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

young-woman-checking-her-cover-lette

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

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

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

What is a cover letter and why does it matter?

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

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

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

What 3 things should you include in a cover letter?

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

1. Personalization

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

2. Highlight relevant achievements and skills

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

3. Show enthusiasm and fit

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

What do hiring managers look for in a cover letter?

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

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

Clear and concise writing

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

Demonstrated knowledge of the company

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

Achievements and accomplishments

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

Enthusiasm and motivation

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

Professionalism

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

excited-woman-in-her-office-how-to-write-a-cover-letter

How do you structure a cover letter?

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

Contact information

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

Employer's contact information

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

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

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

How to write a good cover letter (with examples)

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

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

1. Add a header and contact information

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

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

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

Christopher Pike

San Francisco, California

[email protected]

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

Warm regards,

Catherine Janeway

Bloomington, Indiana

[email protected]

(555) 999 - 2222

man-using-his-laptop-while-smiling-how-to-write-a-cover-letter

2. Include a personal greeting

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

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

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

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

3. Draw them in with an opening story

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

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

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

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

“Dear Mr. John Doe,

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

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

4. Emphasize why you’re best for the job

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

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

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

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

Highlight how you fulfill these requirements:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

man-reading-carefully-how-to-write-a-cover-letter

Tips to write a great cover letter that compliments your resume

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

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

woman-writing-on-her-notebook-how-to-write-a-cover-letter

Common cover letter writing FAQs

How long should a cover letter be.

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

Should I include personal information in a cover letter?

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

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

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

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

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

Should I include references in my cover letter?

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

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

The hardest part of writing is getting started. 

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

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

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

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

Ace your job search

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

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

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

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

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30 Genius Cover Letter Openers Recruiters Will LOVE

excited recruiter reading off a laptop screen with both arms in the air, multicolored splashes of paint in the background

Traditional cover letter wisdom tells you to start a cover letter with something to the effect of:

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing to apply for the marketing manager position with the Thomas Company.

We say: A cookie cutter cover letter intro feels as outdated as a Hotmail address.

SEARCH OPEN JOBS ON THE MUSE! See who’s hiring here , and you can even filter your search by benefits, company size, remote opportunities, and more. Then, sign up for our newsletter and we’ll deliver advice on landing the job right to you.

Your cover letter is the best way to introduce yourself to a hiring manager—who you are, what you have to offer, and why you want the job—but you have an extremely limited amount of space to do it. So if you really want to get noticed, you’ve got to start right off the bat with something that grabs your reader’s attention.

What do we mean? Well, we won’t just tell you, we’ll *show* you—but first, a few super quick tips!

Tips for writing an effective cover letter

Here are a few pointers to guide you as you use our example cover letter openings—we’re getting there, we promise!—to craft your own:

  • Avoid boring or overused openers: Recruiters have read cover letters that start with lines like “I’m excited to apply for the front-end engineering position,” or “Your job posting on The Muse prompted me to…” so often they could wallpaper their homes with them.
  • Be lively and personable: People like reading interesting, engaging stuff. The kind that paints a picture, tells a story, and maybe even makes them smile. People like it when you’re human, genuine, and memorable.
  • Communicate that you’ll bring something to the company: You’ll get more into the details after your opening, of course. But your cover letter opener should still tell the reader, “This person can do something for us ,” rather than, “This job would really help them .”
  • Stick to the point: Your opener, while creative, should still be relevant to the job. Don’t begin by highlighting an unrelated accomplishment or recounting an anecdote that never connects back to why you’re applying for the job.
  • Find an alternative to “ To Whom It May Concern .” Seriously, banish those five words from your cover letter vocabulary forever.

30 strong cover letter openers

We’ve come up with 30 examples and separated them by the method they use to grab the reader’s attention. We don’t recommend copying and pasting them because, well, your cover letter should be unique to your stories, background, and interests, but you can most definitely use them to get inspired for your next application. (If you’re looking to see what an entire cover letter might look like, check out our article on the best cover letter examples for every type of job seeker . )

Start with passion

Employers want to hire people who care about what they’re doing. If you start your cover letter off talking about your passions and how they relate to the job, you’re telling the reader that you’ll be an engaged and motivated employee who’s likely to stick around. Plus, it’s a good way to tell the company a bit about who you are as a person right off the bat. Just be honest and realistic.

  • If truly loving data is wrong, I don’t want to be right. It seems like the rest of the folks at [Analytics Company] feel the same way—and that’s just one of the reasons why I think I’d be the perfect next hire for your sales team.
  • I’ve been giving my friends and family free style advice since I was 10, and recently decided it’s time I get paid for it. That’s why I couldn’t believe it when I found an open personal stylist position at [Company].
  • After about three years of trying out different roles at early-stage startups around San Francisco, watching more “ find your passion “ keynotes than I’d like to admit, and assuring my parents that, yes, I actually do have a real job, I’m starting to come to terms with the fact that I’m happiest when I’m doing two things: writing great content and getting it out into the world.
  • The other day, I took a career assessment , which told me I should be a maritime merchant. I’m not quite sure what that is, but it did get me thinking: A role that combines my skills in business development with my lifelong passion for the ocean would be my absolute dream. Which is how I found this role at Royal Caribbean.
  • As a kid, I once gave up a day of a family vacation to transport an injured lizard I found by our hotel two hours each way to the nearest animal hospital (and talked my dad into driving me pre-GPS!). When I was a bit older, I found out I could care for animals every day for a living, and I’ve been working toward that goal ever since.
  • “I am constantly checking my LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram feeds—and not because of FOMO. Because I’m someone who wholeheartedly believes in the power of sharing ideas in online communal spaces, and I’m positive that I can help spark meaningful conversations as your next social media assistant.”
  • When I was growing up, I wanted to be one of those people who pretend to be statues on the street. Thankfully, my career goals have become a little more aspirational over the years, but I still love to draw a crowd and entertain the masses—passions that make me the perfect community manager.

