what to include in cover letter uk

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How to write a cover letter.

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

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

When to include a cover letter

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

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

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

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

Send it to the right person

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

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

If you do not know their name

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

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

Introduction

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

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

Show you're right for the job

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

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

Give extra information

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

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

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

Ending your cover letter

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

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

Yours sincerely or yours faithfully

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

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

Tips for writing a cover letter

When writing your cover letter, remember to:

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

Related content

How to write a CV

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11 Cover letter templates with examples

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

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

No need to panic, though.

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

CV templates 

Basic cover letter template

Dear [Recruiter’s name],

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

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

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

Kind regards,

[Name] [Phone number] [Email]

Basic cover letter example

Short cover letter template

Hi [Recruiter name],

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

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

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

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

Short cover letter example

Admin cover letter template

Good morning [Hiring Manager],

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

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

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

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

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

Admin cover letter example

Finance cover letter template

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

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

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

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

Finance cover letter example

Sales cover letter template

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

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

Sales cover letter example

Customer service cover letter template

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

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

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

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

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

Customer service cover letter example

Project management cover letter template

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

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

Project management cover letter example

Education cover letter template

I hope you’re well.

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

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

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

Education cover letter example

Internal promotion cover letter template

Hey [Recruiter name],

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

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

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

Internal promotion cover letter example

Student cover letter template

Good morning [Recruiter name],

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

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

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

Student cover letter example

No experience cover letter template

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

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

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

Thank you for considering my application.

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

No experience cover letter example

How to write a cover letter

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

Include your cover letter within the email or message

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

“But why?”, you ask.

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

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

Tailor your greeting by directly addressing the recruiter

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

Avoid sounding overly formal or informal, though.

For instance, you could address the recruiter using:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Be personable and professional

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

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

Go for a professional, friendly tone.

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

Pinpoint your applicable skills

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

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

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

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

For instance, you could say:

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

Conclude and add a professional signature

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to write a cover letter

Skip to: 

What is a cover letter and why is it important?

When do you need a cover letter, how should you structure your cover letter, what should go in your cover letter.

A cover letter is a letter that you write about yourself and submit alongside your CV when applying for a job. Within it, you explain why you’re the right candidate for that role, based on your experience and skills. 

A potential employer might use a cover letter as an introduction to you before moving on to your CV, so it’s important to make a strong impression.

Just like you would tailor your CV to the specific role you’re applying for, you should write a cover letter with a particular job in mind. The concise structure of a CV can make it hard to stand out. But the structure of a cover letter gives you more room to showcase your skills and personality. 

A job application will tell you whether you need to include a cover letter or not. Most applications do ask you to, or some may get you to fill out some online questions instead. You probably won’t need a cover letter for a part-time job as a student, for example.

If a job description doesn’t say anything about a cover letter, play it safe and include one just in case. It’s a great opportunity to demonstrate your skills and show you’ve gone the extra mile.

A cover letter should be roughly one side of A4 and broken up into short paragraphs so it’s easy to read. Just like your CV, stick to a sensible font type, size, and colour.

Ideally, you should submit it as a PDF version with a clear filename, so it always looks the same regardless of the device it’s opened on.

Contact details

You should include the same contact information at the top of your cover letter as you would for your CV, in case it gets separated.

• phone number
• email address

Who to address your cover letter to

Ideally, you want to address your cover letter to the specific person who will be reading it. The job listing should say who this is. This might someone who works in HR or the person you will report to if you get the job.

If the job listing doesn’t clarify who this is, don’t be afraid to get in touch directly by phone or email. This shows initiative and is an early opportunity to make a personal connection, which can work in your favour.

If you’re struggling to find an individual to address your cover letter to, you should write ‘Dear Sir/Madam’ or ‘To whom it may concern’ instead.

Clarify the role you're applying to

Begin by stating the role you are applying for. Sometimes it can be useful to say how you heard about the role, whether it was on a particular website or through someone you know..

I am writing to apply for the Data Analyst position in your organisation, as advertised on your website.

Now you’ve clarified the role you’re applying for; you can highlight why you’re the right candidate for it.

