how to write a short cover letter for a job

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How To Write A Short Cover Letter (With Examples)

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• How To Write A Cover Letter For A Job With No Experience In That Field

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When applying for a job you will want to make sure your cover letter has your qualifications and why you are the right person for the job. This sounds like an easy task, right?

While it may sound easy to do, recruiters and hiring managers don’t have the time to read through every application in detail. Sometimes a cover letter that is short and sweet is what you need to grab their attention without wasting their time.

We will go over why you should use a short cover letter, when its appropriate, and how to write one while providing some examples.

Key Takeaways:

A short cover letter should be about 100-250 words broken down into three to four paragraphs.

You should use a short cover letter if you are an entry level employee, if you are emailing your cover letter, or if you are submitting your application online.

Your cover letter should highlight your qualifications and sell you as the ideal candidate.

Why Use a Short Cover Letter

When to write a short cover letter, how to write a short cover letter, formatting a short cover letter.

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You stand out. When you use a short cover letter, you will stand out from the other candidates. A hiring manager will likely be reading a lot of cover letters, and if yours is shorter from the rest, it will stick out and they will remember it.

You can highlight easier. A shorter letter lets you highlight your qualifications without burying it in fluff and buzzwords. It will also give the hiring manager enough information before, while you’re still able to give more information during an interview.

Time-saving. As said before, a hiring manager is likely reading a lot of cover letters. If yours is short, they are more likely to read yours over the long ones.

If you’re applying for a high-level executive position, it makes sense for you to write closer to 400 words.

An entry-level employee. You won’t have as much experience as those high-level execs so an entry-level cover letter should be closer to 200 words, or even less.

Email cover letter. Emails are short and usually to the point by nature. Email cover letters should not be long. Otherwise, it would look like a gigantic block of text that the hiring manager will likely not even bother with.

Electronic application. If you are submitting your cover letter through an online application, you will need to keep it short. Many of those supplied text boxes have strict character limits.

You’re not tied to the above scenarios. If you don’t feel like the position calls for a long cover letter, then don’t include a lengthy attachment. You should still include a cover letter, though. Just keep it short. Think short story, not novel.

A short cover letter does pose an interesting challenge. There is a lot of information you want to convey, and you have so much space to do so.

Generally, a cover letter is about half a page in length and consists of 200-400 words broken into three to four paragraphs. The same cannot be said for a short cover letter.

You can still include all of the same elements you see in a regular length cover letter. You just have to be more selective with the words you use and the achievements you highlight. Here’s how to write a short cover letter:

Cut the fluff. Nobody wants fluffy cover letters. Despite how it sounds, fluff is actually a technical term. It means adding more information than is really necessary. So cut the fluff and remove unnecessary details.

You may find it easier to remove the fluff after you’ve finished your cover letter. Or, you may find it easier to be aware of it as you write and avoid it altogether. Your preference really matters.

But, how do you cut the fluff? Simple.

Avoid adjectives. Sure, adjectives liven up your writing, but this isn’t a creative writing piece. It’s a cover letter. You don’t have to cut them completely, but you should use them sparingly.

Avoid buzzwords. Try not to fill up your sentences with words like self-motivated, results-oriented, deadline-driven, or team-oriented. They just make your writing feel bulkier.

Write concisely. Get to your point quickly. If you can shorten the sentence, do it. Be careful, though. Sometimes when we write concisely, it comes off as terse or rude. Your tone really matters, so be aware of it.

Focus on relevant skills and experience. Technically, any cover letter you write should focus on the skills , experience, and achievements that relate to the position you’re applying for.

In a short cover letter, you want to be very selective. Use the job description to identify the qualifications and skills they find most important and focus on those.

Use bullet points to your advantage. Seeing a bulleted list in the middle of a cover letter is completely normal. Many job applicants use bullet points to highlight their most attention-grabbing (and relevant) qualifications and achievements.

Those bullet points can make a bigger impact in a short cover letter. You can include more in fewer words.

Focus on the value. Your cover letter should be conveying your value. Focus your attention on what you can bring to the position and the company.

As a general rule, the format of your cover letter should not change much, no matter the length. The biggest difference between a short cover letter and a regular length cover letter is the delivery method.

Your short cover letter should include :

Header. If you are emailing your cover letter or submitting it via an electronic application portal, you will not need to include a header . If you are submitting it more traditionally, then you will still need to include the header at the top.

Your header should look like this:

Your full name (Optional) Your current address Your phone number Your professional email address Your online portfolio (Optional) Your website, LinkedIn Date of submission Hiring manager’s name Hiring manager’s title within the company Company name (Optional) Company address

Greeting (Salutation). Regardless of how you are submitting your cover letter, you will need to address it properly . “Dear [ hiring manager’s name ]” is the standard. If you can’t locate the name of the hiring manager, you can use a more generic greeting. But, you should never use “To Whom It May Concern” or “Dear Sir/Madam”.

Opening lines. Your opening lines should capture the reader’s attention and convince them to keep reading.

Body paragraph. This is where you will highlight your relevant skills and experience. Remember to pull information from the job description to help you determine which qualifications and achievements to focus on.

Closing lines. End your cover letter with a strong call-to-action. Give the hiring manager a reason to reach out to you.

Sign-off. Similar to your greeting, there is a right and a wrong way to close your letter. Even if you are submitting via email, you should use a formal closing such as “Sincerely”, “Respectfully”, “ Thank you ”, or “Best regards”.

You may also want to include your contact information below your name. This is especially true if you are excluding a header.

Example Answer 1: Short Email Cover Letter:

Subject: Customer Service Representative – Eloise Greene Dear Ms. Chatner, XYZ Department Store is known for its incredible customer service. I believe I would make an excellent addition to your team, and I have the customer satisfaction ratings to prove it. I take pride in the companies I serve, and it shows through my professionalism and enthusiasm. At ABC Shoppe, I was regularly mentioned by name in customer feedback surveys and had the most positive feedback ratings each week. You will find that I develop an excellent rapport with my customers, solve customer problems quickly and efficiently, and can work well independently. My coworkers and superiors know that there is no one more dedicated, reliable, or efficient than me. I look forward to speaking with you about this position. Sincerely, Eloise Greene 555-123-4567 [email protected] linkedin.com/in/eloisegreene478

Example Answer 2: Sales Rep Short Cover Letter:

Tanner Gaddas Atlanta, GA 555-123-4567 [email protected] linkedin.com/in/tannergaddas January 1, 2021 Genevieve Hudson VP of Human Resources 123 Sellers Dear Ms. Hudson, As a talented sales professional with eight years of proven history generating new leads, converting leads to customers, and driving growth in my territory, I believe I would be an asset to 123 Sellers. During my tenure at XYZ Enterprises, I have earned multiple awards and was named top seller three years in a row. I have expertise in client retention, new customer acquisition, and cold calling and am comfortable using CRMs like SalesForce and Hubspot. Highlights of my achievements include: Growing a $1M territory to a $4M in two years Converted 300 new customers over the course of a year Exceeded sales goals by 50% in my first year Maintain expert knowledge in complete product line up consisting of over 200 products I am confident that with my sales experience and techniques, I will help your company gain a larger market share. Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to discussing this opportunity further. Respectfully, Tanner Gaddas 555-123-4567

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Samantha is a lifelong writer who has been writing professionally for the last six years. After graduating with honors from Greensboro College with a degree in English & Communications, she went on to find work as an in-house copywriter for several companies including Costume Supercenter, and Blueprint Education.

Matt Warzel a President of a resume writing firm (MJW Careers, LLC) with 15+ years of recruitment, outplacement, career coaching and resume writing experience. Matt is also a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and Certified Internet Recruiter (CIR) with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Marketing Focus) from John Carroll University.

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• How To Write A Short Cover Letter

8 short cover letter samples + writing guide

If you want to secure the job of your dreams, make sure that your CV grabs the attention of recruiters.

But how do you achieve this?

You must create a compelling cover letter to introduce and accompany your CV.

A short cover letter will quickly establish rapport with hiring managers, prompting them to open your CV.

This article, including eight short cover letter examples (with templates) plus our writing guide, will demonstrate how to write your own enticing cover letter and get noticed in the job market.

