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Land the job with cover letter templates

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

Download free cover letter templates

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

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

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

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Free Cover Letter Templates: Download for Word

Select one of our best cover letter templates below to start crafting the perfect cover letter. Or, scroll down to view our selection of free cover letter templates for Word.

Basic Cover Letter Templates

Each basic cover letter template is formatted for job seekers who want to write a traditional, professional cover letter, without any fancy nonsense.

Traditional

Modern Cover Letter Templates

Each modern cover letter template was designed for the modern job seeker. We’re sure you’ll agree that they’re effective — especially once you’ve landed an interview.

Contemporary

Professional Cover Letter Templates

Each professional cover letter template was crafted for talented and conscientious job seekers. You can download your favorite for free, in a color that speaks to you.

Professional

Gold Standard

Can You Use a Cover Letter Template?

It’s not only acceptable to use a cover letter template, it’s smart.

You may have heard some “experts” claim that using a cover letter template can be detrimental to your job search. We’re here to debunk all these myths once and for all.

Myth 1: Hiring managers disapprove of candidates who use a cover letter template

Hiring managers love cover letters that look professional, are well-written, well-formatted, comprehensive, and follows a standard cover letter format. We know, because that’s exactly what the HR professionals who helped design every resume cover letter template requested.

So why would they ever look down on someone using a template that is perfectly formulated to fulfill those requirements? They wouldn’t.

Myth 2: You won’t stand out if you use a cover letter template for Word

Put yourself in the hiring manager’s position. Would you rather read:

a) A poorly formatted cover letter made from scratch or,

b) A well-structure and professional looking cover letter?

Hint: the answer is b. A cover letter written using a well formatted, professional cover letter template, will always stand out more than a messy cover letter made from scratch.

A cover letter template is simply a framework that allows you to easily write the best cover letter possible. Once you’ve added your own skills, professional experiences, and unique wording, it’ll already stand out from any other cover letter as uniquely yours – and the hiring manager will see that too.

Myth 3: For such an important document, it feels lazy not to make a cover letter from scratch

Using a cover letter template is not lazy. It’s efficient and resourceful (two traits often looked for in job seekers).

Not to mention, using a template is proven to increase your chances of landing a job. Of course, you could delve into the mysteries of formatting your own cover letter, and after hours of frustration and headaches, develop a somewhat decent looking cover letter.

Or, you could download and use one of our free Google Docs cover letter templates or templates for Microsoft Word. It’s up to you.

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Modern cover letter templates

Take a fresh approach with our stylish, modern cover letter templates perfectly designed to give you the edge in innovative industries.

Reviewed by the community. Trusted by professionals

A modern cover letter template to make a strong impression.

From tech and IT to marketing and start-ups, there are dozens of jobs and industries where a standard cover letter just won’t cut it. That’s why we’ve created this collection of modern cover letter templates that exude confidence and style. 

To make the most out of your modern cover letter template, make sure to keep your writing concise and energetic. Strong action verbs and specific examples will work together with a bold template to ensure your cover letter stands out no matter how large the application pool. Check out this general guide for even more tips on writing a great cover letter.

In today’s job market, hiring managers are looking for candidates with fresh ideas who aren’t afraid to be themselves. By picking a modern cover letter template, you can rest assured that your visuals are just as bold as your personality and experience.

When to pick a modern job application letter template

There are a few key indicators that a modern job application letter template is the right choice. Does your potential employer value unique perspectives and originality? Are their offices filled with bold colors, sleek furniture and a general youthful vibe? These are good signs that a modern template will work well for this particular position or workplace. Even if you don’t have any inside knowledge of the company you’re applying to, you can use their website to get a feel for their branding and image to decide if a modern application letter template is right for you.

To get the most out of your modern job application letter template, make sure to match it with a modern resume template. You can browse our collection here .

A modern job application letter template can also work well for freelancers and entrepreneurs. These templates are all about achieving the balance between professionalism and personal style, which makes them some of the most versatile in our collection.

Top 5 why choose a modern cover letter for a resume

• Your industry or position requires a nontraditional approach
• You want your application to stand out in a big way
• You’re looking for a balance of professionalism and bold design
• You want to freshen up a previous cover letter
• You want to present yourself as a forward-thinking candidate

What makes a modern application letter

Although a modern template is a great starting point, you’ll need to embody the values of a modern application letter in both your visuals and your writing if you want to land a job in an innovative industry. Often, these positions are great for recent grads or early career professionals, but they can also lend themselves to candidates with years of expertise. The trick is to highlight how and why you’ve stayed at the forefront of your field, paying attention to new developments and trends.