Describe yourself and your experience

Next, say who you are – easy, right? You don’t need to tack on any bells and whistles.

If you’re a school or college student applying for a part-time job, say where you go to school, what year you’re in, and what you’re studying. You may want to drop in your future plans (if you have any).

I’m in my second year of my A-levels at St John’s College, studying English, biology, and drama. I've received a conditional offer from the University of Sussex to study English and drama in September.

If you’re a graduate applying for your first job out of uni – say where you’ve graduated from, your qualification and grade.

I’m a graduate of the University of Sussex with a first class bachelor’s degree in English and Drama.

If you've taken a gap year, include what you did and how this has made you a stronger candidate for the role.

For example

I’ve spent the last six months volunteering in Ethiopia, leading a missionary programme – a role that’s been personally fulfilling, and has equipped me with a range of skills that I’m excited to bring to a role like this, including motivating a team and problem-solving.

If you’re currently working and applying for another job, outline the field you’ve been working in, including some of your key responsibilities.

I’ve been working in digital marketing for a charity for the past three years. My main responsibilities are email marketing, social media management, and content creation.

By highlighting a few of the areas you’ve been involved with, you may be kept in mind for another role if you're unsuccessful here.

Why you’re looking for a new role

You will want to touch on why you’re applying to this role, especially if you’re currently employed. Below are some tips about tailoring this to the role you're applying to.

• Do you want to move into a new field? Perhaps one that you’ve had a taste of and really enjoyed? 
• Do you want to do the same role, but in a different sector, such as moving from a commercial business to a charity? 
• Are you looking for more responsibility which you can’t get in your current role to progress on to a long-term goal? 
• Have your personal circumstances changed? An example would be relocating to be closer to family.

Demonstrate your key achievements

Now it’s time to show what you’ve done or achieved up to now, and how this makes you the perfect fit for the role in question (including any standout achievements or stats to back this up).

Don’t forget to relate these to the key skills or knowledge that have been set out in the job description and use the extra space to elaborate on these. Don’t just repeat your CV word for word.

• If you’re a school/college student applying for a part-time job or a degree apprenticeship, what have you achieved in your studies that demonstrates these key skills?
• Have you won any awards or come top in your year in your exams – this would show your work ethic. Have you headed up any clubs or societies where you’ve had to be organised, or lead by example?
• Are you involved in any societies or sports teams where you’ve worked closely with and motivated others?
• Have you completed any volunteering or internships?

As editor of the university newspaper, I was responsible for overseeing the production of over 40 issues, including sourcing exciting new contributors and managing strict budgets. In that time, the paper won several awards for its investigation into X.

If you’re currently working and applying for another job, you’ll have already mentioned the general areas you have experience in, but now it’s time to highlight the impact you’ve made.

After just a few months of completing the company’s graduate scheme, I was promoted to the role of account manager for several clients across different sectors, involving planning, implementing, and reporting on all their paid display activity. While it was challenging, I’ve continued to meet key targets. My ability to manage clients’ expectations satisfactorily was pulled out as a key strength in a recent client review survey.

You might want to back this up with key statistics:

One client has seen sign-ups climb 31% in a year since I’ve led on their account, resulting in a 5% growth in annual revenue.

Or being part of a project that's been big news in your field.

I was part of the team that worked on Project X, which received critical acclaim within the X industry. I was specifically responsible for overseeing X, Y, and Z in this project. This wonderful experience early in my career was capped off by winning an X award for Y.

Why that company/organisation/field?

This is your opportunity to show you’ve taken some initiative, done your research, and are passionate about getting this role especially. You want to prove this isn’t just another application you’ve churned out. Is there something about this role that makes it stand out from similar roles elsewhere?

The chance to apply my skills and collaborate with Dr Jane Smith and her team is one I couldn’t let slip. Also, the opportunities to grow in this organisation through X, Y, and Z fill me with confidence.

Is the organisation entering a particularly significant period that you’re keen to be a part of (and most importantly, that you feel you can contribute to in a big way)?