CV templates 

Short cover letter sample – Admin

Hi [Recruiter name],

I would 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 allow me [Aspirations + mention of suitable skill]

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

[Phone number] [Email]

Short cover letter sample – Customer service

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

With [Number of years’ experience] in [Type of position(s)] for [Name(s) of previous companies], I have gathered extensive [Core responsibilities] in [Type of setting].

In my current role with [Current employer], I am responsible for [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible]

My role has given me [Aspirations + mention of 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.

Kind regards,

Short cover letter sample – Sales

I am excited to apply for 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 seeking a new opportunity that will enable me to [Aspirations + mention of suitable skill].

I look forward to hearing from you soon, and I am available to interview at any point.

Short cover letter sample – School leaver

I am a dedicated student with excellent [Core skills], looking to apply for the [Job title] position at [Company name].

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

I am keen to showcase my [Aspirations + mention of suitable skill].

I am available for an interview from [Insert date], and I am very keen to discuss how my skill set can benefit [Company name’s] success.

Short cover letter sample – IT

Hi [Recruiter name]

I am writing to apply for the position of [Job title] as advertised on [Website name].

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

I’m looking for a fresh opportunity that [Aspirations + mention of suitable skill].

Please contact me to arrange an interview at any time that is convenient for you, as I am keen to discuss my qualifications.

Short cover letter sample – Creative

I am excited to apply for the [Job title] role at [Company name], as advertised on [Website name]. With over [Number of years] years of experience in [Core responsibilities of role], I am keen to bring my [Skills] to your [Team/company].

During my career working for [Current employer], I have established an in-depth understanding of [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible]

Additionally, I [Aspirations + mention of suitable skill].

Please do get in touch with me to arrange an interview when you can to talk about my qualifications, capabilities, and additional achievements.

Best regards,

Short cover letter sample – Education

I hope you’re well.

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

When I taught/worked at [Name of educational setting], I implemented [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

I am seeking a new opportunity that will allow me [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.

Short cover letter sample – Graduate

I trust you’re doing well.

I am writing to apply for your [Job title] role at [Company name], as it offers an exciting opportunity to leverage my passion for [Core responsibilities].

As a [Current role], I have a strong foundation in [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

While pursuing my degree, I thrived in courses focused on [List of course modules].

I also successfully [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

I look forward to the chance to talk more about my qualifications and how my skills can benefit your company’s success. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Why write a short cover letter?

Your cover letter  is a preliminary message that introduces your CV when you apply for a job.

It must convince the hiring manager to open your CV and potentially invite you to an interview – but they get hundreds of applications every day, so they don’t have much time to read each one.

So writing a short cover letter can help you get your point across quickly and ensure that more recruiters read your CV.

How to write a short cover letter

Now that you have seen some good examples of cover letters to accompany your CV, let’s look in more detail at how you’ll go about writing your own, and what content you should include .

Write in the body of your email/message

You should always write your cover letter in the body of the email . Alternatively, if you are sending your application via a job board, you can use the messaging system. But don’t attach your cover letter as a document.

Why is this?

Your cover letter should immediately captivate the recruiter from the very second they access your job application.

If they have to go through the effort of opening a document to read it, this slows everything down and they probably won’t bother to open it.

Address the recruiter by name

To begin your cover letter, grab the recruiter’s attention with a warm greeting – and use their name if you can find it.

Here are some quick ways to find a recruiter’s name.

• Double-check the job advert – Often, you can find the person’s name and email address within the job ad itself.
• Company website –  If you are applying directly to a company, you can locate contact info about the head of the department or recruitment team on their website in the “About Us” section.
• LinkedIn –  If you can pinpoint the specific team and company related to the job vacancy, a speedy search on LinkedIn can help you find the person who’s likely in charge of the application.

There’s no need to stress if you can’t work out the hiring manager’s name – you’re not alone.

Just begin your cover letter with a friendly “Hi” – this is perfectly fine in this circumstance.

Your greeting should strike a balance between being friendly and professional – but not excessively relaxed, yet not too formal.

Consider addressing the recruiter using:

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

Steer clear of traditional greetings, like “Dear sir/madam” unless you’re applying to extremely formal companies.

Write in a friendly but professional manner

When you’re writing a cover letter, you must find a middle ground between professionalism and demonstrating your personality and communication skills .

If you’re too casual, you come across as unprofessional. On the flip side, being excessively formal makes you look like you lack social skills.

Aim for that sweet spot when you sound both friendly and professional.

Start with something like, “I hope you’re well” – this adds a personal touch to your cover letter. What’s more, make sure that your spelling and grammar are impeccable, as mistakes can raise concerns for recruiters.

Highlight your relevant skills

Your cover letter aims to encourage recruiters to open your CV. You can do this easily by quickly telling recruiters about your relevant skills tailored to the positions you’re applying for.

Scan over the job descriptions you’re applying to and note down the most significant skills and qualifications the hiring manager is requesting.

Next, when creating your cover letter, make your relevant skills the key focus.

Tell them why you’re the best-qualified applicant and how your skill set is directly relevant to the job.

Doing so provides recruiters with all the reassurance they need to look at your CV and consider you for the position.

Add some quantified achievements

To give your cover letter that extra edge, add quantified achievements. These are specific accomplishments, with added numbers, that show your value to would-be employers.

For example, if you are a sales representative , you could say you have boosted sales by 20% in your past role and completed 50 customer calls daily with a 96% satisfaction rate. Or that you decreased project turnaround time by 30%.

Quantified achievements give a hiring manager proof of your impact in the workplace and can significantly increase your chances of securing a job interview.

Write succinctly

When you’re applying for a job, remember – recruiters and hiring managers are usually incredibly busy and likely short on time.

So, be sure to get your message across to them as swiftly as possible. Ideally, in the shortest amount of time.

Keep your cover letter brief and to the point. If you create a rambling cover letter, this will only overburden recruiters, as they are going through countless emails daily.

Keep your cover letter between 3 and 6 sentences long. Don’t use wordy language – keep your sentences short and sweet.

For example, rather than saying, “I am writing to notify you that I am applying for the position of…”, you can just say, “I’d like to apply for the position of…”

Here are a few more tips on how to keep your cover letter snappy and succinct:

• Use action verbs –  Select action verbs that get your message across. For example, don’t say, “I was responsible for the management of projects.” Instead, say, “I managed projects.”
• Be direct –  Get straight to the point. Say what your purpose and intentions are plainly, and avoid unneeded introductions. Write something like, “I am interested in the position of Creative Director at your company.”
• Avoid redundancy –  Don’t repeat anything you have mentioned previously in your CV. Your cover letter introduces your CV – it doesn’t duplicate it.

Add a professional signature

To conclude your cover letter, include a professional signature at the very bottom. This gives a recruiter your essential contact details.

Not only does a professional signature provide various ways of getting in touch with you, but it also gives a very polished look and demonstrates that you understand how to communicate in the working environment.

Your professional signature should include:

• A friendly sign-off – For example, “Kind regards” or “Best regards.”
• Your full name – That’s your first name and surname. For example, “Joe Bloggs.”
• Your telephone number – The phone number you use most often. For example, your mobile number.
• Your email address – A professional email address. For example, [email protected] . Avoid unprofessional emails such as [email protected].

Optionally, you could include the following in your professional signature:

• Your professional title – For example, “Graphic Designer” or “Customer Service Representative.”
• Your professional social network – For example, LinkedIn.

Here are some examples of professional signatures at the bottom of a cover letter:

What to avoid in a short cover letter

When you’re writing your cover letter, avoid making these everyday errors.

Attaching your cover letter as a separate document

The goal of your cover letter is to instantly greet and connect with the recruiter who opens it. So, avoid attaching your cover letter as a separate document – this slows the process down considerably. What’s more, the recipient probably won’t even open it.

Always write your cover letter in the body of your email or within the job site messaging system so recruiters can read it immediately.

Heading your cover letter with your address

There is simply no need to write your address on a cover letter, as it wastes lots of valuable space at the top.

You should use this space to grab the hiring manager’s attention and present your keenness and qualifications for the role.

