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How to write an NZ cover letter (with examples and templates)

Along with your CV, a cover letter is essential to any NZ job application. Let's get you started.

Every New Zealand job application should include a cover letter.

This document is key to showing an employer you’re serious about their vacancy, and for demonstrating what you bring to the table . Despite its importance, many people aren’t sure how to write a cover letter – and their applications suffer as a result.

That’s why we’ve created this guide, giving you advice on everything from what to include, to how to lay it out.

We’ve also snuck in a few examples to make life even easier for you … aren’t we nice?

Cover letters vs. CVs: what’s the difference?

To understand the role cover letters play in job applications, it’s important to realise how they differ from CVs:

1. Purpose:

CVs give a broad picture of you as an applicant – providing details such as educational background and employment history . By contrast, a cover letter targets why you want this specific role, and how your skills and experience make you a great candidate.

While there will be areas of overlap as you select qualifications or abilities to draw out in your cover letter, it definitely should not be an elongated version of your CV.

An NZ cover letter should be no longer than one page, while CVs are usually between one and two.

The most obvious visual difference between these documents and CVs hinges around bullet points.

While your CV should be a bullet point bonanza, cover letters favour full sentences. That’s not to say you can’t have any bullets in a cover letter, just use them more sparingly.

You should include a cover letter with every job application.

What to include in a cover letter

1. your contact info, the date and the business’ address.

At the top of your cover letter should be:

• Your full name, contact details and home address
• The date you submit the application
• The business’ postal address

It should look like this:

Head up your cover letter like this.

2. Your opener

People worry about how to start a cover letter , but there’s a simple formula and structure for getting this right:

Make it personal : start with ‘dear’, and address it to a person – i.e. the hiring manager. If their name isn’t in the job listing, try a good old fashioned stalk of the company website, or ring the business and find out. ‘To whom it may concern’ is a no go.

Make it clear : organisations often list multiple vacancies at a time, so make it obvious which position you’re applying for. A sentence like, ‘I’m writing to apply for the Marketing Assistant role, as advertised on Trade Me Jobs’, will do the trick.

Make it punchy : next, add a snappy one-liner summing up why you’re interested in the role and what you’d bring to their business. Remember, you can go into more detail in the interview itself. For example:

3. Why them

A common cover letter mistake is to only focus on yourself. Before choosing you, employers want to know why you’re choosing them. This helps sort candidates who are genuinely passionate about their organisation from those who are mass applying to anything and everything.

Warning : this section is not about inflating the hiring manager's ego by flattering the company – be positive, but be thoughtful.

Now, it’s time to sell yourself.

This section of your cover letter is where you highlight your most relevant skills and experience.

You can draw on anything from previous work experience to certificates and qualifications. The important bit is linking whatever you mention to the job – simply listing skills is not the answer.

To do this effectively, you need to carefully study the job ad and identify what capabilities the employer values most. If your Trade Me Jobs Profile is up-to-date, you can then quickly skim your skills and experience to find those which most closely match the job description.

Top tip: the more detail you can give, the better. Helped raise sales? Great. Helped raise sales by 6%? Even better.

If you want to add some extra skills or information to this section, a bullet point list is a good option. Note : only do this after introducing your headline examples in full sentence form, as above, and keep your list to three or four concise bullets.

5. Signing off

The end of your cover letter should (politely) prompt the reader to get in touch with you to arrange the next steps. Make sure you end on a high, and continue the energy from earlier in your closing sentence, for example:

How to format a cover letter

With your content sorted, it’s now about nailing the visuals. Cover letters are usually easier than CVs in this regard, as they’re laid out like a traditional letter. However, there are a few things to bear in mind:

• What font should I use? Keep it simple, and the same as on your CV. If your font is hard to read, or too small, the letter will end up in the wrong pile.
• How long should a cover letter be? New Zealand cover letters should be under one page long.
• Should I use paragraphs? Would you read huge, unbroken chunks of text? We doubt it, so make sure to break up your cover letters into paragraphs.
• What are the correct cover letter margins? Leave these at their default setting so your cover letter has plenty of blank space, and doesn’t look crowded.

All done? Not quite.

Perhaps the most important stage of cover letter writing is proofreading. After all that hard work, you don’t want a few silly typos or poor punctuation letting you down.

So check it yourself, then get someone else to have a look, then have a final glance.