Modern professionals know the best practices of traditional workplaces, but they’re not scared to change with the times. When writing a modern application letter, don’t be afraid to highlight moments when you thought outside the box or times when you created new initiatives and took a risk that led to positive results.

Free modern cover letter template – download as PDF or Word file

With Resume.io, you can pick a cover letter that’s stylish, professional and just right for your needs – but the best part? It’s free. Choose whether you’d like to download it as a PDF, Word file or even in Google Docs to make the most of your template in whichever platform you prefer.

The job search can be stressful. Our free modern cover letter template is designed to simplify the process and allow you to focus on showing off your best attributes without worrying about the visuals. With our free modern cover letter template you can rest assured you’re getting the perfect balance of attractive and functional design.

Try our professional Resume builder now!

Cover Letter Template

While a resume provides details to show you CAN do the work, a cover letter shows you WANT to do the work. Cover letters are used to introduce you to the prospective employer, highlight the most important details about you, and if well written, entice the reader to seriously review your resume. Continue reading below to learn how to write a cover letter, see examples of cover letters and to download a free cover letter template .

Resume Cover Letter Template

Other Versions

Description.

Looking for a change in employment? Use this free resume cover letter template to help you get started. Looking for help on Resumes? Check out our tips and templates for resumes .

Author : Brent Weight and Jon Wittwer

License : Limited Use

Cover Letter Objectives

Before writing a cover letter, make sure you have a clear understanding of the goals or objectives for the letter. These objectives include:

• Introduce yourself and your resume
• Explain your experience in more detail by providing pertinent stories or experiences
• Provide a sample of your written communication
• Hook the reader so they will want to read your resume

Personalize Your Cover Letter

Cover letters should be personalized as much as possible. Never send out the same cover letter twice. It may require you to do some research and to reach out to your network to make connections and introductions. Here are some things to include.

• Make sure you tailor your letter to a specific individual and greet them by name.
• If you don't have a name, then consider skipping the generic salutation.
• Try to include details specific to the company or the position.
• Provide a reference about how you heard about the job. This may include the date of the newspaper post or the online job reference number.
• If you have had prior contact with the recipient, remind them of it in the introduction.
• Be sure to mention any third parties that are recommending you or referring you for the position.
• Consider listing the job you are applying for in a subject line.

The main body of the cover letter should have appropriate content. Don't use it to simply recreate your resume. Pick 3 or 4 key traits, skills or attributes you really want to highlight and focus on those. Consider picking traits that may be most appropriate based on the job listing. Use experiences, stories and results to demonstrate your use or possession of the traits or attributes.

Make sure you end with a strong closing that is short and to the point. The time for details and stories has passed. Consider inviting them to read your resume and include a request for a response or an interview. You may decide to keep the ball in your court and simply inform them you will follow up with a phone call. And be considerate and thank them for their time.

Additional Cover Letter Writing Tips

• Use a formal business letter structure - You are writing a letter, not a memo or email. Use a formal business letter template .
• Avoid bad grammar and spelling. - Poorly written and edited letters can kill your chances before they even look at your resume. Consider hiring a professional to edit your cover letter.
• Don't sound desperate - Avoid sounding desperate by avoiding phrases such as "I really need this job" or "I hope you pick me".
• Use formatting wisely - Use formatting such as bullets, italics, bold and font changes to draw attention to key items and to increase readability.
• Avoid anything negative - Honesty about issues or special circumstances you face is important, but you don't have to mention it in your cover letter. Use interviews to provide these details.
• Keep it short - Your letter should highlight and demonstrate, not bore and wander. Keep to the main points and be succinct.
• Don't mess up in the delivery - Make sure your letter looks correct when printed. Consider using nicer paper for actual letters. When sending electronically, send it as a PDF since almost everyone has software to read a PDF file.
• Avoid uncommon language - Avoid terms that are specific to past employers and not used my most people. This would include acronyms and company jargon.