The organisation’s expansion into South America is something I would be thrilled to be a part of. My sixth-month stint in Mexico delivering the X project gave me a whole new perspective on this market but was all too short. Returning to the continent with the experience I now have would be a fresh, exciting challenge.

Is the role or organisation involved in something you’re personally invested in?

A family member’s recent experience with X has given me a whole new appreciation of the work Y do. I have been volunteering for Z for the past six months, something that has been a great source of fulfilment. To contribute further in a professional capacity would be all the more rewarding, while I believe my distinctive perspective would benefit the work I do and the organisation as a result.

This is where it may help to mention any ambitions or goals you have for the future, although be careful not to take your eye off the role you’re applying for.

Conclusion: reiterate with impact

Finish up with a short, punchy conclusion reiterating some of the key aspects you’ve outlined above.

Do this in a way that will make an employer excited to meet you for an interview (or at least get across your enthusiasm to meet them and learn more about the role).

If you’ve addressed your cover letter to a specific individual, sign off with ‘Yours sincerely.' If you don’t know the name of the recipient, stick to ‘Yours faithfully.'

You might also like to read

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Sample cover letter

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

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

The basic cover letter structure covers:

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

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

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

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

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

5th May 2023

Dear Mr Smith

Re: Logistics graduate scheme

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

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

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

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

I have also:

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

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

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely

(Sign your name here)

Find out more

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

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How to write a cover letter that stands out

10 min read | Jane McNeill | Article | Job searching | CV & Cover letters

What should a job application cover letter include? Learn what to include – and what to leave out – with our cover letter basics guide.

Writing a cover letter to accompany your job application can really help you stand out in the mind of a hiring manager or recruiter. Taking the time and effort to write one positions you as a proactive candidate who is genuinely interested in the role you’ve applied for.

Before we begin – let’s go back to basics; what is a cover letter? This is a document that candidates sometimes submit alongside their CVs when applying for a job. It serves as a personal introduction to you as a professional and enables you to briefly summarise why you are the right person for the job. The reader can then find out more about you in your CV.

But not all candidates make the effort to write a tailored and personalised cover letter. So, if you do, it’s more likely that you will catch the attention of the reader. As Jodi Glickman, a communications expert and author of "Great on the Job", has observed: “Not sending a cover letter is a sign of laziness. It’s akin to making spelling and grammar mistakes in your resume. You just don’t do it.”

How to write a cover letter at a glance

Your cover letter needs to communicate that you are genuinely interested in the opportunity – and why. This means the letter needs to be tailored, and not just a standard letter that you’ve edited. 

Here, then, are some of the things you should and shouldn’t do when writing yours.

What should a job application cover letter include?

• Do your research before you start writing. This will help to give you a clue about the appropriate tone to use in the cover letter and the points you should include. Look at such factors as the organisation’s industry, culture and values. Explore sources like the organisation’s official website and social media profiles, its executives’ social media profiles and any online employee reviews.
• Personalise it. This information is easier to find than it has ever been before. There’s no excuse for getting any names wrong or not addressing the cover letter personally to the hiring manager. And certainly, don’t just copy and paste your cover letter for every position you apply for – make it personal and targeted every time. It’ll be obvious to an employer if you’ve just edited a few words of the same cover letter that you send to everyone else, which may suggest you have little real interest in the vacancy.
• Start with a strong intro to hook the reader in . The first sentence of the cover letter will either grab the hiring manager’s attention or lose it. It needs to powerfully demonstrate that you understand what they are looking for and need. Instantly communicate your unique selling points that will help to solve the hiring manager’s problems, such as relevant industry know-how, skills, experience and achievements, instead of the generic “I’m applying for the role of XXX.”
• If you’ve come across this opportunity via a friend or have a previous connection with the organisation, mention it. Maybe you were previously introduced to the hiring manager by this person because they thought you were a good fit for the role. Or perhaps you crossed paths as an intern or an employee at one of the company’s suppliers or competitors?
• Optimise the subject line if you can . Also, check the job description again – the employer might ask applicants to include something specific in the subject line, for example.
• Use keywords mentioned in the job description , but don’t keyword-stuff in the hope that your application will get picked up in any applicant tracking software (ATS) – it is possible to overdo your use of keywords!
• Include your contact information including your name, phone number, email address and LinkedIn URL.
• Sign off professionally . Conclude the main body of the cover letter with a power phrase such as, “I would like to discuss in greater detail the value I could bring to your organisation,” and close with the formal and widely accepted “Best regards” or “Sincerely”.
• Spell check and ensure the formatting is correct . If you’re submitting your cover letter as an attachment online, write it in a Word document so that the program can flag up obvious issues like misspellings. Also, check that any formatting in Word translates properly into the email or online form. In terms of formatting, break any intimidating blocks of text into more readable paragraphs and bullet points.
• If possible, put your cover letter and CV in the same document , which will help to avoid your cover letter being misplaced if the employer uses an automated online applicant tracking system.  