Recruiters want to know what talents and qualifications you contribute to the company. So, it’s better to start with a professional greeting and a short introduction that catches their attention.

Also, placing your address at the top of a cover letter can make it look a little outdated.

In today’s age of digital job applications and online submissions, hiring managers prioritise the content of your cover letter over conventional formatting .

Leading with your home address can take up valuable space – it just isn’t necessary unless the job posting specifically asks for it.

The better option? Put your name, phone number, and email address at the bottom of your cover letter after you have described why you’re the perfect candidate for the job.

15 Short Cover Letter Samples [Examples + Templates]

3 key takeaways

• Step-by-step guide for writing the perfect short cover letter
• 15 samples of short cover letters for you to use
• How to use Teal’s AI Resume Builder to quickly and easily generate unique cover letters   

A short cover letter that’s customized for a specific position makes a great first impression, even when the hiring manager has limited time.

And for job postings that you're genuinely interested in, taking the time to craft a thoughtful cover letter is well worth it. It allows your unique voice and enthusiasm for the work to shine through. 

The article below explains how to create a brief cover letter that gets results and showcases some short cover letter samples you can use as inspiration throughout your job search.

Why write a short cover letter?

Writing a short cover letter doesn't mean you're providing less value. It means you're placing a premium on clear and impactful communication, which, even by itself, underscores your professionalism. 

In fact, there are a lot of reasons why it might be beneficial to stick with a short, concise cover letter.

• Efficiency : Short cover letters save time for both you and the hiring manager, allowing for quicker evaluations.
• Relevance : A concise letter ensures that every word you write directly contributes to showcasing your qualifications and aligns with the job's requirements.
• Engagement : A brief, compelling letter is more likely to capture the attention of busy hiring professionals, increasing the chances of them reading it.
• Clarity : Shorter letters are inherently clearer and easier to follow, making it more straightforward for the reader to learn your key strengths and motivations.
• Respect for time : It demonstrates respect for the time constraints of hiring managers, conveying your understanding of busy schedules and time management. 

Short cover letter outline

In a concise cover letter, brevity is a strength. So, what parts of a cover letter should an abbreviated yet impactful document include?

I. Introduction

• Briefly introduce yourself.
• Mention the specific job position you're applying for.

II. Why you're a fit

• Highlight one to two key qualifications or experiences that align with the job requirement (try incorporating relevant keywords from the job description).

III. Passion and enthusiasm

• Express genuine interest in the role and the company. (This is a great place to weave in a specific company value or mission.)

IV. Value proposition

• Quickly mention what you can bring to the organization regarding skills, achievements, or potential contributions using keywords from the job description.

V. Closing statement

• Politely thank the reader for their time.
• Include a call to action, like "Please contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address] to discuss my application or schedule an interview.

VI. Signature

• Sign off with a professional closing, e.g., "Sincerely,"
• Include your name, email, and phone number.

3 key tips for writing a short cover letter

Now that you know what to include, here are some tips for writing a short cover letter.

Customize your cover letter for each job

Tailoring your cover letter to a specific job shows you have the experience, skills, and qualifications the company is looking for. Include keywords and focus on relevant experience to align closely with the job description, ensuring your application stands out as highly relevant and targeted.

Use bullet points to highlight your qualifications and achievements

If you find yourself staring at a wall of text, use bullet points to make your cover letter easier to skim. List key achievements (with results!) and qualifications directly related to the job.

Be clear and concise

Keep your cover letter brief and to the point. Avoid filler words and overly complex sentences. A clear, straightforward approach helps convey your message so key details stand out.

How to write a short cover letter

Different than writing a general cover letter (which tends to be significantly longer), writing a simple cover letter requires some steps that focus more on language and precision. 

Step 1: Research and prepare

Thoroughly research the company and job role to understand their specific needs and culture. 

These details will help you make your cover letter more personalized, which can set you apart from other candidates. If you can find the hiring manager’s name, address them directly and use it in your cover letter greeting. This shows potential employers that you care about the detail

Step 2: Identify key qualifications

Select one or two of your qualifications or experiences directly matching the job requirements. (Use keywords from the job description to align your skills.) 

Explain these briefly but with enough detail to illustrate your competence and how these experiences make you a great fit for the role.

Step 3: Prioritize recent relevance

Highlight only your recent career experiences relevant to the job. Avoid detailing every previous role, focusing only on what's applicable.

Step 4: Optimize Content Sections

Identify the most critical sections (e.g., qualifications, value proposition). Then, allocate space judiciously, emphasizing only the most impactful content that aligns with the role.

Step 5: Condense and simplify

Review your content for long phrases and unnecessary words. Aim to convey more with fewer words while maintaining clarity. (And do your best to use contractions whenever it makes sense. I.e., ”I’ll” rather than “I will” or “I’m” rather than “I'm.”)

For example:

Original: "I believe that I have the Python skills and 7 years of data experience that are relevant to this position." ‍ Improved: "I have the relevant Python skills and 7 years of data experience for this position."

Pro Tip: If you're looking to automate some of this process, let's say by writing your cover letter with ChatGPT or another AI program, copy and paste your content into the software, and prompt it to highlight any unnecessary filler words and phrases.

Step 6: Improve clarity and readability

Review your content for clarity and readability. Make sure your message is easy to understand and flows smoothly—avoiding ambiguity.

For example: 

Original: "I have experience working with diverse teams, which has given me valuable skills." ‍ Improved: "I've successfully collaborated with diverse teams on five major projects, resulting in a 20% increase in project efficiency." ‍ Best: "I collaborated with diverse teams on five projects, increasing project efficiency by 20%."

Step 7: Review, refine, and proofread

Carefully review your short cover letter for conciseness and relevance. Eliminate any additional words. Remember, every word should serve a purpose. 

Then, proofread it (and then proofread it again!). You can also opt to use a tool like Teal's AI Resume Builder with features like a cover letter builder with spell check, which can help you write, edit, and identify typos or grammar issues.

Use Teal's AI Cover Letter Generator

With Teal, you can generate a tailored, impactful cover letter in seconds. Just match your existing resume with a specific job description, and the AI Cover Letter Generator will write a personalized letter based on your career information and position details.

It can be a game-changer for your job application process. Try it yourself and see.

Remember, your cover letter is your chance to make a first impression. Take the time to make it count. With the right approach, the use of a cover letter checklist, and a little help from AI, you can create a cover letter that stands out for all the right reasons.

15 great short cover letter examples

Every person has different experiences and job stages, which means no two cover letters are built the same.

A short cover letter for an internship or for someone with no experience will be much different than a cover letter for someone at the senior or executive level.

Below are some short cover letter samples for a variety or roles and career stages. Use one of these short cover letter examples as inspiration for how to write a short cover letter and customize it based on your own experience.

Short cover letter samples

Short cover letter sample - sales.

Pro Tip:  See more short cover letter examples with these sales cover letter templates.

Short cover letter sample - customer service

Pro Tip:  Need more more short cover letter examples? Check out these customer service cover letter templates .

Short cover letter sample - creative jobs

Pro Tip:  See more examples in these creative role cover letter samples.

Short cover letter sample - hospitality

Pro Tip:  Need more short cover letter examples? Use these hospitality cover letter templates as a guide.

Short cover letter sample - administration

Pro Tip: See more short cover letter examples in these administration cover letter templates.

Short cover letter sample - human resources

Pro Tip : See more short cover letter examples in these human resources cover letter templates.

Short cover letter templates

Short cover letter sample - any job.

Dear [Hiring Manager], I'm excited to submit my application for the [Position] role at [Company Name]. As an experienced [title] with [X] years of experience, I'm confident that I have the [1-2 specific skills and qualifications from the job description] necessary to excel in this position. With [X] years of experience in [Industry], I've gained valuable transferable skills such as [Relevant Skills] that I believe will be an asset to your team. I'm confident that I can quickly adapt to this new role's demands and significantly contribute to your organization. Given my experience,  I'm eager to bring my expertise to your team at [Company Name]. Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further. Warm Regards, [Your Name]

Pro Tip:  See more short cover letter examples, and learn how to write a general cover letter with a comprehensive guide and templates .