Once you’re happy, it’s time to attach it to your application, and hit send.

Al Hall is a regular contributor at Trade Me Jobs and Trade Me Property. He’s dedicated to helping people succeed in their aspirations to find their dream job and place to live.

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The importance of cover letter, what is a cover letter.

Let’s go back to basics – what is a cover letter? A cover letter acts as a personal introduction in a professional setting. Usually, it’s a separate document that you attach to a job application along with your CV. You should use it to demonstrate your personality and summarise why you are the right person for the job, so the reader can consider the rest of your CV with this set up in mind.

Follow our tips for how to write a cover letter or download our cover letter template.

Why write a cover letter? 

The idea for writing cover letters for your resume is simple: it needs to be engaging enough for an employer to read to feel compelled to find out more about your skills and experience in your resume, before (hopefully) calling you in for an interview.

Not all candidates make the effort to write a tailored and personalised cover letter, so by making sure you write a cover letter that answers specifics needs in the job ad, it’ll help separate you from other applicants. In turn, giving you a greater likelihood of being shortlisted for an interview.  

Download your Cover Letter template 

Enter your details below to download your Cover Letter template. A copy of the template will be emailed to you shortly.

How to write a cover letter | Video | UB

Cover letter advice.

Recruiters & hiring managers often receive hundreds of applications for each job. You need to start with a great cover letter to gain attention. Learn how with this video from Hays.

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• Keep it succinct and relevant to the job you’re applying for. Your cover letter should not exceed five paragraphs. 
• State what your motivation is behind your application. 
• Just as you would in your CV,  use strong verbs  to demonstrate action and accomplishments, such as ‘organise’ or ‘supervise’. 
• Optimise the subject line. Also check the job description again, in case the employer asks applicants to include something specific in the subject line. 
• If you are applying for a job online rather than email, consider putting your cover letter and resume into the same document so they don’t get separated. 
• Remember, our cover letter template is free to download and can be used as another way to capture the attention of a recruiter or hiring manager and encourage them to more closely review your resume. Good luck.

How to write a cover letter | 7th content block | UB

Do i really need a cover letter, how long should a cover letter be, what are some common mistakes people make when writing cover letters, how do i format a cover letter, hays new zealand salary guide 2022-2023 - salary checker | ub.

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When you apply for a job, employers will look at your:

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They'll use this to decide if they want to interview you, so it's really important to make a good impression.

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Careers.govt.nz has great advice about:

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How To Master a Cover Letter for New Zealand [Examples & Tips]

Although you might don’t want to, yet in most cases, you need to include a cover letter when applying for a job in New Zealand. NZ cover letter is similar to other countries; it should show the company why you are the right candidate for the job. Take your time to write a personal and customized letter. Never send the generic one; this can ruin your application from the start.

A cover letter is a monumental part of your job application in New Zealand. A good cover letter should answer the main question, which is why the company should hire you. Additionally, it must provide information on how you can bring value to the company and help them with the challenges. A cover letter should showcase the relevant skills and experience you have.

In most cases, businesses and recruiters in New Zealand will require you to attach a customized cover letter. And it’s a good thing for you. In the end, the cover letter is a claim for the role – it’s your chance to highlight and match your experience against the job description and to clearly state what you can offer your potential employer.

If you are looking for a job in New Zealand, I would highly recommend going through the Job Hunter’s handbook made by Careers.govt.nz.

Table of Contents

Is a cover letter necessary in New Zealand?

Unfortunately, yes, you need to include a customized cover letter when applying for a job in New Zealand. Almost  half of the recruiters reject applications without a cover letter. A high-quality, customized cover letter tells the manager you are a dedicated professional. It should be only a page long.

A resume or CV alone can show your achievements and qualifications, but it can’t tell the story and explain why you choose this company in particular. That’s why we need a cover letter. It’s also a great tool to show your personality and motivation. It must show the employer you are an asset to their company.

Are you resigning from your previous job? Read how to write a proper resignation letter .

Resignation Letter in New Zealand (Examples + Template)

Tips and guidance for a winner cover letter

So what is a cover letter, and why it’s so important for your job application in New Zealand?

• Cover letter is your first point of contact with employers .
• It should fit on one page .
• It needs to explain why you want this job .
• It should relate to your CV .
• It should describe your relevant skills, experience, and accomplishments .
• It should show the evidence that you have researched the company and that you are the right candidate.