What not to do when writing your cover letter

• Don’t drone on – keep it succinct . The reader is interested in concrete facts rather than quirkiness or clichés.
• Don’t overlook the finer points . Have you taken the time to find out the name of the recipient so that you can address the cover letter to them personally? What about confirming your availability towards the end of the letter, and signing off appropriately? It’s small touches like these that could really help you to stand out from other candidates.
• Don’t just repeat what you’ve said on your CV or LinkedIn profile – a cover letter should be complementary to these other means of marketing yourself professionally, and should therefore support and enhance your story. What is it about your hobbies, interests and background that made you especially interested in this position?
• Don’t go overboard with the flattery , as this could risk you coming across as insecure, insincere or sycophantic. Professionalism, maturity and authenticity are vital qualities to communicate from the beginning of your relationship with the employer.
• Don’t write in the third person . A cover letter is, after all, a letter, addressed directly to the employer. You are using this document to sell yourself. While a cover letter’s tone of voice should be professional, it should also be sufficiently conversational to engage the reader and communicate your personality, values and interest in the role.
• Don’t use WordArt or unusual fonts. Use a standard professional font like Arial, which is readable and clean. This isn’t just about making the right impression on hiring managers and lessening their eye strain, as the automated scanning systems used by applicant tracking systems can also sometimes struggle with more unusual fonts.  

How to write a cover letter

While the purpose of the cover letter has never changed, the way it is presented and submitted has evolved. For example, cover letters can now take the form of a personalised note to add to your LinkedIn application or an email attaching your CV.

Your cover letter needs to communicate that you are genuinely interested in the opportunity that the given role represents and why. This means the letter needs to be tailored, and not just a standard letter that you’ve edited. Here below is an example of how your cover letter should look.  

Example job application cover letter

                                                                                                            45 King Edward Street                                                                                                             Name                                                                                                             Phone Number                                                                                                             Email                                                                                                             LinkedIn URL Organisation Name Address Date

Dear Mr Carl Smith, Subject line : Experienced senior manager for X position

I was previously introduced to your company by your colleague, Susan Bainbridge, at the recent X trade fair, and became particularly intrigued by the work you do and the culture of the business. Subsequently, I was especially excited to see the role of X recently advertised on your website.

I believe my 15 years as a senior manager for one of the biggest names in the X sector, overseeing a 25 per cent rise in revenues over the last half-decade, uniquely equips me to build upon the experience I already have, apply my knowledge and skills to the role of X, and dedicate myself wholeheartedly to your business.  

From reviewing the job description, I believe that I am a great match for this role and could become a key team player in helping your business to attain its ambitions. Pinsent Media is at a similar stage of its development to my present employer when I began my role with them, and I would love nothing more than to be able to help drive similarly incredible growth and success for your business.  

I would like to draw your attention to the following skills and achievements that I would appreciate the opportunity to build on as your brand’s next X:

• Exceptional people, resource and process skills that have helped to drive consistent and measurable improvements in the company’s productivity, performance and sales in my present role – all skills that are well-matched to Pinsent Media’s search for an X with a “proven track record” in these areas
• An influential player in the transformation of my present company from a small business generating £2.2 million in annual revenue with an 18-member staff team, into one of the most thriving and respected firms in its industry, employing 48 staff and recording revenue of £26.2 million last year. I would be delighted to draw upon my skills and contacts to further Pinsent Media’s own ambitious growth objectives
• The conceptualisation and establishment of such strategic initiatives as X, X and X, as reported by Forbes and HuffPost and driving the company to new heights of operational success. These achievements are highly relevant to Pinsent Media’s intention for its next X to assist in significantly expanding its international media profile and reputation for innovation.