Short cover letter sample - entry-level position

Dear [Hiring Manager],  I'm excited to apply for the [Position] at [Company Name].  As a recent graduate with a degree in [Degree Field], I focused my studies on [Study Areas]. I also gained hands-on experience at [Type of Business], where I was responsible for [List 2-3 Responsibilities]. I'm confident my academic and work experience make me a strong candidate for this position.  I've demonstrated my skills in [Relevant Skills] with a [Quantifiable Achievement] in my last role. I'm also committed to delivering [Deliverable From Job Description]. I'm excited about the opportunity to work at [Company Name] and contribute to your team. Thank you for considering my application.  Sincerely, [Name]

‍ Pro Tip:  Check out another short cover letter example in this entry-level cover letter template.

Short cover letter sample - manager position

Pro Tip:  Want more short cover letter examples? Check out these project manager cover letter templates .

Short cover letter sample - leadership position

Dear [Hiring Manager],  With [X]+ years of experience in the [Industry], including [X] years in [Specialization], I was thrilled to see an opening for the [Job Title] at [Company Name].   In my previous roles, I've consistently increased profits by [Percentage]% YoY through [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and [Skill 3]. I'm passionate about leveraging [Skill 4] to inform decision-making and identify opportunities for growth—evidenced by my [Strategy] for a flagship product line that increased market share by [Percentage]%.  As a senior-level candidate, I'm eager to bring my leadership skills and expertise to a dynamic and innovative team. I'm committed to fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous learning, with an [Percentage]% employee retention rate, and I'm excited about the opportunity to contribute to growth and success at [Company Name].  Thank you for considering my application. Please reach out to me at [Contact Information] to discuss my qualifications further.  Sincerely,  [Name]

Pro Tip:  Want to more leadership-level short cover letter examples? Check out these director cover letter templates .

Short cover letter sample - internships

Dear [Hiring Manager],  I'm writing to express my interest in the [Internship Position] at [Organization Name].  As a college student majoring in [Major], I've developed a keen interest in [Field of Interest], and I'm excited about the prospect of contributing to [Brief Description of Organization's Mission].  In my [X]-hour practicum in my school's [Department Name], I [Achievement With Impact or Result]. I also [Achievement With Impact or Result]. My practical skills in [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and [Skill 3] make me an excellent candidate for this internship. I'm passionate about making a positive impact in the world, and I believe that [Organization Name] is the perfect place for me to start.  I'm eager to learn from your team and contribute my skills to [Specific Type of Efforts].  Thank you for considering my application. Please reach out to me at [Contact Information] if you'd like to discuss my qualifications further. Sincerely,  [Name]

Pro Tip:  See more examples and learn how to write a short cover letter for an internship.

Short cover letter sample - gaps in employment

Dear [Hiring Manager], I'm excited to submit my application for the [Position] role at [Company Name]. As an experienced [title] with [X] years of experience, I'm confident that I have the [1-2 specific skills and qualifications from the job description] necessary to excel in this position. During a recent break in employment, I took the opportunity to focus on personal development and enhancing my skills through [titles of relevant certifications, education, or training]. I'm confident that these experiences have improved my expertise in [1-2 specific keywords from the job description].  I'm eager to bring my passion and expertise to your team at [Company Name]. I'm committed to contributing my best work and collaborating with others to [specific outcome from the job description]. Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further. Warm Regards, [Your Name]

‍ Pro Tip: See more short cover letter examples and learn how to explain gaps in your resume clearly and concisely.

Short cover letter sample - career transition

Dear [Hiring Manager], ‍ I’m excited to submit my application for the [Position] role at [Company Name]. As someone with a diverse background in [Previous industry/Field], I'm eager to pivot my career toward [New Industry/Field], and I believe that this position is the perfect opportunity to do so. ‍ Through my [Number of Years] of experience in [Previous Industry/Field], I've gained valuable transferable skills such as [Relevant Skills] that I believe will be an asset to your team. I'm confident that I can quickly adapt to the demands of this new role and make a significant contribution to your organization. ‍ I'm excited about the prospect of joining a company that values innovation and growth, and I'm eager to bring my unique perspective and skill set to your team. Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further. ‍ Sincerely, ‍ [Your Name]

Pro Tip: Need to write short cover letter for a career pivot? Check out " How to Write a Career Change Cover Letter ."

Short cover letter sample - internal position

Dear [Hiring Manager], I'm writing to express my interest in the [Position] recently posted in our internal job board.  Having worked at [Company Name] for [X] years in the [Current Department], I have a thorough understanding of our company's operations and goals. During my time in [Current Department], I have [1-2 Major Accomplishments], which have directly contributed to [Impact and Results]. My familiarity with our internal systems, along with my achievements in [Specific Area], align perfectly with the requirements and responsibilities of the [Position]. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my unique expertise to the [New Department/Position], where I aim to further contribute to our company's success. I'm enthusiastic about the challenges of this new role and look forward to discussing this exciting opportunity with you. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to your feedback and hope to discuss my application in more detail. Warm regards, [Name]  [Department]

Pro Tip:  When applying for an internal position, showcase your progress and promotions on your resume to align what you've already done for the company with the needs of your next role.

Short cover letter sample - informal

Hi [Hiring Manager], I hope this message finds you well!  I'm writing to throw my hat in the ring for the [Position] role at [Company Name].  I've been following your team's work for a while now, and I'm really impressed by [something specific about the company or team]. A bit about me—I've spent the last [X] years working in [Industry/Field], where I've honed my skills in [Relevant Skill 1] and [Relevant Skill 2] to [Results and Impact]. I'm eager to bring that same energy and initiative to your team. I love the idea of contributing to [Company Goal or Project], and I think my background in [Industry/Field] would be a great fit. Plus, I'm ready to hit the ground running and make a positive impact right from the start. Thanks for considering my application. I'd love the chance to chat more about how I can contribute to your team.  Best, [Your Name]

Pro Tip:  While keeping your cover letter informal can showcase your personality, it's still important to balance friendliness with professionalism to make a great first impression. For more examples of how to strike the right tone, check out this collection of  cover letter examples . 

Need a short cover letter? Teal can help!

Crafting a memorable cover letter boils down to personalization, relevance, and clear, engaging writing. And while this might seem like a tall order, it’s much easier with the right tools in your belt, like Teal. 

With Teal, you can leverage AI technology to create a short, standout cover letter tailored just for you— and the specific jobs you’re applying to. 

Ready to take the next step in your career? Start building strong, memorable cover letters to land your next interview. build strong cover letters that land your dream job.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should a short cover letter be.

When it comes to the length of a short cover letter, less is more. 

Aim for brevity and clarity above all else. As a general guideline, a short cover letter should be between 100 and 200 words, or about half a page, single-spaced. 

This length is just enough to express your interest in the job, showcase your relevant skills, and leave the hiring manager eager to learn more about you from your resume. Remember, the goal is to be concise and impactful. You want to grab their attention and make a strong impression without overwhelming them with too much information.

When should I use a short cover letter?

Short cover letters are ideal in scenarios where you know the hiring process is fast-paced or the recruiter is dealing with a high volume of applications. 

Instances such as applying for a popular role or during peak hiring periods, like graduation season, are perfect examples. 

In these cases, a succinct and focused cover letter quickly highlights your key qualifications and showcases you as a candidate worthy of further exploration. A well-crafted, concise cover letter not only respects the hiring manager's time but also piques their interest in your potential fit for the role.

When shouldn’t I use a short cover letter?

While short cover letters can be highly effective, there are situations where a more comprehensive cover letter may be better. 

Positions that demand extensive experience, specific certifications, advanced educational qualifications, or complex skill sets often require a more detailed approach. 

In these cases, you'll want to devote enough space to discussing how your unique combination of skills, qualifications, and experiences makes you the ideal candidate. 

If the job description asks for a deep dive into certain competencies or a lengthy history of achievements, a longer cover letter can help you paint a comprehensive picture of your professional journey and precisely align your skills with the job requirements.

Kayte Grady

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How to Write a Cover Letter [Full Guide & Examples for 2024]

After weeks of heavy job searching, you’re almost there!

You’ve perfected your resume.

You’ve short-listed the coolest jobs you want to apply for.

You’ve even had a friend train you for every single interview question out there.

