land you an interview pass even if your resume’s a bit meh.

If you’re suiting up for an in-person interview and the company expects a physica copy, bring along a few cover letter copies. When you’re submitting a digital job application, remember, separate PDF files for your resume and your cover letter are important. Same applies if you are applying online.

Should you repeat your resume deets on the letter? 

Short answer: No. Your resume and cover letter are like peanut butter and jelly. They should complement each other, not be the same thing. Repeating yourself like a broken record can land your application in the “seen it, trashed it” pile. Instead, give your cover letter a spin with the spotlight on what you bring to the table and where you get it from – the skills and the experience you have that proves that you have those skills.

Last but not least, spell check like your future depends on it. Your cover letter is your verbal handshake, and trust me, typos are like spinach in your teeth during a job interview – not a good look! 

And a friendly reminder: make sure the company name isn’t playing hide-and-seek with your enthusiasm. Sending an app with the wrong name is like showing up to a party in your PJs. Not cool.

So, there you have it. The deets on the 2024 cover letter: shorter, snappier, and purposeful is the verdict.

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