Thank you for your consideration. I have attached my CV and look forward to speaking to you further about this opportunity.

Yours sincerely, Simon M. Taylor  

What you need to remember about cover letters

The principle of a successful cover letter is simple: it needs to be sufficiently interesting to an employer to leave them feeling compelled to find out more by reading your CV. Hopefully, they’ll then decide to call you in. By following the above advice, you can help to make yourself a more attractive candidate so that you have a greater likelihood of being shortlisted for an interview.

Updating your CV? Our CV writing tips and advice will help you get started. You can also contact your local Hays recruitment consultant to discuss your career options.

About this author

Jane McNeill, Director, Hays Australia

Jane McNeill joined Hays in 1987 as a graduate trainee in their London head office after graduating with an MA (Hons) in Psychology from Edinburgh University. She began her career recruiting accountancy & finance professionals, before spending 11 years recruiting senior permanent professionals for London’s banking & finance sector. During this time, she quickly progressed through management roles and in 1992 she was appointed Director after leading the London city business to a phenomenal post-recession recovery.

Jane transferred to Perth, Western Australia, in 2001. Over the next decade, she grew Hays’ business in that state from a team of 15 to nearly 250 staff. She also established and managed Hays’ banking & financial services business.

She was appointed to the Hays Australia & New Zealand management board in 2007. Now based in Sydney, Jane oversees Hays’ operations in both NSW and WA. She is responsible for 400 staff located in two states that are separated by a five-hour flight and a three-hour time difference. At the same time, she retains her keen interest and passion in banking & financial services recruitment by adding national responsibility for Hays Banking and Hays Insurance to her remit.

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• CV and Cover Letter
• What should a cover letter...

What should a cover letter include? Start with these essentials

7 min read · Updated on May 31, 2022

Here's what you should put in a cover letter.

Whatever work you normally do, you become a salesperson when you start job hunting – and your product is yourself. Think of your cover letter as the glossy brochure you can use to promote yourself to prospective employers and hiring managers. But before you start writing, you have to know what to include in a successful cover letter to make it stand out from all the others. The essential elements of a great cover letter include:

Your contact information

An address to the HR manager

An introduction, including the company and role you are applying for

A description of why you're a good fit for the role

Your relevant experience and skills

A conclusion and signoff, professional-looking contact information.

Your cover letter and CV should contain essential details , including both your phone number and email address at least. Also consider adding links to relevant social media profiles such as LinkedIn during the job search . Beware though, because some kinds of contact information can hurt you instead of help you. 

For example, having the email address [email protected] might give you and your friends a giggle, but it won't impress a hiring manager.

If your email address is even faintly dubious, set up a new, professional-sounding one to put on your cover letter and CV. Using your name in your email address is a surefire way to give it a professional tone: [email protected], [email protected].

If you're currently employed, don't use your work email address or phone number on your cover letter; that's an excellent way to lose your current job before you're ready to change employers. Even if your boss knows about your job hunt, they won't be thrilled about your use of company resources to do it.

An address to the hiring manager

Your cover letter is exactly that: a letter. That means you are writing to someone, and your letter should be addressed appropriately. You may have come across a number of suggestions for how to address your cover letter: 'Dear Hiring Manager' and 'To Whom It May Concern' are two favourites. However, there is only one truly correct way to address your cover letter , and that's to the HR manager themself.

Finding the hiring manager's name isn't always easy, but it is always worth it. If it isn't directly on the job posting, start with the company website. There may be a directory that will help you find the right person. If that doesn't work, head to LinkedIn. You can browse through the "People" tab of the company's own page to search through employees, where you may be able to deduce who will be reading your cover letter.

An introduction

Time is tight for recruiters and HR managers, so it's important for job seekers to grab their attention quickly. This is possible through the introduction in your opening paragraph.