But then, before you can send in your application and call it a day, you remember that you need to write a cover letter too.

So now, you’re stuck staring at a blank page, wondering where to start...

Don’t panic! We’ve got you covered. Writing a cover letter is a lot simpler than you might think. 

In this guide, we’re going to teach you how to write a cover letter that gets you the job you deserve.

We're going to cover:

What Is a Cover Letter?

• How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter, Step by Step
• 15+ Job-Winning Cover Letter Examples

Let’s get started.

A cover letter is a document that you submit as part of your job application, alongside your resume or CV.

The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background. On average, it should be around 250 to 400 words long .

A good cover letter is supposed to impress the hiring manager and convince them you’re worth interviewing as a candidate.

So, how can your cover letter achieve this?

First of all, it should complement your resume, not copy it. Your cover letter is your chance to elaborate on important achievements, skills, or anything else that your resume doesn’t give you the space to cover. 

For example, if you have an employment gap on your resume, the cover letter is a great place to explain why it happened and how it helped you grow as a person. 

If this is your first time writing a cover letter, writing about yourself might seem complicated. But don’t worry—you don’t need to be super creative or even a good writer .

All you have to do is follow this tried and tested cover letter structure:

• Header. Add all the necessary contact information at the top of your cover letter.
• Formal greeting. Choose an appropriate way to greet your target audience.
• Introduction. Introduce yourself in the opening paragraph and explain your interest in the role.
• Body. Elaborate on why you’re the best candidate for the job and a good match for the company. Focus on “selling” your skills, achievements, and relevant professional experiences.
• Conclusion. Summarize your key points and wrap it up professionally.

Now, let’s take a look at an example of a cover letter that follows our structure perfectly:

New to cover letter writing? Give our cover letter video a watch before diving into the article!

When Should You Write a Cover Letter?

You should always include a cover letter in your job application, even if the hiring manager never reads it. Submitting a cover letter is as important as submitting a resume if you want to look like a serious candidate.

If the employer requests a cover letter as part of the screening process, not sending one is a huge red flag and will probably get your application tossed into the “no” pile immediately.

On the other hand, if the job advertisement doesn’t require a cover letter from the candidates, adding one shows you went the extra mile.

Putting in the effort to write a cover letter can set you apart from other candidates with similar professional experience and skills, and it could even sway the hiring manager to call you for an interview if you do it right.

Need to write a letter to help get you into a good school or volunteer program? Check out our guide to learn how to write a motivation letter !

How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter

Now that you know what a cover letter is, it’s time to learn how to write one!

We’ll go through the process in detail, step by step.

#1. Choose the Right Cover Letter Template

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

So, what’s a better way to leave a good impression than a well-formatted, stylish template?

Just choose one of our hand-picked cover letter templates , and you’ll be all set in no time!

As a bonus, our intuitive AI will even give you suggestions on how to improve your cover letter as you write it. You’ll have the perfect cover letter done in minutes!

#2. Put Contact Information in the Header

As with a resume, it’s important to 

start your cover letter

 with your contact details at the top. These should be in your cover letter’s header, separated neatly from the bulk of your text.

Here, you want to include all the essential contact information , including:

• Full Name. Your first and last name should stand out at the top.
• Job Title. Match the professional title underneath your name to the exact job title of the position you’re applying for. Hiring managers often hire for several roles at once, so giving them this cue about what role you’re after helps things go smoother.
• Email Address. Always use a professional and easy-to-spell email address. Ideally, it should combine your first and last names.
• Phone Number. Add a number where the hiring manager can easily reach you.
• Location. Add your city and state/country, no need for more details.
• Relevant Links (optional). You can add links to websites or social media profiles that are relevant to your field. Examples include a LinkedIn profile , Github, or an online portfolio.

Then it’s time to add the recipient’s contact details, such as:

• Hiring Manager's Name. If you can find the name of the hiring manager, add it.
• Hiring Manager's Title. While there’s no harm in writing “hiring manager,” if they’re the head of the department, we recommend you use that title accordingly.
• Company Name. Make sure to write the name of the company you're applying to.
• Location. The city and state/country are usually enough information here, too.
• Date of Writing (Optional). You can include the date you wrote your cover letter for an extra professional touch.

#3. Address the Hiring Manager

Once you’ve properly listed all the contact information, it’s time to start writing the content of the cover letter.

The first thing you need to do here is to address your cover letter directly to the hiring manager.

In fact, you want to address the hiring manager personally .

Forget the old “Dear Sir or Madam” or the impersonal “To Whom It May Concern.” You want to give your future boss a good impression and show them that you did your research before sending in your application.

No one wants to hire a job seeker who just spams 20+ companies and hopes something sticks with their generic approach

So, how do you find out who’s the hiring manager?

First, check the job ad. The hiring manager’s name might be listed somewhere in it.

If that doesn’t work, check the company’s LinkedIn page. You just need to look up the head of the relevant department you’re applying to, and you’re all set.

For example, if you’re applying for the position of Communication Specialist at Novorésumé. The hiring manager is probably the Head of Communications or the Chief Communications Officer.

Here’s what you should look for on LinkedIn:

And there you go! You have your hiring manager.

But let’s say you’re applying for a position as a server . In that case, you’d be looking for the “restaurant manager” or “food and beverage manager.”

If the results don’t come up with anything, try checking out the “Team” page on the company website; there’s a good chance you’ll at least find the right person there.

Make sure to address them as Mr. or Ms., followed by their last name. If you’re not sure about their gender or marital status, you can just stick to their full name, like so:

• Dear Mr. Kurtuy,
• Dear Andrei Kurtuy,

But what if you still can’t find the hiring manager’s name, no matter where you look?

No worries. You can direct your cover letter to the company, department, or team as a whole, or just skip the hiring manager’s name.

• Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
• Dear Hiring Manager
• Dear [Department] Team
• Dear [Company Name]

Are you applying for a research position? Learn how to write an academic personal statement .

#4. Write an Eye-Catching Introduction

First impressions matter, especially when it comes to your job search.

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

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

The biggest problem with most opening paragraphs is that they’re usually extremely generic. Here’s an example:

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

See the issue here? This opening paragraph doesn’t say anything except the fact that you’ve worked the job before.

And do you know who else has similar work experience? All the other applicants you’re competing with.

Instead, you want to start with some of your top achievements to grab the reader’s attention. And to get the point across, the achievements should be as relevant as possible to the position.

Your opening paragraph should also show the hiring manager a bit about why you want this specific job. For example, mention how the job relates to your plans for the future or how it can help you grow professionally. This will show the hiring manager that you’re not just applying left and right—you’re actually enthusiastic about getting this particular role.

Now, let’s make our previous example shine:

Dear Mr. Smith,

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

The second candidate starts with what they can do for the company in the future and immediately lists an impressive and relevant achievement. Since they’re experienced in the same industry and interested in finance, the hiring manager can see they’re not just a random applicant.

From this introduction, it’s safe to say that the hiring manager would read the rest of this candidate’s cover letter.

#5. Use the Cover Letter Body for Details

The next part of your cover letter is where you can go into detail about what sets you apart as a qualified candidate for the job.

The main thing you need to remember here is that you shouldn’t make it all about yourself . Your cover letter is supposed to show the hiring manager how you relate to the job and the company you’re applying to.

No matter how cool you make yourself sound in your cover letter, if you don’t tailor it to match what the hiring manager is looking for, you’re not getting an interview.

To get this right, use the job ad as a reference when writing your cover letter. Make sure to highlight skills and achievements that match the job requirements, and you’re good to go.

Since this part of your cover letter is by far the longest, you should split it into at least two paragraphs.

Here’s what each paragraph should cover:

Explain Why You’re the Perfect Candidate for the Role

Before you can show the hiring manager that you’re exactly what they’ve been looking for, you need to know what it is they’re looking for.

Start by doing a bit of research. Learn what the most important skills and responsibilities of the role are according to the job ad, and focus on any relevant experience you have that matches them.