Use AI To Help Write a Resume Cover Letter

There are multiple generative AI tools that can help you come up with a draft for a letter. For example, using the Bing AI Chat or ChatGPT, you could use some of these prompts:

• Create a cover letter for this job posting. [Paste job listing here]
• Create a cover letter for a job as a tie fighter pilot in the empire.

BONUS! If you have a ChatGPT Plus account, check out our Letter Writing AI .

Sample Cover Letters

Sample cover letter for recent graduate.

Bill Stevenson 123 Anywhere Street Somewhereville, Best State 88889

Mr. Ryan Francom IT Manager XYZ Aviation Company 456 Somewhere Road Best Town, Best State 88888

Dear Mr. Francom,

In May, I will graduate from Tech University with a Master's of Science in Aeronautical Engineering. I am seeking to pursue my life long goal of becoming an aeronautical engineer for a world-class aviation company. Let me briefly highlight the skills, values and passion I will bring to XYZ Aviation Company.

• Lifelong passion for all things aeronautical including receiving my pilot's license at the age of 15.
• Solid understanding of aeronautical design processes and procedures gained at ABC Corp as a Level 1 engineer.
• Ability to work with others on interdisciplinary design teams in order to meet goals and complete projects on time.
• An aptitude for defining problems and identifying creative solutions while building consensus between all affected parties.
• A hardworking and self-directed work ethic with a dedication to detail.

An interview to further review your needs and my skills would be mutually beneficial. Next week I will contact you to schedule an interview. I look forward to talking to you soon.

Bill Stevenson

Example Cover Letter

Nancy Thompson 123 Anywhere Street Somewhereville, Best State 88889

Ms. Emily Smith HR Manager XYZ Company 456 Somewhere Road Best Town, Best State 88888

Dear Ms. Smith,

Bob Jones, your IT director, suggested that I contact you regarding the recently listed Sales Director position. I would love to be an integral part of your leadership team and contribute my proven management skills, efficiency and productivity to your corporate goals.

Highlights of my 20 year career include

• Over 10 years of experience managing direct sales staff with 20 years of marketing and sales experience.
• Creation and implementation of a direct sales program with annual sales reaching $50 million in less than 4 years.
• Deadlines met on time and in budget with a willingness to work with others to accomplish corporate tasks.
• Led the successful acquisition and merger of ACME Companies catalog sales division with ABC Companies sales division.

I am confident my qualifications will allow me to add significant value to your company as the Sales Director. I will call you directly to schedule an appropriate time for us to speak about the challenges and opportunities your company faces and how I can contribute to your company's future growth and success. Thank you in advance for your time.

Nancy Thompson

More Resume Cover Letter Templates

There are some sample cover letters in the Microsoft Office template gallery, under the category Letters . You can also find templates by opening Microsoft Word, going to File > New, and searching for "resume cover letter." Below are examples of some of the letters you can find this way:

• Resume Cover Letter to Use When Referred by a Colleague
• Cover Letter for an Entry-Level Resume
• Cover Letter in Response to Advertisement
• ... for a Temporary Position
• ... Announcing Your Job Search
• ... for a Functional Resume
• ... with Salary Requirements
• ... for Unsolicited Resume

Additional Resources

Below are some additional resources to help you write a great cover letter for your resume. They contain additional writing guidelines and tips.

• What is a Cover Letter? at purdue.edu - A down-and-dirty guide to writing cover letters.
• 6 Secrets to Writing a Great Cover Letter at forbes.com - Some extra tips
• Cover Letter Tips (PDF) at michigan.gov - Basic cover letter structure and tips with additional examples.
• Cover Letter Writing at northwestern.edu

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50 Microsoft Word Cover Letter Templates (Free Download!)

Welcome to our curated gallery of more than 50 free cover letter templates for Word. They’re all 100% free to download and edit. Each template was hand-picked by a career expert.

You just hit the jackpot.

We searched far and wide to find the best free Word cover letter templates on Earth.

We stacked them in five categories to help you find your favourite quick.

Bonus: we added hints and tips on flawless cover letter writing.

Plus—

Free means these cover letter templates are 100% free to download and edit.

You don’t even have to sign up for a spam list.

In this article you’ll find:

• Professional Cover Letter Templates for Word
• Modern Cover Letter Templates for Word
• Simple Cover Letter Templates for Word
• Creative Cover Letter Templates for Word
• Executive Cover Letter Templates for Word

Save hours of work and get a cover letter like this. Pick a template, fill it in. Quick and easy. Choose from 21 cover letter templates and download your cover letter now.