If you follow these simple statements, you should already be able to create a decent letter. Yet, if you want more, read this article to the end and follow the advice.

The winning tactic here is focusing on  them , not just on  you,  which will ultimately make you stand out from other applicants

When writing your cover letter, pay attention to the following:

• Do very extensive research about the company. Show it in the cover letter.
• Reflect on the company’s vision.
• Highlight specific achievements and successes that show you can address the challenges the employer is facing.
• Show your personality.
• Prove that you understand the challenges of the company.
• Explain your motivation and fit for the position.
• Presents how your skills and experience as a solution for the company.
• Create a list of job keywords that are mentioned in the job ad. Include them in the cover letter.
• Address the cover letter to the right person, e.g., the hiring manager or recruiter
• Be clear and concise
• Have a structure in the letter – beginning, middle, end
• Use active words to describe your work – accomplished, achieved, led, created, increased, identified
• Finish with a call to action and ask for a meeting.
• Try to be funny
• Send a generic cover letter — customize each one for the specific job.
• Forget your full contact details
• Generic and boring opening paragraph
• Copy-paste from the CV or job ad
• Start every sentence with “I”
• Write more than one page

Looking for a job? Check out the best recruitment agencies in New Zealand .

Best Recruitment Agencies in New Zealand 2024

1. Research about the company and position

Your knowledge about the company you are applying to work for is crucial. You must also know all the essential details about the advertised position and how your skills and experience fit in.

When someone reads your cover letter, they must be sure you are the right candidate for this position and for this company. That’s why you must include as many tailored to the job ad details as possible (yet not too many).

So, look for information on the company, its key products or services, its mission, and anything else that gives you an insight into them. Notice the most important details and mention them in the cover letter where appropriate.

You might want to check out the company’s website, its executives’ Twitter feeds, and LinkedIn profiles.

The culture of the organization is vital to note. This will influence your communication style. For instance, you might be more casual with start-ups or advertising agencies but more formal with banks and large corporations.

2. Show how you can help

A company hires you to solve a problem or to help with challenging tasks they are unable to manage. Point out the things you can do for a company and which potential results it might bring. Or maybe you already were challenged with similar tasks? Mention it in your cover letter!

3. Why are you a perfect fit?

The second paragraph of your cover letter should give a clear idea to the reader why you are the one and that you will satisfy the company’s specific needs.

Here you should match the keywords mentioned in the job ad with your skills and experience. You also must show the hiring manager why you want this job, not just any job. Include all the enthusiasm and passion you have.

Match your skills with a job ad

Highlight the key skills and qualities in the ad, e.g.:

• strong written and verbal communication
• technical skills
• analytical thinking
• team player or teamwork
• problem-solving
• time management
• knowledge of software & tools
• specialized or technical competencies
• high level of computer competency
• ability to work well under pressure
• enthusiasm and initiative
• excellent customer service

Include them in the cover letter with real-life examples.

Connections matter in New Zealand

About 70% of all jobs in New Zealand are so-called hidden. They are simply not advertised because hiring managers seek candidates within the company, their circle of colleagues, and people they know before they post a job ad. For that reason, having connections in New Zealand is very crucial.

You are more likely to be invited to an interview if you know a friend of a friend and they got a reference they you rather than just based on your qualifications and experience.

That might be good news for some and bad news for others. Nonetheless, it’s highly recommended to start networking as soon as you land in New Zealand. Join groups, participate in social and professional events, work on your Linkedin profile, and just be proactive.

And if you are lucky to know someone in the company you are applying to work for, mention it in the first sentence or two of your cover letter.

Don’t forget to include

Your cover letter shouldn’t miss these small but key elements:

Your personal value and personality

While skills and experiences are indeed critical, New Zealanders love human connection. If they find you an interesting and nice person, they are more likely to move forward with your application.

Try to be personal in your cover letter; tell them more unique things about you and your experience. Avoid being general at any cost.

Reflect on your experience that relates to the job ad and company profile. What challenges have you faced, and how did you solve them? You also want to provide evidence of the things you mention by using concrete examples, situations, numbers, and facts. For example:

“During the last quarter, my company was challenged by the supply shortage of …We have had 200% more orders than we can ever fulfill. To solve this problem, I was on the lookout for new suppliers for several weeks; after dozens of selling calls, I finally managed to sign a contract with our best supplier so far. I will never come across them otherwise.”