For example, if you’re applying for the position of a Facebook Advertiser. The top requirements on the job ad are:

• Experience managing a Facebook ad budget of $10,000+ / month
• Some skills in advertising on other platforms (Google Search + Twitter)
• Excellent copywriting skills

So, in the body of your cover letter, you need to show how you meet these requirements. Here’s an example of what that can look like:

In my previous role as a Facebook Marketing Expert at XYZ Inc. I handled customer acquisition through ads, managing a monthly Facebook ad budget of $40,000+ . As the sole digital marketer at the company, I managed the ad creation and management process end-to-end. I created the ad copy and images, picked the targeting, ran optimization trials, and so on.

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

• Google Search

Our example addresses all the necessary requirements and shows off the candidate’s relevant skills.

Are you a student applying for your first internship? Learn how to write an internship cover letter with our dedicated guide.

Explain Why You’re a Good Fit for the Company

As skilled and experienced as you may be, that’s not all the hiring manager is looking for.

They also want someone who’s a good fit for their company and who actually wants to work there.

Employees who don’t fit in with the company culture are likely to quit sooner or later. This ends up costing the company a ton of money, up to 50% of the employee’s annual salary , so hiring managers vet candidates very carefully to avoid this scenario.

So, you have to convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about working with them.

Start by doing some research about the company. You want to know things like:

• What’s the company’s business model?
• What’s the company’s product or service? Have you used it?
• What’s the company’s culture like?

Chances are, you’ll find all the information you need either on the company website or on job-search websites like Jobscan or Glassdoor.

Then, pick your favorite thing about the company and talk about it in your cover letter.

But don’t just describe the company in its own words just to flatter them. Be super specific—the hiring manager can see through any fluff.

For example, if you’re passionate about their product and you like the company’s culture of innovation and independent work model, you can write something like:

I’ve personally used the XYZ Smartphone, and I believe that it’s the most innovative tech I’ve used in years. The features, such as Made-Up-Feature #1 and Made-Up-Feature #2, were real game changers for the device.

I really admire how Company XYZ strives for excellence in all its product lines, creating market-leading tech. As someone who thrives in a self-driven environment, I truly believe that I’ll be a great match for your Product Design team.

So, make sure to do your fair share of research and come up with good reasons why you're applying to that specific company.

Is the company you want to work for not hiring at the moment? Check out our guide to writing a letter of interest .

#6. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Finally, it’s time to conclude your cover letter.

In the final paragraph, you want to:

• Wrap up any points you couldn't make in the previous paragraphs. Do you have anything left to say? If there’s any other information that could help the hiring manager make their decision, mention it here. If not, just recap your key selling points so far, such as key skills and expertise.
• Express gratitude. Politely thanking the hiring manager for their time is always a good idea.
• Finish the cover letter with a call to action. The very last sentence in your cover letter should be a call to action. This means you should ask the hiring manager to do something, like call you and discuss your application or arrange an interview.
• Remember to sign your cover letter. Just add a formal closing line and sign your name at the bottom.

Here’s an example of how to end your cover letter :

I hope to help Company X make the most of their Facebook marketing initiatives. I'd love to further discuss how my previous success at XYZ Inc. can help you achieve your Facebook marketing goals. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at the provided email address or phone number so that we may arrange an interview.

Thank you for your consideration,

Alice Richards

Feel free to use one of these other popular closing lines for your cover letter:

• Best Regards,
• Kind Regards,

Cover Letter Writing Checklist

Once you’re done with your cover letter, it’s time to check if it meets all industry requirements. 

Give our handy cover letter writing checklist a look to make sure:

Does your cover letter heading include all essential information?

• Professional Email
• Phone Number
• Relevant Links

Do you address the right person? 

• The hiring manager in the company
• Your future direct supervisor
• The company/department in general

Does your introductory paragraph grab the reader's attention?

• Did you mention some of your top achievements?
• Did you use numbers and facts to back up your experience?
• Did you convey enthusiasm for the specific role?

Do you show that you’re the right candidate for the job?

• Did you identify the core requirements for the role?
• Did you show how your experiences helped you fit the requirements perfectly?

Do you convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about the company you’re applying to?

• Did you identify the top 3 things that you like about the company?
• Did you avoid generic reasons for explaining your interest in the company?

Did you conclude your cover letter properly?

• Did you recap your key selling points in the conclusion?
• Did you end your cover letter with a call to action?
• Did you use the right formal closing line and sign your name?

15 Cover Letter Tips

Now you’re all set to write your cover letter! 

Before you start typing, here are some cover letter tips to help take your cover letter to the next level:

• Customize Your Cover Letter for Each Job. Make sure your cover letter is tailored to the job you're applying for. This shows you're not just sending generic applications left and right, and it tells the hiring manager you’re the right person for the job.
• Showcase Your Skills. Talk about how your skills meet the company’s needs. And while your hard skills should be front and center, you shouldn’t underestimate your soft skills in your cover letter either.
• Avoid Fluff. Don’t make any generic statements you can’t back up. The hiring manager can tell when you’re just throwing words around, and it doesn’t make your cover letter look good.
• Use Specific Examples. Instead of saying you're great at something, give an actual example to back up your claim. Any data you can provide makes you sound more credible, so quantify your achievements. For example, give numbers such as percentages related to your performance and the timeframe it took to accomplish certain achievements.
• Research the Company. Always take time to learn about the company you're applying to. Make sure to mention something about them in your cover letter to show the hiring manager that you're interested.
• Follow the Application Instructions. If the job posting asks for something specific in your cover letter or requires a certain format, make sure you include it. Not following instructions can come off as unattentive or signal to the hiring manager that you’re not taking the job seriously.
• Use the Right Template and Format. Choose the right cover letter format and adapt your cover letter’s look to the industry you’re applying for. For example, if you’re aiming for a job in Law or Finance, you should go for a cleaner, more professional look. But if you’re applying for a field that values innovation, like IT or Design, you have more room for creativity.
• Express Your Enthusiasm. Let the hiring manager know why you're excited about the job. Your passion for the specific role or the field in general can be a big selling point, and show them that you’re genuinely interested, not just applying left and right.
• Address Any Gaps. If there are any employment gaps in your resume , your cover letter is a great place to mention why. Your resume doesn’t give you enough space to elaborate on an employment gap, so addressing it here can set hiring managers at ease—life happens, and employers understand.
• Avoid Quirky Emails. Your email address should be presentable. It’s hard for a hiring manager to take you seriously if your email address is “[email protected].” Just use a [email protected] format.
• Check Your Contact Information. Typos in your email address or phone number can mean a missed opportunity. Double-check these before sending your application.
• Mention if You Want to Relocate. If you’re looking for a job that lets you move somewhere else, specify this in your cover letter.
• Keep It Brief. You want to keep your cover letter short and sweet. Hiring managers don’t have time to read a novel, so if you go over one page, they simply won’t read it at all.
• Use a Professional Tone. Even though a conversational tone isn’t a bad thing, remember that it's still a formal document. Show professionalism in your cover letter by keeping slang, jargon, and emojis out of it.
• Proofread Carefully. Typos and grammar mistakes are a huge deal-breaker. Use a tool like Grammarly or QuillBot to double-check your spelling and grammar, or even get a friend to check it for you.

15+ Cover Letter Examples

Need some inspiration? Check out some perfect cover letter examples for different experience levels and various professions.

5+ Cover Letter Examples by Experience

#1. college student cover letter example.

Check out our full guide to writing a college student cover letter here.

#2. Middle Management Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a project manager cover letter here.

#3. Team Leader Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a team leader cover letter here.

#4. Career Change Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to a career change resume and cover letter here.

#5. Management Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a management cover letter here.

#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing an executive resume here.

9+ Cover Letter Examples by Profession

#1. it cover letter example.

Check out our full guide to writing an IT cover letter here.

#2. Consultant Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a consultant cover letter here.

#3. Human Resources Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a human resources cover letter here.

#4. Business Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a business cover letter here.

#5. Sales Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a sales cover letter here.

#6. Social Worker Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a social worker cover letter here.

#7. Lawyer Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a lawyer cover letter here.

#8. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing an administrative assistant cover letter here.

#9. Engineering Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing an engineer cover letter here.

#10. Receptionist Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a receptionist cover letter here.

Need more inspiration? Check out these cover letter examples to learn what makes them stand out.

Plug & Play Cover Letter Template

Not sure how to start your cover letter? Don’t worry!

