Unsure how to write a cover letter for your resume? Check out our top tips and advice, from formatting to content, to ensure you make the best impression with potential employers. Jump straight to our cover letter examples if you want to see one in action.
Intro List – What does an expert have to say?
- Research the company and job you want
- Focus on what you will do
- Start with why this job is exciting to you
- Highlight your value
- Show your personality
- Tone must be mature
- Keep it brief
- Show you can address a current challenge
- Ask a friend
What is the purpose of a cover letter?
A cover letter is a document that introduces you and your qualifications to an employer. It is usually sent along with your resume when you are applying for a job. The cover letter gives you an opportunity to present yourself as a well-qualified candidate and to highlight some of your key strengths and accomplishments.
Cover note vs cover letter:
A cover note is just a short and sweet email or letter that tells an employer you’re interested in the role and why they should consider your application. Whereas a cover letter is usually longer (around one page) and contains more detailed information. In most cases, you’ll want to go with a cover letter.
Have a look at our cover letter sample
Have a look at a job specific – Cover letter for scrum master
Is a motivational letter the same as a cover letter?
No, it’s not the same. A cover letter is the most common type of letter used when applying for a job. It introduces you to the employer and highlights your relevant skills and qualifications. A motivational letter, on the other hand, is a more personal type of letter. It focuses on your motivation for applying for the job and expands on your skills and qualities.
Must I have experience to write a great cover letter?
You don’t need years’ of experience to write a great cover letter – but you do need to be able to sell yourself well. Highlight any transferable skills or relevant coursework, even if they’re not directly related to the job you’re applying for. And if you don’t have much experience, focus on your motivation and enthusiasm for the role.
How to write a cover letter?
There’s no one-size-fits-all template for a cover letter – but there are some general guidelines you can follow.
Start by introducing yourself, and state the specific role you’re interested in. Then, highlight your most relevant qualifications and experiences, giving concrete examples where possible. Wrap up by thanking the employer for their time and expressing your interest in hearing back from them soon. Consider your tone and always be professional and mature. Never make jokes.
How long must a cover letter be?
When it comes to writing a cover letter, less is more. Keep your sentences short and to the point and avoid any superfluous language. Be sure to proofread your letter carefully before hitting “send”. There’s nothing that will turn off a potential employer faster than a typo or grammatical error.
What is a number one tip for a successful cover letter hiring staff will love?
Our number one tip for writing a cover letter that will get you hired is personalise it as much as possible. A simple cover letter should convey that you can solve a challenge the company has. Generic letters are easy for hiring managers to spot, so take the time to tailor yours to each specific job you’re applying for. Mention commonalities between you and the company or highlight specific qualifications that make you a perfect fit for the role.
Do employers really care about cover letters?
Yes, most employers still expect to see a cover letter attached to your resume especially if it’s a part of the application process. It also shows the employer that you take the job opportunity seriously and are prepared to take more initiative to be considered for the position.
What does “Indeed” thinks about employers and cover letters?
What does Indeed think about cover letters?
Standard elements of a cover letter, with a cover letter template. “Indeed” Basics of a cover letter
Key takeaways for writing the perfect cover letter
Now that we have covered all the basics for writing a cover letter, let’s summarize everything:
- A cover letter is a letter that convinces the hiring manager of your competence, and it consists of around 250-400 words
- A cover letter goes in your job application alongside your CV
- Your cover letter introduction should grab the attention of the hiring manager and maintain it all the way till the conclusion
- Two things you should include in your cover letter: Why you’re the perfect candidate for the job and why you are passionate about working for the company
- Your content should be factual, and it shouldn’t just repeat everything that is on your resume
Cover Letter Examples (UK): Strong Opening, Body and Closing
A strong cover letter example is easier to learn from in small pieces. Below are three short cover letter examples for a UK application: an opening, a body paragraph and a closing. They are written for a fictional marketing coordinator role, so swap in your own details.
Cover letter example: the opening
I am writing to apply for the Marketing Coordinator role at Harlow & Finch. Your recent launch of the regional events programme caught my attention, because I have spent three years building event campaigns for a similar audience.
Why it works: it names the role and the company, then gives a specific reason for applying. It does not repeat the CV.
Cover letter example: the body paragraph
In my current role, I took over a monthly newsletter with a 19% open rate. By testing subject lines and segmenting the list, I raised it to 34% within six months. That work also doubled sign-ups for our spring event, and I would bring the same measured approach to your campaigns.
Why it works: it shows one clear result with real numbers, then links it to what the employer needs.
Cover letter example: the closing
Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the chance to discuss how my campaign experience could support your team, and I am available for an interview at your convenience.
Why it works: it is polite and brief, and it ends with a clear next step.
Cover letter wording: phrases to use and avoid
Good cover letter wording is plain, specific and confident. Use phrases that point to evidence, and cut anything that could appear in any letter.
- Use: “I am applying for the [role] because…”
- Use: “In my current role, I achieved…”
- Use: “I would bring this experience to…”
- Avoid: “To whom it may concern” when a name is available
- Avoid: “I am a hard-working team player” with no proof
- Avoid: “I believe I would be perfect for this role”
If you would rather have a letter written around your own experience, take a look at our cover letter writing service.
More cover letter examples
Below are some further examples for a cover letter, whether it’s your first one or not.
Jobsite – Good cover letter example
Jobsite – First job cover letter example
Jobsite – Cover letter when you already have a job example
Cover letter examples: FAQs
What makes a strong cover letter example?
A strong cover letter example is specific, short and tailored to one role. It names the job and company, gives one or two real results, and ends with a clear next step.
How long should a cover letter be in the UK?
In the UK, a cover letter should be no longer than one page, or around 250 to 400 words. Keep it to three or four short paragraphs.
Are you ready to complete your cover letter for your resume?
A strong cover letter can make a huge difference in getting your resume seen and landing an interview. But it can be tricky to know how to write one that stands out from the rest. Our team at DiamondCV are here to help!
We also looked at Indeed’s thoughts on the matter – so you can be sure your cover letter is up to date. Ready to get started? Follow our step-by-step guide and create a cover letter that will make hiring managers sit up and take notice!
Recent Comments