Start with admiration

Companies often want to hire people who already know, love, eat, and sleep their brand. What better to kick off your cover letter than a little flattery? Of course, remember when you’re telling a company why you love it to be specific and genuine. Because while everyone likes a compliment, no one likes obvious self-serving B.S.

  • I pretty much spent my childhood in the cheap seats at Cubs games, snacking on popcorn and cheering on the team with my grandfather. It’s that memory that’s shaped my career—from helping to establish the sports marketing major at my university to leading a college baseball team to an undefeated season as assistant coach—and what led me to apply for this position at the Chicago Cubs.
  • It was Rudy, my Golden Retriever, who first inspired me to apply to your operations assistant opening—not only have we used your app to find other dogs to play with in our neighborhood, he’s really excited about the prospect of coming to work with me every day. As I learned more about how [Company] is using modern tech to help pets thrive in cities, I couldn’t help but get excited to be part of it, too.
  • When I was seven, I wanted to be the GEICO gecko when I grew up. I eventually realized that wasn’t an option, but you can imagine my excitement when I came across your events manager position, which would have me working side by side with my favorite company mascot.
  • When I attended SXSW for the first time last month, I didn’t want to leave. So I decided I shouldn’t—and immediately went to check out job openings at the company.
  • If I could make the NYC apartment rental process better for just one person, I would feel like the horrors of my recent search would all be worth it. So a customer service role at [Apartment Search Company], where I could do it every day? I can’t think of anything more fulfilling.
  • [Vacation Rental Company] is synonymous with luxury and escape, known for spaces that inspire. I’ve felt this firsthand every time I’ve stayed at one of your properties—whether I was throwing a bachelorette party or working from home in a new locale—and I would love the chance to contribute to this reputation as your destination manager.
  • I was an hour out from hosting my first big dinner party when I realized I had forgotten to pick up the white wine. In a panic, I started Googling delivery services, and that’s when I first stumbled across [Delivery Service Company]. I’ve been hooked ever since, so I couldn’t help but get excited by the idea of bringing this amazingness to nervous hosts like me as your next social media and community manager.
  • Though I’m happily employed as a marketing manager, seeing the job description for your company’s PR director position stopped me in my tracks. I’ve been wearing your glasses for many years, and have always been impressed by the way the company treats its customers, employees, and the community at large.
  • A group of us IT folks were sitting around talking about our favorite Pacific Northwest companies this morning (coincidentally, over coffee). As you might figure, Starbucks was among the first names that came up. What makes you such a standout among Seattle-based corporations? Here’s the list we compiled:

Start with accomplishments

For any given job, you’re going to be competing with a lot of other people—presumably, a lot of other similarly qualified people. So a great way to stand out in your cover letter is to highlight something about yourself—a character trait, an accomplishment, a really impressive skill—that’ll quickly show how you stand out.

  • My last boss once told me that my phone manner could probably defuse an international hostage situation. I’ve always had a knack for communicating with people—the easygoing and the difficult alike—and I’d love to bring that skill to your open office manager position.
  • Among my colleagues, I’m known as the one who can pick up the pieces, no matter what amount of you-know-what hits the fan. Which is why I think there’s no one better to fill this customer service leader position.
  • Last December, I ousted our company’s top salesperson from his spot—and he hasn’t seen it since. Which means, I’m ready for my next big challenge, and the sales manager role at your company is exactly what I’m looking for.
  • After spending three years managing the internal communications for a 2,000-person company, I could plan a quarterly town hall or draft an interoffice memo in my sleep. What do I want to do next? Put that experience to work as a consultant for executives looking to level up their communications strategy.
  • While you won’t find the title “community manager” listed on my resume, I’ve actually been bringing people together online and off for three years while running my own blog and series of meetups.
  • If you’re looking for someone who can follow orders to the T and doesn’t like to rock the boat, I’m probably not the right candidate. But if you need someone who can dig into data, see what’s working (and what’s not), and challenge the status quo, let’s talk.
  • I recently relocated my family to Texas. As we neared our new home, I noticed with intrigue the many wind turbines dotting the landscape. Suddenly, it hit me: “This is the career for me.” After unloading the moving van, I promptly researched companies in this sector that may benefit most from a skilled field engineer with expert electromechanical skills. And I discovered that [Company] is where I want to be.
  • You might be wondering what a 15-year veteran of the accounting world is doing applying to an operations role at a food startup. While I agree the shift is a little strange, I know you’re looking for someone who’s equal parts foodie and financial expert, and I think that means I’m your person.
  • Over the last 10 years, I’ve built my career on one simple principle: Work smarter. I’m the person who looks for inefficient procedures, finds ways to streamline them, and consistently strives to boost the productivity of everyone around me. It’s what’s earned me three promotions in the supply chain department at my current company, and it’s what I know I can do as the new operations analyst for [Company].

Start with humor and creativity

OK, before you read any of these, we have to stamp them with a big, blaring disclaimer: Do your homework before trying anything like this—learning everything you can about the company and the hiring manager to gauge whether or not they appreciate some comedic relief or a bit of snark. If they do, it’s a great way to make them smile (then call you). If they don’t? Try a different approach.