Your enthusiasm

In many cases, people don’t get hired because they aren’t enthusiastic and convincing enough. So, it’s not the lack of skills; it’s your desire and how you show it. If you make it as if it was your dream job, you are more likely to be invited. Avoid at any cost writing in a manner as you are doing a company a favor by working for them.

Hiring managers even say, “Enthusiasm conveys personality.” Some tips that help you to point out your enthusiasm include:

• Show that you have thought about the job and why you would like to work for them.
• Why is this company so brilliant? What they do the best? How they stand out?
• Mention their reputation, performance, and product.
• Remember, it’s about what you can do for them, not what they can do for you.

NZ cover letter structure

Following the formal structure when piecing together a cover letter is as much as important as its content. So, make sure you stick to New Zealand standards. Here is an example:

Dear [Ms. or Mr. Surname],

• Opening – Explain why you are writing this letter (add an interesting one-liner summarizing why you’re interested in the role and what you’d bring to their business.)
• Explain your interest in the job, show knowledge about the company and position
• Demonstrate your skills and experience related to the job
• Explain why you will fit into this role and which value you will bring to the company
• Sign off and offer them to contact you

Yours sincerely,

Your name – Andrew Black.

Make sure you check your cover letter via Grammarly for spelling and grammar mistakes!

Cover letter introduction

The introduction sentences will determine whether the hiring manager will read on or skip your resume. Start your cover letter in an unconventional way and hold the reader’s interest. Here are some tips for a stellar introduction:

• Highlight your achievements in the industry.
• Display your passion and enthusiasm.
• Mention some names and numbers.

A no-go cover letter introduction looks like this:

In response to your posting for the Digital Marketing Manager position, I would like to express my interest in participating in the recruitment process. As a digital marketing manager with 8+ years of experience, I am optimistic that I would succeed in this role.

Top cover letter example

Since you already know how to write the header, here is only the main part of the cover letter.

” I am writing regarding the Marketing Manager position you currently have open. As a marketer with over 5 years of experience managing small and larger teams, I would love to take a challenge and work for your company. Marketing is my passion, so it’s to achieve monthly goals, generate new leads & sales, and train the team for success.

In my previous role at (company name), I reached not only the set marketing goals but exceeded them by 80% and, in some months, even 120%. Your company (name) already has brilliant strategies in place, you use paid advertising, social media, and outreach, but I would add other channels to ramp up the reach and revenue. I am experienced and knowledgeable in the SEO scene; hence we can explore new opportunities for your business in this area of marketing.

My previous team of marketing assistants was great! I love to work with people and guide them in our current strategies. At the same time, responsibility for people does not make me stressed or scared but ignites my motivation to bring even better results so we can all be proud as a team.

Besides, my Master’s degree in Business taught me fundamental knowledge about organizations, management, strategy, and agility, which I would be happy to apply when working for (company).

It will be great to talk in person one day. You can reach me at 123456789 any time or via email at [email protected] to arrange an interview. Thank you for your consideration, I look forward to hearing from you.

Cover letter for a visa application

Im most cases, Immigration New Zealand, will request a cover or so-called motivational letter together with your visa application. This is generally a less complex document that you would write for the employer.

Your cover letter for a visa should include:

• Reasons why you are moving or visiting New Zealand
• How are you going to support yourself
• Demonstration of how you meet the criteria for the visa

The content of the cover letter will vary depending on the visa type you are applying for. If it’s, for instance, to join a partner in New Zealand, you should include your relationship to them and explain it briefly.

Therefore, your cover letter should target your visa category’s main requirements. 

When I was applying for a student visa, my cover letter described why I decided to study in New Zealand and what are my plans after my studies. Immigration New Zealand also mentioned in their requirements that the cover letter must include these details.

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Free Cover Letter Templates

Stand out and get hired faster with our collection of free professional cover letter templates expertly-designed to land you the perfect position.

Reviewed, community-centred and expert-approved

General cover letter templates.

A general cover letter template can help you stand out from the crowd and get you noticed faster. All of our cover letter samples, including our general cover letter template provided below, can be adjusted to suit a wide range of jobs and industries. No matter what type of job you’re applying for, we’ve got something for everyone. 