Just copy and paste our free cover letter template into the cover letter builder, and swap out the blanks for your details.

[Your Full Name]

[Your Profession]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Location]

[Your LinkedIn Profile URL (optional)]

[Your Personal Website URL (optional)]

[Recipient's Name, e.g., Jane Doe],

[Recipient's Position, e.g., Hiring Manager]

[Company Name, e.g., ABC Corporation]

[Company Address]

[City, State/Country]

Dear [Recipient's Name],

As a seasoned [Your Profession] with [Number of Years of Experience] years of industry experience, I am eager to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. With my experience in [Your Industry/Sector] and the successes I've achieved throughout my education and career, I believe I can bring unique value and creativity to your team.

In my current role as [Your Current Job Title], I've taken the lead on more than [Number of Projects/Assignments] projects, some valued up to $[Highest Project Value]. I pride myself on consistently exceeding client expectations and have successfully [Mention a Key Achievement] in just a [Amount of Time] through [Skill] and [Skill].

I've collaborated with various professionals, such as [List Roles], ensuring that all [projects/tasks] meet [relevant standards or objectives]. This hands-on experience, coupled with my dedication to understanding each [client's/customer's] vision, has equipped me to navigate and deliver on complex projects.

My key strengths include:

• Improving [Achievement] by [%] over [Amount of Time] which resulted in [Quantified Result].
• Optimizing [Work Process/Responsibility] which saved [Previous Employer] [Amount of Time/Budget/Other Metric] over [Weeks/Months/Years]
• Spearheading team of [Number of People] to [Task] and achieving [Quantified Result].

Alongside this letter, I've attached my resume. My educational background, a [Your Degree] with a concentration in [Your Specialization], complements the practical skills that I'm particularly eager to share with [Company Name].

I'm excited about the possibility of contributing to [Something Notable About the Company or Its Mission]. I'd be grateful for the chance to delve deeper into how my expertise aligns with your needs.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

The Heart of Your Job Search - Creating a Killer Resume

Your cover letter is only as good as your resume. If either one is weak, your entire application falls through.

After all, your cover letter is meant to complement your resume. Imagine going through all this effort to leave an amazing first impression in your cover letter, only for the hiring manager to never read it because your resume was mediocre.

But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered here, too.

Check out our dedicated guide on how to make a resume and learn everything you need to know to land your dream job!

Just pick one of our resume templates and start writing your own job-winning resume.

Key Takeaways

Now that we’ve walked you through all the steps of writing a cover letter, let’s summarize everything we’ve learned:

• A cover letter is a 250 - 400 word document that’s meant to convince the hiring manager that you’re the best candidate for the job.
• Your job application should always include a cover letter alongside your resume.
• To grab the hiring manager’s attention, write a strong opening paragraph. Mention who you are, why you’re applying, and a standout achievement to pique their interest.
• Your cover letter should focus on why you’re the perfect candidate for the job and why you’re passionate about working in this specific company.
• Use the body of your cover letter to provide details on your skills, achievements, and qualifications, as well as make sure to convey your enthusiasm throughout your whole cover letter.
• Recap your key selling points towards the end of your cover letter, and end it with a formal closing line and your full name signed underneath.

At Novorésumé, we’re committed to helping you get the job you deserve every step of the way! 

Follow our career blog for more valuable advice, or check out some of our top guides, such as:

• How to Make a Resume in 2024 | Beginner's Guide
• How to Write a CV (Curriculum Vitae) in 2024 [31+ Examples]
• 35+ Job Interview Questions and Answers [Full List]

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Everything about a cover letter

What is a cover letter for a job.

A cover letter is part of a resume that concisely presents more information about you as an applicant. A good cover letter has several short paragraphs, shows your interest in the job and any relevant experience you have. As you discover how to write a cover letter, we have some answers to commonly asked questions.

The type of cover letter you use depends on the job description, the company at which you are applying and your personal goals. As you revise your cover letter, highlight your knowledge about the company’s mission, values and culture, and show how you fit into their long-term vision.

An application letter is not always required for job applications. However, looks more professional and shows effort on the applicant’s part. There are four types of cover letters:

• Value proposition letter: this gives a summary of why you are unique and is similar to the “tell me about yourself” interview question.
• Letter of interest: this type of letter shows that you are interested in working for a company even if they don’t have current open positions, and shows why you are qualified and an asset.
• Referral: this format is ideal when you know someone at the company who referred you to the position.
• Application: the most common cover letter, this provides details about relevant experience and education, and allows you to delve into things that aren’t appropriate in a resume .

Why is a cover letter important for a job application?

A cover letter is important for a job application because it gives more insight into your personality and qualifications than are listed on your resume. It’s an important tool to present yourself as an asset to the company. A great cover letter helps you stand out from the competition when a hiring manager may go through hundreds of applications for each job.

Your cover letter is the initial introduction a company has of you. If it’s well-written and covers your most important strengths, it may propel you to the top of the applicant pool. It emphasizes your core competencies to catch the hiring manager’s attention.

A good job letter also shows personality. Because of space constraints, resumes can often be blunt and to the point with no room for the reader to get a sense of your personality. Therefore, your cover letter highlights the personality traits that make you a good candidate. These traits include things like being self-motivated, a good leader or organized. In your cover letter, elaborate on why you want to make an employment change and why this opportunity is for you.

You can also show your passion for the industry or job. A well-written cover letter emphasizes your understanding of the company’s vision and how you fit into it. A powerful letter shows how the company benefits from your impact.

Finally, a cover letter highlights your writing ability. Employers value those who can articulate their thoughts in writing, and this shows excellent communication skills.

How should a cover letter look in 2024?

A good cover letter is both formatted and flexible. Using cover letter templates can help ensure that you get the right information across to the hiring manager, but it’s still important to adjust and tailor each letter to the specific job application.

Heading: This section should include your name, physical address, phone number and email address. Furthermore, you can use a professional email and include links to an online portfolio, your professional website or relevant social media sites.

Salutation: If you know the name of the hiring manager, use it for a personalized touch. If not, a generic "Dear Hiring Manager" can suffice.

Opening Statement: The first paragraph is an strong opening statement about who you are, what job you want and when you are available. You can skip specific details like the company name in this section.

Company Alignment: Here, dive into why you're drawn to the particular company and the role. Emphasize your passion for the industry and how you see yourself contributing to the organization's goals.

Motivation: The third paragraph is for motivating why you believe you are the best candidate for the job. Here, mention any relevant experience you’ve had, and why you will excel in this job. While your past employment and education are included in your resume or CV , this is the place to add one or two experiences that stand out and make you a good candidate. 

Conclusion: The final paragraph is an outro, and should stay simple and concise. Mention your attached resume, specify where and when you can be reached, and mention that you’d love the chance to discuss the opportunity more.

Should I customize my cover letter for every job application?

Using cover letter and resume templates is a great way to get a basic outline to start and takes save a lot of time as all the formatting is taken care for you. However, it is highly recommended that your cover letter should be customized and tailored for each specific job and role that you're applying for.

A personal cover letter shows you’ve done your research on the company and the position and it provides you with a great opportunity to stand-out from the rest of the competition.

There are several ways to make a cover letter more personal. One way is to connect your personal value to the company’s values. This requires time and research on your part. Read the website and browse their social media profiles to get an idea of what is important to them. Some companies value the bottom line while others focus on their long-term effects on the world, and if you understand that, you can tie your personal values and work ethic into their goals. 

When possible, use the hiring manager or recruiter’s name. Not only does this personalize your letter, it also ensures that your application goes to the right person. 

Share your professional goals. Discuss how the job directly impacts your career path and what you’ve done to create a solid foundation. Pinpoint how the job you’re applying for matches your long-term goals and how you will be an asset to the company.

As you do research to personalize your cover letter, you learn more about every company. This can also give you insight into companies that you don’t want to work for, whose values don’t align with yours.

How do I use Jobseeker’s cover letter generator?

Jobseeker offers CV and resume examples , as well as templates for resumes, CVs and cover letters. Our tool is easy to use and has several free options. Simply click Get Started on our website and click on create a new cover letter to begin.