  • Have you ever had your mom call five times a day asking for a status update on how your job search is going, and then sound incredulous that you haven’t made more progress since the last phone call? That’s my life right now. But I’m hoping that soon my life will revolve around being your full-time social media manager. The good news is, I bring more to the table than just an overbearing mom. Let me tell you more.
  • Thank you so much for offering me the marketing manager position at [Company]! I wholeheartedly accept. OK, I know we’re not quite there yet. But if we were, here are just a few ideas for what I would do once in the role.
  • I considered submitting my latest credit card statement as proof of just how much I love online shopping, but I thought a safer approach might be writing this cover letter and describing all the reasons I’m the one who can take [E-Commerce Company]’s business to the next level.
  • I never thought that accidentally dropping my iPhone out of a second story window would change my life (it’s a funny story—ask me about it). But thanks to my misfortune, I discovered [Phone Repair Company]—and found my dream job as an expansion associate.
  • If we were playing “Two Truths and a Lie,” I’d say: I’ve exceeded my sales quotas by at least 20% every quarter this year, I once won an international pie-eating contest, and I have an amazing job at [Company]. The last, of course, is the lie. For now.

Jenny Foss , Erica Breuer , and Regina Borsellino also contributed writing, reporting, and/or advice to this article.

fancy words for cover letter

Land the job with cover letter templates

Show hiring managers why you're the perfect job candidate with professional, customizable cover letter templates. find the perfect cover letter template for any industry or career path..

Cover letter template surrounded by 3D design elements

Download free cover letter templates

Stand out from other job applicants with free, professional cover letter templates. Cover letters are a perfect complement to your resume and provide an effective opportunity to show your personality and enthusiasm for a position. Focus on writing a compelling cover letter and let a professionally designed template do the rest.

These free cover letter templates are perfect for any stage of your career, whether you're looking to land an internship or your dream job. If you're applying for a corporate position, you may want to opt for a simple cover letter template. There are a variety of other cover letter designs available, from basic cover letter templates to creative cover letter templates.

Each of these cover letter templates is customizable in Word , so you can add your own text, change design elements, and more. Print out your cover letter or download it for free to use for online job applications. Once you've customized the perfect cover letter, explore resume templates that will match your cover letter design, or download free business cards for your next networking event.

How to Create a Powerful Cover Letter

How-to-create-a-powerful-cover-letter.

Christine Romans, Wiley Author

September 06, 2016

You've got two minutes.

The typical hiring manager will spend about two minutes reviewing each resume, CareerBuilder estimates. Most employers (86%) typically have more than one employee review candidates’ resumes. Your resume and cover letter need to be relevant, accurate, and powerful. Your cover letter has to hook the reader in the first sentence. After that, it needs a fast-paced and exciting narrative to pull the interviewer in. If you are like most of us, you will find yourself writing a two-page cover letter. Cut it in half, and then trim it some more. Keep it tight. Here’s why: When Brad Karsh, author of How to Say It on Your Resume (Prentice Hall, 2009) and a frequent guest on CNN, was a recruiting director, he received 10,000 resumes and 9,000 cover letters. He says applicants should expect a hiring manager or recruiter to spend 10 seconds scanning the cover letter and another 10 seconds on the resume.

Those 10 seconds turn into a full read only if there is a narrative hook, no mistakes, and a clear idea that the applicant is showing that his or her skills fit the company.

Most people just rewrite their resumes into a cover letter. Instead, Karsh says, "you have to think of the cover letter as a movie trailer."

He says most job applicants include the same four boring paragraphs: how you heard about the job, why you are interested, why you’d be great at it, and, finally, how you are going to follow up. “You’ve written a lot of words and essentially given me no information,” says Karsh.

Avoid empty buzzwords like  facilitate ,  transition , and  utilize , and instead make sure you understand the lingo of the industry you are seeking a job in. Merely using fancy words that you think sound like they should be from business school will not impress a hiring manager.

Just say what you mean in simple, clear language. (And everyone says they are a team player and a problem solver. Those go without saying.)

Managers are busy people, with lots of office problems to solve. “Don’t waste my time if you aren’t going to add value,” Karsh says.

So go into it knowing that your competitors for that job will have similar if not better education and work experience. What makes you stand out from the rest? Why would the hiring manager plug you into his or her team? What makes you good in the trenches with your future teammates? These details and anecdotes can oftentimes be the hook that you need to get your foot in the door.

This article is an excerpt from  Smart is the New Rich: Money Guide for Millennials  by Christine Romans. Reprinted with permission from Wiley.

Image Source: Dmitriy Shironosov/iStockphoto

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Blog Graphic Design 20+ Creative Cover Letter Template Design [2024]

20+ Creative Cover Letter Template Design [2024]

Written by: Sara McGuire Jan 10, 2024

Venngage cover letter templates blog header

Are you looking to create a cover letter that will help your job application stand out? You’ve come to the right place.

Cover letters matter because they’re like your chance to say, “Hold up, there’s more to me than what’s on my resume!” They’re your first opportunity to show why you’re the ideal fit for the job and let your personality shine.

Ready to stand out from the job-hunting crowd? Browse and pick from Venngage’s dozens of cover letter templates that you can customize and have ready in no time!

There has been a lot of buzz surrounding infographic resumes  and other creative resume designs over the past few years. After all, creating a visually engaging resume can be an effective way to set yourself apart from other job candidates.

WATCH: Resume design tips

Keep reading for 20+ cover letter templates.

Or access our cover letter template library to see all the templates at once.

Find the right cover letter template for you (click the links below to jump ahead):

  • Why use a cover letter template?