Appropriately, you should start by introducing yourself to the HR manager with your name. You should also mention the name of the company and role you are applying for. From there, you can go into your elevator pitch.

Your pitch should provide a brief summary of who you are, what you do and why the other person should care. Keep in mind that the first person to read your cover letter will likely be a human resources employee rather than someone in your own field, so industry-specific words and acronyms may fly right over their head.

For example, let's say you are a website developer with top-notch coding skills. Whilst you're no doubt proud of your technical expertise, throwing a bunch of programming jargon into your opener will just make a hiring manager's eyes glaze over. Instead, consider something like:

I'm a website developer who provides companies with cutting-edge, award-winning websites that customers love.

Now that's a pitch that might make even the most non-technical hiring manager sit up and take notice.

A description of why you're right for the role

Now, get into specifics. As you begin, it's important to remember your primary goal: to grab the hiring manager's attention and demonstrate why you are a good fit for the opening.

Start your cover letter template with your background. If you are a younger job seeker, you can talk about your schooling ‒ modules, dissertations or even extra-curricular activities that speak to your goals. If you are more established in your career, focus on the defining elements of your professional history, such as your areas of expertise. Leverage your professional interests and any unique perspectives you have on the industry.

All of these details can help illustrate the career path you've set out for yourself, which should align with the open position at hand. As you go about it, don't shy away from narration. Whilst you shouldn't write an autobiography, describing yourself as a professional is key to showing that you're a fit.

Once you show that you are compatible with the role and team, you still have to prove that you're qualified. To do this, share highlights from your experience or examples of your professional skills. Most likely, you will write about projects or situations you've encountered in your professional history. Give a brief description of what you faced, how you approached it and the result you achieved.

Just like customising your CV for a specific job vacancy , your cover letter should be tailored to the role for which you are applying. Therefore, choose details that speak directly to the position. One strategy is to analyse the job advert and identify keywords that seem essential to the job. Incorporate them into your cover letter to ensure that it is specific to each application.

As you do this, remember that your unique cover letter should not be a regurgitation of your CV. Whilst you may recycle some of the information, it should be written differently to be more conversational (whilst remaining professional).

The closing paragraph of your cover letter should have three elements. First, restate your interest in the role, and include a mention of your greatest selling point for why you think you would excel. Then, thank the HR manager for their consideration. Finally, add a call to action. A statement like 'I look forward to hearing from you' shows that you are proactive and ready to take the next steps in the hiring process.

Finish off the letter with a professional but friendly signoff and your name. 'Sincerely', 'Best' and another thank you are a few of the many good options for outros.

Writing a good cover letter

Now that you know what to include in a cover letter, it's time to fire up your favourite word processing program and start writing. Once you've written one really good letter, you can use it as a template for others – but you still need to take the time to customise each and every cover letter you submit.

A generic-sounding letter ‒ or worse, one that includes bits of information from a previous job application – will get binned. One that clearly shows the recruiter both your excellent qualifications and your professionalism, however, can move you up to the next stage of the hiring process.

Make sure your CV is as strong as your cover letter. Get a free CV review to find out where yours stands.

This article was updated in September 2020. It was originally written by Wendy Connick.

Recommended Reading:

Do recruiters actually read cover letters anymore?

The worst ways to address a cover letter

Are a CV and cover letter the same?

Related Articles:

Writing a 16-year-old's CV: tips & examples

How to list publications on a CV (with examples)

How to leverage ChatGPT for your job search in 2024

See how your CV stacks up.

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3 Keys to Writing Cover Letters That Stand Out

• Share This: Share 3 Keys to Writing Cover Letters That Stand Out on Facebook Share 3 Keys to Writing Cover Letters That Stand Out on LinkedIn Share 3 Keys to Writing Cover Letters That Stand Out on X

3 Keys to Writing Cover Letters That Stand Out was originally published on Vault .

It's a myth that high quality job openings are few and far between thanks to Covid. The truth is, despite the economic uncertainty created by the pandemic, there are many great openings out there. And to get them—or, at least, have a chance at getting them—you first need to capture the attention of hiring managers. And the best way to do that is to write compelling cover letters. So here are the three keys to writing cover letters that stand out.