Be sure to enhance your cover letter template by incorporating specific examples from your professional and educational background. Remember, each cover letter represents an opportunity to showcase to the employer why you are the perfect fit for the role, so make the most of it!

Get noticed and hired faster by using this Sales Assistant cover letter example. This cover letter has been especially designed for Sales Assistant roles in 2024. We make it easy to make effortlessly stunning cover letters quicky and efficiently.

What makes our cover letter templates stand out?

At cvapp.nz, we understand the transformative impact a good job can have on your life. That's why we've created compelling cover letter templates designed to captivate and leave a lasting impression on employers.

Here's just a few reasons why our cover letter templates can help elevate your professional potential:

• Expert Approved Designs: Our team of skilled graphic designers are constantly developing and updating our cover letter templates to ensure they align with industry expectations. With a variety of template styles ranging from simple and modern to professional and creative , we’re proud to offer ideal cover letter templates for every individual.
• HR-Endorsed Templates: We collaborate with experienced HR and recruitment professionals to ensure our cover letter templates align with the criteria set by today's employers. By staying informed on the latest recruitment practices, our templates can keep you one step ahead of the competition.
• Easy Customisation: In addition to our professionally designed free cover letter templates, we provide a user-friendly cover letter builder to help job-seekers tailor their application letters with ease. With convenient features and helpful advice, our cover letter builder simplifies the process of crafting an exceptional cover letter.
• AI-Powered Technology: Even the most skilled writers need some support now and then; that's why we've integrated AI-generated content into our cover letter builder. Our AI tools allow for easy customisation, and with an advanced spelling and grammar checker, our builder can help identify and improve any potentially costly mistakes in your cover letter.

Most jobs will specify whether they require your cover letter in PDF or Word Docx format. In our online cover letter builder, We make it easy to edit your cover letter and download your template in either format. Check it out for yourself!

How to choose the right cover letter template:

Since each applicant and job role is unique, a standardised cover letter can hinder your chances of being noticed by employers. That's why we've created an extensive range of cover letter templates to help you create a job-winning cover letter. Say bye-bye to boring templates!

Our cover letter builder allows for effortless transitions between templates. That's right: You can quickly customise your cover letter and tailor it to your own individual preferences with ease. Our collection of free cover letter templates is divided into four distinct categories:

• Creative: For industries or job titles that demand a dynamic presentation, check out our creative cover letter templates . With vivid colour palettes, fun fonts and dazzling designs, a creative cover letter can help you stand out from the crowd. We recommend using a creative cover letter if you're applying for roles in industries such as film, television, design , photography, art, architecture and content creation.
• Modern: For applicants applying to industries that thrive on fresh thinking and progressive ideas, our modern cover letter templates may be the best option for you. Our modern cover letter layouts show off sleek lines, crisp fonts, and a balanced blend of both white space and text blocks. These templates are best for professionals in the IT, marketing , administration , and sales industries.
• Professional: There are times when it's important to stick to more conventional template designs, and that's where our professional templates shine. These templates offer classic designs with traditional fonts and well-organised sections. Opting for a professional cover letter template is best for applicants applying to industries such as business, healthcare, education , engineering , accounting , and finance.
• Simple : Last but not least, our simple cover letters are a timeless and traditional option for a diverse range of job positions and candidates. Ideal for students, individuals new to the workforce, and those in industries like hospitality, transportation, logistics, and retail , these simple templates are incredibly versatile and provide an excellent starting point for crafting any cover letter.

How do I create a great cover letter? 

A great cover letter requires highlighting why you’re the ideal candidate for the role by outlining your professional expertise and strengths. To do this, you’ll need the following sections:

A well-designed header: To stand out from the crowd, you'll need an attractive header to display your name and contact information. Your header is usually positioned at the top or along the side of the page. Here, you'll want to include essential contact information such as a phone number, email address, and any links to relevant professional websites.

An attractive and appropriate colour scheme: While it may not be appropriate for all industries, incorporating a pop of colour or fresh formatting can enhance the visual appeal of your cover letter. At cvapp.nz, we offer a range of alluring cover letter designs and attractive colour schemes that can help bring your cover letter to life. 

A suitable font choice : Effective cover letters employ font styles and sizes that are well-structured and appropriate for the industry or job role you're applying for. We simplify the cover letter creation process in our online builder by automatically choosing the correct font and size for your cover letter template.