Internship cover letter templates

Creative cover letter templates, professional cover letter templates, simple cover letter templates, free cover letter templates, how to design a cover letter, how to customize cover letter templates in venngage.

  • Cover letter writing tips from career experts

But first, before we dive into the beautiful cover letters…

Why should you use a cover letter template?

In most cases, your cover letter is an employer’s first introduction to who you are — your personality, your qualifications, and your goals. A cover letter is a way to develop your own personal brand :

cover letter template

A professional cover letter helps you seem more legitimate to employers. And it is a great document to bring with you to an interview and to publish on your portfolio site .

Why do you need a cover letter template ? Well, you should be writing a different cover letter for each job application.

So, a cover letter template will give you a framework that you can adapt for different positions, and save you time doing so.

Now, let’s take a look at different types of cover letter templates you can customize using Venngage.

Before that, if your resume design could use a little makeover, take a peek at these easy-to-use infographic resumes or creative resume templates . They’re sure to add that extra flair and make your application stand out!

Here’s a perfect example of a cover letter template you can use when applying for an internship or a co-op position:

Professional Gray Cover Letter Template

If you’re applying for your first job as a student, chances are you won’t have much hands-on work experience. In this case, you can talk about your educational qualifications as well as different skills relevant to the job that you’ve obtained from your course work.

In your cover letter, you can also explain what you bring to the table — what you think is important to the job and will make you stand out from other candidates. Take this template as an example:

internship cover letter template

If you don’t have concrete numbers to back up your work experience, you can talk about what you value and learn from previous experience — as well as what your soft skills are and how they’ll help you in the job you’re applying for. 

Add a custom header that illustrates your personal brand

What impression do you want to make on readers of your cover letter? Do you want them to think you’re inventive and take risks? Do you want them to think you’re competent and reliable?

This header uses bright colors and icons to make Sophie seem creative and personable:

cover letter template

Design Pro Tip: Use our icon replace tool to quickly replace any icon in our templates. Click any template here to sign up for free and enter the editor. Then, click an icon to replace it with one of the thousands of icons in our library.

Similar to how you can use an image as a border, you can also create an image header.

When picking an image for your header, look for an image that isn’t too busy. Too much going on will distract from your header text — and the text is the most important part!

For example, this cover letter template uses a tranquil lake scene in the header to show off the applicant’s photography skills:

Creative Photography Cover Letter Template

Or skip the image and separate your header text with a simple line:

cover letter template

Using a bold header is one way to make your job application stand out, so you don’t hear those dreaded words: “we’ll just keep your resume on file .”

You can also use our customizable  letterhead  templates to create unique headers.

Use icons to illustrate information like your experience, skills, or passions

Icons are simplified vector graphics used to represent concepts. They’re perfect for adding a bit of creativity to your cover letter design.

cover letter template

You can use icons in a number of ways to enhance your design, including:

  • Drawing attention to section headers
  • Creating your own custom logo or illustrations
  • Emphasizing key points like your contact information
  • Replacing bullet points in lists
“Using bullets points where applicable also help to make it a smooth read.”

– Brandon Thompson, Recruitment and Hiring Manager at  1-800-Got-Junk?

In this cover letter template, icons are used in the header to add a bit of color and illustrate the applicant’s experience:

Simple Creative Cover Letter Template

Add an atypical border for a modern cover letter design

cover letter template

Generally speaking, it’s good to play it safe with your cover letter design. That being said, there are small design choices you can make that will have a big impact on your cover letter’s personality.

For example, you can use borders in unusual ways. A simple border used in a surprising way can make your cover letter design more interesting.

For example, instead of using a border around the edges of your page, you could use a border around one section, like the header. Take a look at how this cover letter template uses a strip of purple along the spinal column and crosses it with a border around the header:

Modern Graphic Design Cover Letter Template

Use a column layout to divide your cover letter into sections

cover letter template

Typically, when you write a cover letter, you will include your contact information in the header or footer. But a visual cover letter offers you the opportunity to use a different page layout.

For example, you could put your contact information in a spinal column at the side of the page. To do this, simply divide your page into columns:

Cover Letter Templates

Take a look at how columns are used in the page layout for this cover letter template:

cover letter template

Include a personal logo to make your cover letter more memorable

For example, this cover letter template uses a logo created by putting the applicant’s initial inside a triangle. Simple and sleek:

Modern Marketing Cover Letter Template

Creating your own logo might seem like a big task. But it doesn’t have to be complicated. Your logo design could be as simple as a writing your name in a specific brand font , or combining your initial with an icon or shape.

Take some time to draft a few mock ups of your logo. What shapes and font style reflect your personality? Which designs are the most eye-catching and easy to use in other places?

You could use a logo in place of the headshot in this template. Or simply, include your photo:

cover letter template

Design Pro Tip : Use our photo replace feature to quickly add your own headshot to your cover letter. The Venngage online drag and drop editor lets you quickly upload your photo and drag it over the existing headshot. The tool will replace and resize for you.

cover letter template

Give your cover letter template a decorative border

This cover letter template uses an image of a map for the border. This could represent the applicant’s career path, their sense of adventure, or the places their experiences have taken them:

Professional Business Cover Letter Template

Design Pro Tip : Create a border using an image in Venngage’s online editor by placing a rectangle over the background image. If you would like your border to be see-through, simply adjust the opacity of the rectangle.

Cover Letter Templates

A border is a simple way to add some creativity to your cover letter, while still maintaining a more traditional design.

An easy and eye-catching approach is to use a background image for your border. Look for an image that reflects your skills, your hobbies or passions, or the industry you’re in or applying for. The meaning of the image can be literal or symbolic — that’s up to you!