1. Convey your personality, quirks and all.

Showcasing your uniqueness and allowing your personality to shine through in your cover letters can magnetize hiring managers, sending instant messages that you might be the candidate they're looking for. The secret to achieving this is to use specific details, rather than vague ones.

For example, the following was recently used by an applicant when applying for a Head of Marketing position (shortly after sending this, the candidate was interviewed and then hired):

“I have a passion for data and analytics. I enjoy spending (a little too much time) geeking out in Google analytics, advertising platforms, and BI tools (Tableau and Looker), digging deep into data to identify opportunities that can be leveraged to drive growth and inform testing strategies for campaigns, websites, and products.”

Now compare the above to the below (which has less personality and fewer details, and thus would likely not stand out):

“I am well versed in data analytics, and I am experienced with Google analytics, BI Tools, and other advertising platforms. I have a proven ability to inform testing strategies for campaigns for websites and products.”

Here's another example of cover letter phrasing that captures the attention of hiring managers:

“I'm rather obsessed with personal organization. I read three organizational blogs on my own time, and I've organized my desktop folders into color-coded sub-categories. My friends laugh at me for saying things like, ‘An organized space equals an organized mind,' but I don't like wasting time looking for things.” 

Now compare that to this less specific phrasing:

“I have a proven track record of being organized, and I have a passion for it. I have a proven knack for keeping files organized on an ongoing basis, and I have put organizational processes and procedures in place for my department. The bottom line is organization is always my highest priority.” 

2. Prove your level of dedication to your profession.

Another way to stand out is to illustrate specific things about your dedication to your field. In the following example, a candidate showcases her dedication to her profession, proves that she spends a lot of time thinking about driving results in her field, and shows that she takes concrete steps in order to be a high quality contributor in her field. All of which goes a long way when it comes time for hiring managers to decide which candidates to interview. 

“I believe that a good marketing strategy requires seeking out the latest trends and staying one step ahead of the competition. I've attended the Traction conference two years in a row and completed the 2018 Reforge Growth Series, a highly credible and exclusive course that only accepts 10 percent of applicants and is built by leaders from Hubspot, Uber, and other firms. Through these professional developments, I've opened my mind to uncommon marketing methods, and I pride myself on thinking outside the box to develop strategies that create sustainable, low-cost customer acquisition loops that lead to long-term positive ROI.” 

Now compare the above to the below, which is less detailed and includes less specific phrasing:

“I have the skills and requirements for this position, and I believe I would complete every task asked of me to the highest standard expected. My background and experience make me an excellent fit for this position for many reasons. I am very interested in marketing, and I think I would be a great asset to the team.”

3. Include concrete, quantitative results that show your value.

In any written application, you'll need to showcase some form of quantitative results to stand out. Note that even if you don't have a lot of shiny results in your career yet (or even any relevant experience—which is okay!), you can still use words to capture someone's attention with what you have done. And if you do have a record of achieving quantifiable results, then by all means include them, like in the below:

“I developed several Google ad campaigns that were worth more than $500,000 and that resulted in high-level customers. Also, through testing and optimization, I increased newsletter sign-ups by more than 200 percent.”

Now compare that to this bland sentence:

“I have experience in Google ad campaigns, as well as experience in testing and optimization.”

A final note

When trying to convey your personality, get across your dedication, or communicate your value, there's a big difference between saying you're a good fit for the job and actually showing it.

So, when writing your cover letters, try to hold these words in mind: I know you (the hiring managers) don't know me, so let me show you exactly why I'm completely invested, committed, and passionate about doing this specific type of work. And let me show you the specific reasons why hiring me, over all other candidates, would be beneficial to you.

If you hold all this in mind, the right details and words will flow right out of you—and into your cover letters.

Natalie Fisher is best known for helping professionals land their ideal roles and achieve explosive salary growth (even with little experience). If you want to dive deeper on the topic of your career mindset and become a person who knows exactly how to land their dream job offer, listen to her on the podcast Get a Six Figure Job You Love .