You can choose from a formal letter, or email and digital text. Input a photo if you choose, your personal information, email address and phone number. There is a spot to fill in the recipient, the date and subject, the introduction, your current job situation, what your motivation is for the job and a closing paragraph. These spots include drop downs that help guide you through the creating process.

Simply fill in these spots and our tool will populate the cover letter. Choose from 12 different styles including Elegant, Professional, Modern and Simple. Adjust the font, size and color to create a cover letter that reflects your goals and personality. 

Jobseeker also allows you to digitally attach a signature, upload your resume and create a custom paragraph for any other information you want to add. This tool is available in a variety of languages and can be downloaded (in PDF format) or printed. You can use the same template to personalize a cover letter each time you apply for a new job.

Can I format my cover letter with Jobseeker’s cover letter generator?

Our convenient tool allows you to not only choose your format, spacing and font, but you can also move each section to where you feel is appropriate. To change the order, simply hover over the section and click the six dots to the left of the text. Use the mouse to move the section where you want it. 

While our examples and templates are a good guideline, we recognize that ultimately it’s your opinion that matters most. We recommend that your personal details, date and subject, recipient and introduction remain in the order we’ve provided, but ultimately you can change the order to fit the job.

Our system mimics that of other word processing programs (such as Google Docs and Microsoft Word) to make it easy to use. Within the Introduction section, our system guides you to choose between four types of applications: open application, response to ad in newspaper or magazine, response to online ad, and other. 

Once you’ve chosen from the dropdowns in each section, the text automatically populates on the cover letter. Our text gives you a starting point, but you can edit any information to match your purposes. As each paragraph is added and you make edits, read through the information and check that your tone and writing style match.

How can I send the cover letter after it is created?

Once your cover letter is done and all applicable fields are filled in, you can download the document as a PDF and send it along with your resume or CV to the recruiter or hiring manager. We also offer an option to receive the cover letter as a plain email if that option works for you.

When writing your cover letter, don’t forget to attach your resume before you send it to the hiring manager or recruiter. Proofread your cover letter every time you change it, and browse our samples to find a professional tone with appropriate language.

What makes Jobseeker’s cover letter builder the best?

When it comes to cover letter, resume and CV templates and resume templates , we have many great options to choose from. However, ease-of-use is where our builder shines above the rest. We strive to keep Jobseeker’s tools updated and customized to match your needs. The benefits of using Jobseeker include the following:

• Our user-friendly interface makes the creation process simple for those with basic technology experience.
• Our tool allows you to build a cover letter, CV or resume in more than 20 languages.
• We provide diverse options when it comes to templates, with more than ten styles to choose from.
• We allow you to adjust your text, font and spacing to be more exciting, which helps you create an eye-catching cover letter.
• With our easy formatting tool it is simple to add, remove or move various sections.
• When you use Jobseeker, you can match your cover letter template to your CV or resume template.

As you browse resume, cover letter and CV examples on our website, you can run through our cover letter maker to see for yourself how easy it is to use, and how quickly we can help you create an eye-catching, attention-grabbing cover letter. Present your best professional image with a well-written, personalized cover letter created with the the Jobseeker tool.

How many words should a cover letter be?

The appropriate length of a cover letter can vary depending on the position and industry, but as a general guideline, it is recommended to keep it concise and focused. A well-crafted cover letter typically ranges from 250 to 400 words. It is important to remember that hiring managers often have limited time to review applications, so it is best to convey your qualifications and enthusiasm in a clear and succinct manner. Instead of writing lengthy paragraphs, aim to highlight your most relevant strengths and accomplishments, using bullet points or short sentences. By keeping your cover letter within this word count range, you can ensure that it remains engaging and impactful without overwhelming the reader with excessive information.

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Write A Killer Cover Letter In 15 Minutes With This Simple Formula

T here are some things that college just doesn’t prepare you for. For example, how to dress business casual (seriously, how ?), or how to prepare for working a 9-to-5 job for the rest of your life. As someone who has recently entered the world of job searching , I’m finding that there’s one thing I really wish I had learned in a college class: How to write a cover letter.

Most jobs I’ve seen require both a resume and cover letter to apply, and I’ve found myself dreading having to write a new letter for every single position I want. (Seriously, who has time for all this?) I know I’m not alone: In a 2024 Her Campus survey of 562 respondents, nearly 3 out of 10 said they are unlikely to apply for a job that requires a cover letter. While taking the extra time to write a cover letter seems like a pain, skipping out on applying altogether could mean you end up missing out on some great opportunities.

When you’re trying to put yourself out there to employers, crafting individual letters can really slow the process down; honestly, it’s discouraging to think about spending hours and hours writing when you want to be searching for more opportunities. 

To perfect the art of writing a quick and easy cover letter, I spoke with LinkedIn’s Top Recruiting Voice and Director of Recruitment at Swan Resumes, Brittney Swan . Not only did I get some amazing advice on what to include in one of these letters, but Swan also gave me tips to create the perfect cover letter template that you can use any time you need one. And the best part is, it won’t take you more than 15 minutes to put together.

First, let’s establish what a cover letter is.

So, what is a cover letter, exactly? Cover letters are an introduction to your resume and your application. “It should be a quick snapshot of your qualifications and it should directly link your experience with a specific job description or company,” Swan tells Her Campus.

When you’re browsing LinkedIn or Indeed, job posts will (hopefully) have a blurb that describes the positions, tasks, and qualifications the company is looking for. This is what you want to connect your own skills and experiences to in your cover letter. 

It’s important to distinguish what a cover letter shouldn’t be, though. “Candidates might not realize that cover letters are not the same as a letter of intent or a SOQ letter (which is a set of questions designed to demonstrate your knowledge on a subject),” Swan says. “Companies [may] ask for a letter of intent , which means you need to explain what you would do in the role if accepted versus a cover letter, which is explaining your qualifications and professional experiences.” 

One other thing a cover letter should not be is a retelling of your life story. Adding extra information that is not needed or not applicable can actually hurt your chances of getting hired. “Your life story, your family’s life story, or personal information can make it illegal to hire you based on [workplace] bias laws,” Swan says. So, it’s best to stay away from these personal details in a cover letter. 

Here’s a quick and easy format hack for your cover letter intro.

Essentially, the simple format for a cover letter is this: an introduction + qualification + qualification + qualification + conclusion = a completed letter. 

A great way to open your letter is by establishing your interest in the company and giving a brief introduction to your recent experience. “Write an opening statement starting with the job title and explaining your experience,” Swan says.  “Then write what you’re looking for in this role or joining the company — growth, challenge, et cetera.”

Swan provided a sample introduction that you can tailor to your own needs: 

“This letter is to express my interest in joining your growing organization, through an open (title) position. The last XXX years have encompassed [explanation, explanation, explanation]. My hope is to become a part of your organization, as I believe [explanation, explanation, explanation].” 

Here’s what to include in the middle. 

After your intro, this is where the bulk of your explanation comes in. “The second paragraph directly links what the company is asking for with the experiences you have,” Swan says. This is a great time to tie in all that information from the job posting blurb back to what you bring to the table. 

This explanation section doesn’t have to be super long. It’s just telling the company that over the span of however many years, you did a certain amount of relevant work, and since the job listing indicates a need for someone with a certain set of skills, you believe you would be a great fit for the position. 

Then wrap it all up with a short and sweet conclusion.

Closing out a cover letter can be thought of like any other concluding paragraph, or the end of a term paper. You want to reiterate your main points briefly, and then thank the hiring manager for their time or consideration. 

Swan gives another excellent sample, saying in the closing: 

“Given the opportunity, I can bring significant value to your corporation by utilizing my specific skill sets, work experience, and education. I have enclosed my resume and appreciate the time you have taken to get to know who I am and what I could possibly offer to this already inspiring system.”

Cover letters don’t have to be stressful or ridiculously long. Just remember to stick to some basic formatting like this so you don’t overthink it, and you’ll be a pro just like that!

For more insights on navigating a difficult job market and the top jobs, industries, and cities to pursue right now, check out  LinkedIn’s 2024 Guide to Kickstarting Your Career .

The post Write A Killer Cover Letter In 15 Minutes With This Simple Formula first appeared on Her Campus .