Or instead of a border, try adding a footer or sidebar with an image, or in a solid color like this template:

cover letter template

Use up to three different font styles (but no more than that!)

This cover letter template uses an elegant font for the headers and a sans serif font for the body copy (for readability):

cover letter template

Here’s a design rule of thumb: use no more than three different font types in one design. If you use too many different fonts , your design can look cluttered.

Generally, it’s best to stick to:

  • One font for headers
  • One font for sub-headers
  • One font for body text

For example, this cover letter template uses only two fonts: Poppins for the header and sub-headers, and Merriweather for the body text. By bolding certain headers and using a different brand color for other, the design has variation while still being cohesive:

Simple Cover Letter Template

Highlight your contact information using a bold footer

While a bright, bold header will help grab the attention of readers, a footer will help make sure your cover letter ends on an impressive note. A bold footer can also help highlight key information–like your contact information and availability.

Take a look at how the footer in this cover letter template mirrors the color in the header, while also emphasizing the applicant’s contact information:

Blue Entry Level Cover Letter Template

Round out your cover letter design with an image

Look at how seamlessly the image at the bottom of this cover letter is incorporated into the design:

Modern Design Cover Letter Template 1

An image can add that final touch to your cover letter design. You can use an image to fill up empty space and to reinforce themes in your cover letter.

If you want to show off your creative chops, you could include a photo you’ve taken yourself, or a custom illustration. But when in doubt, you could incorporate a stock photo –as long as it isn’t too cheesy.

No matter what the image is, it’s important that you integrate it cohesively into your page design. That could mean using an image frame  to give your image a unique border shape, or using an image with a transparent background.

Add your signature to your cover letter template

Take a look at how this cover letter template incorporates a signature in the footer:

Graphic Designer Cover Letter Template

At this point, you may have noticed something that a lot of these cover letters have in common: they include a signature.

While including a signature isn’t a requirement, it can add another personal touch to your cover letter. Personal design touches will help your cover letter be more memorable.

  • Header and contact information: At the top of your cover letter, include your name, address, phone number and email, as well as the date of your application.
  • Salutation: Begin the letter by addressing the hiring manager by their name if it’s available or use a generic “Dear Hiring Manager” if you don’t know their name.
  • Content: Start with an engaging opening paragraph that clearly mentions the job you’re applying for and how you found out about it. In the following paragraphs, concisely explain why you are a strong candidate for the position, focusing on your skills, qualifications and specific achievements that align with the job requirements. Express your enthusiasm for the role and the company throughout the content.
  • Closing: In the closing paragraph, express your eagerness for an interview and thank the recipient for considering your application. Use a professional closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards.”
  • Proofreading and formatting: Before finalizing, carefully proofread your cover letter to ensure there are no grammar, spelling or punctuation errors. Maintain a clean, professional font and consistent formatting throughout the letter while keeping it to one page in length.
  • Select a cover letter template from this post or from our templates library . You’ll be prompted to create a free account. Some of our templates are free, some require a small fee to use.
  • You’ll enter Venngage’s drag and drop online editor. No design knowledge needed!
  • Add your own text, including a header, description, body text and your contact information.
  • Customize the color scheme , fonts , icons and images to fit your personal brand.
  • Save your customized cover letter as a template for future job applications.
  • Email or share a link to your cover letter within the editor.
  • Upgrade to download your cover letter as a PDF.

cover letter template

Make sure your job application stands out. Keep reading for essential cover letter design tips…

Expert tips for writing your cover letter

While good design will help grab the attention of readers, your text is what will actually sell them on your qualifications.

Before we delve into the expert tips, here are some general tips on how to write the best cover letter for your dream job. Make sure you always provide the reader — in this case, the recruiter, hiring manager or department manager — with context. Did you meet the recruiter at a job fair? Or, did you come across a message from them on a job portal?

If you have already met the recruiter in person at an event, the cover letter serves as a way to get back in touch while also communicating your interest in the position you are applying for.

You may also refer to something that stood out in your previous conversation so that the recruiter can refresh their memory and take a personal interest in your application.

Now, onto the tips from the career experts. Here’s what they had to say on cover letter writing:

Keep your text concise

“Keep your cover letter concise, easy to skim and be sure to connect the dots as to why you meet the important qualifications.”

– Hannah Morgan, Job Search Strategist at CareerSherpa

Cover Letter Templates & Tips1

Customize your cover letter for each company you apply to

“CUSTOMIZE YOUR LETTER TO THE COMPANY YOU’RE SENDING IT TO. Don’t just provide a list of your skills, or a few flattering paragraphs about your background. Tie your story to what the company cares about! If you’re not sure what the company cares about, go to their website. Read their About Us page. Try to figure out what they value (this is not hard – a lot of companies share their core values somewhere on their site). Pick which of those core values resonate most with you. Then, tailor your letter to those values. That is: how have you demonstrated that value in your career so far? How would your experience / skill set contribute to that value if you were to work at this company?”

– Claire Suellentrop, Co-Founder and Head of Marketing at Userlist.io

“Always personalize your cover letter. Explain what you have to offer and how exactly that connects with the vision/goals of the company.”

P.S: Not customizing your cover letter for each job application is probably the biggest cover letter mistake you can make as an applicant!

Cover Letter Templates & Tips2

Focus on communicating your career goals

“Spend more time explaining your goals/direction and your plan rather than listing off things like ‘good at multitasking and team work’. What is your focus and why do you want the role?”