Balanced white space to text ratio: A great cover letter should have a balanced ratio of text to white space to prevent visual strain on the reader. Fortunately, all of our cover letter templates are formatted by industry experts. Check it out for yourself! 

Diverse roles may call for different cover letter formats , which is why we've simplified the process of adjusting colours, line spacing, or entire templates in our cover letter builder.

Cover Letter Structure: 

Before you get started, it’s important to know how a cover letter is structured. You’ll need to include the following sections: 

• A tailored greeting: The way potential employers are addressed at the start of the cover letter. For example, “ Dear Mr. Rapana ,” or “ Tēnā koe, Mrs. Roberts.”  
• An interesting introduction: The initial opening sentences after your greeting introduce who you are and the position you’re applying for.   
• Captivating body paragraphs: The main paragraphs of your cover letter where you elaborate upon your professional experience, skills, and why you’re the best candidate for the job. Don’t forget to use strong examples, facts and figures where possible.   
• An appropriate conclusion and sign-off: The final sentences include a strong call-to-action statement motivating employers to reach out at a later stage, as well as an appropriate farewell statement. For example, “Ngā mihi, Melanie Harawera,” or “Yours sincerely, Jack Williams.” 

Cover Letter FAQs:

How should i format my cover letter .

An effective cover letter format grabs the interest of employers with an appealing design layout and an appropriate font. Additionally, your cover letter should also provide clear and concise details about your professional background, skills and qualifications. There are a range of different formats you can use, but the best format for you largely depends on your professional background. 

How long should my cover letter be? 

A well-crafted cover letter should fall within the range of 250-350 words . This is usually around three paragraphs long. If your cover letter is too short, you run the risk of employers questioning whether you're experienced enough or suitable for the job role. If your cover letter is too long, you may lose the reader's interest. Keeping it within this range will safeguard you from these risks. 

Is there anything I should always include in a cover letter? 

It's essential to always include the name of the company you're applying to and the job position you're interested in for each cover letter you draft. As potential employers may be evaluating candidates for multiple positions concurrently, specifying this information can quickly help employers determine if your cover letter should be considered and taken seriously.

• Include an attractive and industry-appropriate header
• Use data and specific examples to help support your claims
• Keep your white space-to-text ratio balanced
• Adjust the margins to fit more text in or to make your cover letter appear longer
• Include unnecessary details
• Incorporate overly flashy colours or design elements

Do I have to include a cover letter? 

While not every hiring manager reviews cover letters, those who do often use them to determine the shortlist for interviews. 

Imagine losing out on your dream job just because you didn't have a cover letter! For this reason, we recommend submitting a cover letter for each new job opportunity. Fortunately, all of our cover letter templates come with 

How do I end a cover letter? 

We recommend incorporating a call-to-action statement at the conclusion of your cover letter. For example: "If possible, I'd love to meet with you at your earliest convenience." This concluding statement showcases your enthusiasm for the role and subtly suggests that the hiring manager reach out to you for an interview. 

The final lines of your cover letter should end with an appropriate farewell, such as “Yours sincerely,” or “Ngā mihi, ” followed by your full name. 

How do I address a cover letter if I don’t know the name of the recipient? 

While addressing the hiring manager by name in your cover letter is best to help forge a personal connection with the recipient, some companies may not disclose the identity of the individual reviewing your application. 

In these situations, a more general greeting such as "Dear (Company Name) Hiring Team" or "Dear (Department Name) Team Lead" is best. 

Try our professional CV builder now!

How to Write a Cover Letter

W hen you submit a resume, do you always include a cover letter? In almost all cases, it is appropriate and wise. The letter allows you to introduce yourself, show your interest in the company, address points that do not belong on a resume, and make yourself stand out.

If you need a little assistance, here's how to write a cover letter, along with tips and templates to help get you started.

1. Customize Your Cover Letter

One of the first things to remember about writing a cover letter is that you should tailor it to the specific position. While using a template does help, you should always customize it for the job and company.

The template should be your starting point, not the end result, with only minor tweaks.

According to Glassdoor :

"When starting to write any cover letter, it is always best to plan the content of your letter based on the requirements of the job you're applying for."

If you plan to use a template, you also want to choose the correct one for the letter. For example, some include salary requirements, while others work better in the creative field.