– Emily Brown, Hiring Manager at Ledcor

Cover Letter Templates & Tips3

Use creative copywriting techniques

“When hiring marketers, I look for creativity and powerful copywriting. Empathy…understand the role your prospective employer is hiring for and what good and bad (very important to have why you might not fit) ways you fit in.”

– Derric Haynie, CEO of Vulpine Interactive

Cover Letter Templates & Tips4

Show you know a lot about the company you’re applying for

“Find a way to stand out and find a way to speak to the first person who will be reading your resume, either that’s a recruiter, HR manager or hiring manager. If you know who you’re writing the cover letter for, talk about why you are actually excited to work for that company. Talk more about the company than you do about yourself, and tie in a few reasons why you’e the right fit for the role. Reference recent news articles about the company, show that you’ve done your research, whatever you need to do to stand out beyond the copy and paste approach that everyone else is using. The information is available.”

– Martin Hauck, Head of Talent at  Coinsquare

Cover Letter Templates & Tips5

Optimize your cover letter design for print

You probably already have a few ideas for creative cover letters buzzing around in your head. But before you race off to start your design, here are a few best practices to keep in mind.

If you’re planning on bringing your cover letter to an interview, make sure that your design will look as impressive in print as it does on screen.

Design your cover letter for standard letter paper

Make sure that the size dimensions of your cover letter template fit standard printer paper. Standard letter paper is 8.5 x 11 inches.

Export your cover letter in a high resolution

You don’t want your cover letter to print out blurry. In general, it’s a good idea to export your cover letter in 300 dpi resolution.

Venngage allows you to download your design in HD PNG or PDF formats. You can also check out this guide to learn how to edit PDFs .

Set bleed marks for your printer

If you want to get your cover letter printed professional, you may want to set bleed marks in your design. “Bleed” is the area around the outside of your cover letter that will be chopped off after printing.

If your cover letter design has a solid background color, or colors and images that touch the edge of the page, you should set bleed marks to indicate where the edge of the page is.

bleed marks

Now that you’re equipped with these cover letter design tips, it’s time to make your own!

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  • Cover Letter Templates

Choose from 12 unique cover letter templates that will make you stand out from the pile of applications. Simply choose, edit, and download.

Industry image

A straightforward cover letter template that’s suitable for most jobs that you apply.

Industry image

A modern cover letter template ready to help you stand out in the tech and IT industries.

Industry image

Highlight your experience logically –– focus your cover letter on your top achievements.

Industry image

Best for legal and banking jobs, a classic cover letter template is a time-proven choice.

Industry image

Multicolumn

Have a standout cover letter header and get your name and contact info in focus.

Industry image

Tell more about your career with our compact cover letter template.

Industry image

High Performer

A template that matches your attitude, the high performer makes you stand out.

Industry image

Simple, yet unique, the minimal cover letter template is those who want to focus on the story

A No-Nonsense Copy/Paste Cover Letter Template

Our team of career counselors has made a generic cover letter template that you can use for your next job. Just copy and paste it and change the content within the brackets with your own!

Cover Letter Templates by Job

Take advantage of cover letters that have earned Enhancv users their dream job. Explore real-life examples and make a cover letter that gets you the job of your dreams.

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Cover Letter Templates by Career Situation

Entry-level cover letter.

**Sarah Parker**

7 Victoria Dr.

Miami, FL 33161

(781) 182-1110

[email protected]

Dear Mrs. Parker,

Since my sophomore year at university, DELL has been an industry trend-setting company which I would love to work for. Luckily, yesterday my colleague Marko Marletti (one of the organization's employees) called me in a hurry to inform me of DELL`s brand new Graduates program. I'm delighted to express my motivation for the entry-level ICT Assistant role.

As a recent graduate from the University of San Francisco with a B.S. in Computer Science, I would bring to the team my strong knowledge of Microsoft SQL, MS Dynamics, MS SharePoint, as well as Linux systems. Moreover, I am very passionate about backend coding, and last year I completed with excellence one of the most prestigious boot camps in San Fransisco - Nucamp.

Almost throughout my whole study, I have been working part-time as a System administrator, as I aspired and was eager to get both theoretical and practical knowledge at the same time. In this role I gained invaluable experience in server maintenance, assistance in the roll-out of Release & Deployment campaigns, setting up and configuring desktop computers, peripherals, and accounts, and assigning security levels. I built proficiency to efficiently troubleshoot a variety of technical issues for staff and end-users.

I feel ready to rise up to the challenge of an ICT Assistant role at DELL. Enclosed, please find my resume, which further illustrates my skills and educational background. Should you have any follow-up questions, I`d be happy to answer them. I look forward to further discussing this great opportunity and DELL`s needs from the Graduates program.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Carlos Sanches

Career Change Cover Letter

Dear [Mr./Mx./Ms.] [Manager’s Name],

I’m writing to you regarding the currently open role of Project manager at Max Legal, which I came across on your company website. After carefully reviewing the job description, I was delighted to find out that my academic accomplishments and professional background meet all of the necessary requirements.

For the last 5 years, I have had the chance to acquire invaluable experience as a Project assistant in a multinational organization like Hewlett-Packard. I have established myself as the go-to trusted advisor for Project managers and other functional experts regarding

Project documentation excellence. My daily coordination and interaction with the big teams regarding readiness for bid submission have let me in on many insider's secrets from the PM field. One of my biggest achievements is getting the award PMO Employee of the year in 2020.

I am passionate about applying my PM expertise from the streamlined processes in a large corporation to the exciting Project manager role in Max Legal.

In addition, I am certain I can bring a high-value proposition to the team, as I have made sure to accompany my practical experience with getting PMP (Project Management Professional) certified last year. During my study, I have strategically focused my coursework and practical assignments in the following areas:

  • Project plan design
  • Project resources designation
  • Scope of work and Work breakdown structure
  • Budget plan
  • Stakeholders management
  • Project monitoring and project lifecycle management

Lastly, my colleagues say that I have naturally grown to the role of Project manager and I am excited to bring this expertise on-board.

I would be delighted to have an opportunity to personally interview you. Please accept the enclosed resume and feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience. I appreciate your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Scholarship Cover Letter

[Scholarship organization name]

[Organization address]

[Organization phone number]

Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Recipient’s name] / [Scholarship Committee],

My name is [NAME] and I have recently graduated with my Master in Child Psychology from UVIC - Universitat Central de Catalunya. I have found out about the Scholarship from my professor at Clinical Psychopathology - Dra. Jane Peterson, who believes I would be a great match for your Scholarship program at Child Care Association “Anima”.

Personally, I feel very passionate about working with children with special needs and enabling them to become more autonomous in daily life and self-empowered. Hence, it would be an honor for me, should I be selected for the Scholarship position of Child Assistance Counselor at Association “Anima”. In addition to my in-depth academic knowledge in the field, my value proposition to the organization is also in having 3+ years of Volunteer experience as an Assistant teacher of disadvantaged children via several ERASMUS+ international projects.

Thanks to this work I have practiced with the kid's modalities like Play therapy, Art & Music therapy, and English lessons. Apart from becoming proficient in structuring and successfully delivering Didactical lessons, I have built the necessary instrumentarium of skills to create safe emotional connections and rapport with the children.

As you can see, my expertise is a very close match to what the beneficiaries of Association “Anima” - children with disabilities, need.

Should you require references for my credentials and suitability, please do let me know.

I am really inspired by this opportunity to make a difference in the life of children and looking forward to further discussing it with you.

[Sincerely / Best / Best regards],

[Your name]

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Matching resume to pair with your cover letter, 500+ job-specific examples for inspiration, templates suitable for your industry, role, and experience, easily make multiple cover letters tailored to different jobs, professional and communicative design, swiftly edit, customize and download, frequently asked questions, what should a cover letter include.

Your cover letter should include your biggest accomplishments in your career. Don’t just restate what you already have in your resume –– rather, focus on one or two accomplishments that are relevant to the job you’re applying for and expand from there. Your cover letter should have a header , salutation, opening paragraph , body paragraph , a call to action, and a closer .

Read more: How to Structure a Cover Letter

What is the best cover letter template for 2024?

How is a cover letter different from a resume, how long should my cover letter be, where can i see cover letter examples for my job, should i have a matching cover letter and resume, can i use a cover letter for my cv, do i need a unique cover letter for every job, what do i do if i can’t write a good cover letter, can my cover letter be an email, is it free to use enhancv’s cover letter and resume builder.

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  1. Free Modern Cover Letter Templates [Word Download]

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  2. Best Fonts to Use On Your Cover Letter

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  3. Free Word Cover Letter Templates to Download Now

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  4. 70+ Words to Use in a Cover Letter (Examples + Writing Guide)

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  5. 20 Creative Cover Letter Template Design [2024]

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  6. Professional Cover Letter Templates for 2023 [Download Now]

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  1. How To Write An AMAZING Cover Letter

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  3. How to Write a Perfect COVER LETTER in Six Steps (with Example)

  4. HOW TO WRITE A COVER LETTER! (Brilliant Cover Letter Examples + Template)

  5. How To Write An INCREDIBLE Cover Letter

  6. The PERFECT Cover Letter In 5 MINUTES Or Less

COMMENTS

  1. 70+ Words to Use in a Cover Letter

    Cover letter words you can use. Below are examples of keywords you can use to boost your cover letter. We've divided them into four categories (using colored underlines for your reference): Cover letter action verbs. Recognition keywords. Skills keywords. Results-oriented keywords. 1. Cover letter action verbs.

  2. 40+ Creative Cover Letter Templates: Free for Word & G Docs

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

  3. Free Modern Cover Letter Templates [Word Download]

    8. The 'Fancy' Cover Letter Template Why it's called the Fancy, and who should use it. Playful but dignified, the Fancy cover letter template is a tasteful addition to our collection. This is the quintessential cover letter for candidates who want to keep their application professional but add a splash of creativity.

  4. How to Write a Great Cover Letter in 2024 (+ Examples)

    1. Personalization. Address the hiring manager or recruiter by name whenever possible. If the job posting doesn't include a name, research to find out who will be reviewing applications. Personalizing your cover letter shows that you've taken the time to tailor your application to the specific company and role. 2.

  5. Free Cover Letter Templates: Download for Word

    Basic Cover Letter Templates. Each basic cover letter template is formatted for job seekers who want to write a traditional, professional cover letter, without any fancy nonsense. Simple. Targeted. Stand Out. Elegant. Quick. Traditional. Beginner.

  6. 30 Better Ways to Start a Cover Letter

    Communicate that you'll bring something to the company: You'll get more into the details after your opening, of course. But your cover letter opener should still tell the reader, "This person can do something for us ," rather than, "This job would really help them .". Stick to the point: Your opener, while creative, should still be ...

  7. Free cover letter templates

    Each of these cover letter templates is customizable in Word, so you can add your own text, change design elements, and more. Print out your cover letter or download it for free to use for online job applications. Once you've customized the perfect cover letter, explore resume templates that will match your cover letter design, or download free ...