2. Have a Solid Opening

Some sources say that if you start a cover letter by saying that you are applying for X job that you saw in X advertisement, it is a waste of text. Of course, you must state the position you are applying for.

The opening should cover why you are writing and provide a brief idea of who you are. But be sure to stand out to employers when you say why you want the job and why you are the right fit for it.

As Money.com writer Kristen Bahler writes:

"To grab a recruiter’s attention, a good narrative—with a killer opening line—is everything."

You should think through your opening carefully and show your personality, but avoid corny humor. Be clear, concise, and confident.

3. Know the Company

Take the time to research the company you are applying to so that you can express how your experience can help. Plus, having knowledge of the company is ideal for when you land a job interview .

As Harvard Business Review puts it:

"Hiring managers are looking for people who can help them solve problems. Drawing on the research you did earlier, show that you know what the company does and some of the challenges it faces."

When you have information about the company and its needs, you can then highlight your relevant skills and achievements to show why you are the person for the job.

4. End With Enthusiasm

In your final paragraph, include your contact information, express your enthusiasm, and state if you plan to follow up. Monster.com offers this advice for the closing:

"In your closing paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the position and an interview and include a plan of action. State what the next steps will be. If you will wait for the company’s reply, tell them that. If you will be following up, tell them when they can expect to hear from you."

If you are including additional material with your cover letter and resume, such as a portfolio or sample of your work, be sure to mention this as well. And of course, thank the reader for their consideration.

While your opening should grab their attention, your closing should also be strong and clear.

Helpful Tips to Write a Cover Letter

Here are additional tips to keep in mind when crafting your cover letter:

• Always try to address the letter to a person, don't use "Sir" or "Madam" in your greeting. If necessary, do your research for the proper contact.
• Try to limit the letter to one page. Be succinct and get to the point.
• Do not repeat your resume. Your cover letter should enhance it, not duplicate it.
• Do not point out the skills that you lack. Emphasize and highlight those you have that apply to the position.
• Check and double-check your spelling and grammar.
• Mention your expertise in the software tools the company uses.
• Express how you think the company's values align with yours.
• Point out if someone from the company referred you for the role.

How to Write a Cover Letter With a Template

Along with knowing how to write a cover letter that targets the job you want, is the appearance of it. This is another important part of creating your letter so that it has a clean and professional appearance.

1. Keep It Simple

Microsoft has one of the nicest selections of cover letter templates for you to choose from. Just swap out the text on the template with your own.

2. Add Some Color

You might also want to consider adding a little splash of color to your cover letter to make it visually appealing. Remember, a small amount of color is fine as long as you do not overdo it.

3. Include Salary Requirements

You can also find cover letter templates that include salary requirements, but you can and should adjust it based on your needs and preferences, of course.

However, note that some employers do not appreciate this, so it's wise to include salary requirements in your cover letter only if you're specifically asked for it.

4. Be Creative

If you are applying for a position that involves design or another creative field, you may prefer a cover letter to match, especially if you believe the hiring manager expects it. But, again, remember not to go overboard here.

5. Use a Style

Maybe you are looking for a particular style of cover letter. For instance, an entry-level cover letter is for those lacking experience while a professional one is suitable for those with management experience. Each has different formatting to accompany the highlights of the style.

You can check out different cover letter examples at Resume Genuis . You can download an entire pack from each design with various color options that include helpful prompts.

6. Find Your Industry

When what you really need is a template plus a sample with helpful text for that specific position, review these options on Template . You can download cover letter templates for jobs in nursing, education, retail, technology, business development, and other fields.

The sample text is provided to help you, but remember that you can change it easily to suit your skills and experience.

How Not to Write a Cover Letter

Knowing how to write a cover letter for a job is essential. But just as important is how not to write a cover letter. Here are a handful of things you should leave out when composing your letter:

• Overused phrases like self-starter, detail-oriented, and team player.
• Unnecessary details such as activities you enjoy, personal history, and information unrelated to the job.
• Negative comments about current or previous employers and companies.
• Untruths about your skills, qualifications, and experience.
• Salary requirements or expectations unless specifically requested.

Ready, Set, Write

Now that you know how to write a cover letter, the additional tips and templates will help you on your way to a great letter that leads to an interview. Just remember to use the cover letter to tell your story, briefly but with confidence.