  8. 25+ Free Cover Letter Templates for Word

    Step 1: Open Microsoft Word, then click " New " from the menu bar on the left side of the window. Or you can go to "File", then click on " New from Template… " from the dropdown menu. Step 2 : Use the search bar at the top right of the window to narrow down the results to just cover letter templates.

  9. Free Cover Letter Templates for Word to Start With

    Best Alternatives to Word Cover Letter Templates. 1. Cascade. Cascade is one of our users' favorite templates. Its distinctive sidebar highlights your name and contact info, leaving ample space for the content of your cover letter. You can customize the colors, spacing, and fonts to make this template truly yours. 2.

  10. How to Format a Cover Letter: Examples & Tips for 2024

    GOOD EXAMPLE. Dear Mr. Jones / Dear Ms. Jones, Dear Alex Jones, Dear Alex, Pick the first variant ( Dear Mr. / Ms. Lastname) if you're formatting a cover letter for a federal job or any other position with a formal work environment. Most business cover letters for corporate positions fall under this category, too.

  11. Cover Letter Format: Examples & Formatting Tips [2024]

    The cover letter standard format for a signoff is a simple formal phrase, followed by a comma, then a space, then the writer's name. Wrap up your cover letter with phrases like "Best regards," "Regards," "Respectfully," or "Sincerely," for your signoff. Don't use informal terms like "Thanks!".

  12. Cover Letters

    If it's necessary, you'll get to use your hard-won vocabulary in the context of your job, but slash the fancy words from your cover letter. Do Tell Your Story: One of the most important things about learning how to write a cover letter is understanding that it is an opportunity to tell your story, elaborating on your resume and application ...

  13. Free Cover Letter Templates for Word

    Download our truly free cover letter templates today! Customize in Word within minutes. The only cover letter template you'll ever need.

  14. How to Create a Powerful Cover Letter

    how-to-create-a-powerful-cover-letter. You've got two minutes. The typical hiring manager will spend about two minutes reviewing each resume, CareerBuilder estimates. Most employers (86%) typically have more than one employee review candidates' resumes. Your resume and cover letter need to be relevant, accurate, and powerful.

  15. 20+ Creative Cover Letter Template Design [2024]

    Header and contact information: At the top of your cover letter, include your name, address, phone number and email, as well as the date of your application. Salutation: Begin the letter by addressing the hiring manager by their name if it's available or use a generic "Dear Hiring Manager" if you don't know their name.

  16. Professional FREE Cover Letter Templates by Enhancv

    A No-Nonsense Copy/Paste Cover Letter Template. Our team of career counselors has made a generic cover letter template that you can use for your next job. Just copy and paste it and change the content within the brackets with your own! Your Name] [Street Address] [City and Zip Code] [Your Phone Number] [Today's Date] [Addressee's/Hiring ...

  17. How To Format a Cover Letter (With Outline and Examples)

    If you're providing a hard copy of your cover letter, handwrite your signature and also include your full typed name. Download Cover Letter Outline Template. To upload the template into Google Docs, go to File > Open > and select the correct downloaded file. Related: Creating the Perfect Cover Letter (With Template and Example)

  18. How To Create a Cover Letter Template in Word

    Here are the steps for creating a cover letter template using the internet: 1. Visit the Microsoft cover letter templates website. You can access the Word cover letter templates via the company's website. If you don't have a subscription, there are still free, editable templates available. 2.

  19. Cover Letter Templates and Examples for 2024

    3. Win the name game. If possible, address your cover letter to the hiring manager or project manager by name. This personal touch shows your attention to detail—and it's attention-grabbing. If the job post doesn't include a contact name, visit the company website or LinkedIn to try to find the right person.

  20. 15 Cover Letter Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

    Here are 15 things to avoid when writing a cover letter with tips and suggestions of what you can do instead: Not following instructions. Using the wrong format. Discussing why you are looking for a new position. Using the same cover letter for every application.

  21. 40+ Basic Cover Letter Templates: Free for Word & G Docs

    Basic & Simple Cover Letter Templates. Need a no-frills cover letter? Present yourself as a serious candidate with these basic & simple cover letter templates, available for both Microsoft Word and Google Docs. For more options, browse the rest of our cover letter templates. Build My Cover Letter Now. Classic. Chicago.

  22. Best Cover Letter Font You Should Use (Size & Typeface)

    The best font for a cover letter should be simple, clear, and match the font you use in your resume. The most popular choices include Times New Roman, Arial, Calibri, and Verdana. The font size should be set to 12pt and it's best to limit yourself to just one typeface. But that's not the full answer on what font is suitable for a cover letter.

  23. 15 Words and Phrases to Never Include in a Cover Letter

    14. "Self-Starter," "Detail-Oriented," and "Forward-Thinker". These are what's known as "frequent offenders" amongst cover letter and resume experts. They are overused and carry little weight these days. "Treat a cover letter as a chance to make a human connection, not a formality," says Majumdar.

  24. Basics of Cover Letter Writing

    Only the date, your name, city, state, phone number, and email are expected. However, you won't lose points for including your full address. Occasionally, you'll be asked to submit a physical copy of your cover letter, in which case it's most professional to include your actual address. It's increasingly common to include your LinkedIn ...

  25. Cover Letter Tips: Words Not to Include

    Don't use pat phrases. These vague yet common phrases can sound weak and unsure of your abilities. A great cover letter demands the reader's attention and respect from its opening lines, so ...

  26. Word Templates

    Elevate your document creation with ease, whether it's resumes, cover letters, cards, flyers, and a lot more. Explore a vast collection of professionally crafted Microsoft Word templates on Template.net. With a diverse array of designs and styles, you'll find the perfect template to streamline your work and impress your audience.