Create your cover letter now

What users say about ResumeLab:

I had an interview yesterday and the first thing they said on the phone was: “Wow! I love your cover letter.” Patrick I love the variety of templates. Good job guys, keep up the good work! Dylan My previous cover letter was really weak and I used to spend hours adjusting it in Word. Now, I can introduce any changes within minutes. Absolutely wonderful! George

Do you also need to write a CV? Here you can find several free MS Word Cv Templates .

1. Free Professional Cover Letter Templates for Word

Professional cover letter templates for Word are essential when you have to look your best.

The samples below are universal. They fit any job title or organisation.

These professional cover letter templates are recommended for:

• Accounting Cover Letter
• Administrative Assistant Cover Letter
• Consulting Cover Letter
• Internship Cover Letter
• IT Cover Letter
• Nurse Cover Letter
• Receptionist Cover Letter

Each of the links above will whisk you to a step-by-step guide. Click to see how to turn a cover letter template into a job-getting cover letter of your own.

Expert Hint: Writing a professional cover letter can be daunting. Luckily, we have a selection of cover letter writing guides for dozens of professions .

1. Blue Grey

The Blue Grey cover letter Word template is minimalist, with just a splash of blue. It includes a headshot, so they’ll remember it at interview time. Download it free here.

2. Clean B&W

This free cover letter template for Word adds a bold black info column around your all-important contact info. Download it free here.

3. Cosmopolitan Violet

This free cover letter template for Word has a bullet list for achievements, an eye-catching header, and a call-to-action paragraph. Download it free here.

Expert Hint: It can be tough to write a cover letter, even with free templates. Want to see how to write a cover letter in 10 minutes? See our cover letter writing guide .

4. Designer and Developer

This minimalist MS Word cover letter template gets your points across without a lot of distraction. The header spotlights your name and title. Download it free here.

5. Everest Orange

This cover letter template Word doc leads with a dark, sharp header, with hex icons for important contact info. Download it free here.

6. Mint Green

Want to keep it simple? To ditch the clutter, go with this cover letter template for Microsoft Word. Download it free here.

7. Penthouse Original

The Penthouse Original cover letter for Microsoft Word adds a professional flair to your application. It’s also universal enough for any kind of cover letter. Download it free here.

Expert Hint: All these letter templates are one-page only. Is that the right length? Your cover letter length should never be more than a single page, and usually half a page or less

>8. Premium Peach

Clean and spare, the Premium Peach Microsoft Office cover letter template keeps attention where it belongs—on your talents. Download it free here.

9. Professional Fresher

Blue highlights draw the eye in the Professional Fresher cover letter format for Word. The text section is short and to the point. Download it free here .

2. Free Modern Cover Letter Templates for Word

Modern office cover letters can’t just be stylish. They’ve got a job to do.

Consider—

The average CV gets 7 seconds of eye-time. That’s just enough to throw yours in the trash.

Your cover letter can stretch that time to 7 minutes—and get you in the interview.

That’s why our gallery of free cover letter templates for Word has been designed for easy reading.

These modern cover letter templates are recommended for:

• Cover Letter for Internship
• Marketing Cover Letter
• Project Manager Cover Letter
• Sales Cover Letter

Each guide listed above shows steps to turn a blank template into a job-getting cover letter.

Expert Hint: How can you format a cover letter? What about margins and fonts? What should you say in each paragraph? See our cover letter format guide .

1. Basic Modern

This modern free cover letter Word template reminds us of a geometric theorem. It’s eye-candy, sure, but it gets your points across fast too. Download it free here.

2. Blue Grey

Want to add a photo? Don’t put it on your CV. But—you can put one on your application with this free cover letter template for Word. Download it free here.

3. Bold Monogram

If you’re going for bold and beautiful, this spare, striking, free Microsoft Word cover letter template has you covered. Download it free here.

4. Corporate Purple

Looking for minimalist design, with all the right facts? Try this free cover letter Word template. Download it free here.

Expert Hint: Writing an entry-level cover letter ? You still need to show achievement. But you can get it from school or personal pursuits.

5. Dark and Light

Guaranteed to stand out in the pile, this modern free Microsoft cover letter template grabs the eye. Download it free here.

6. Majestic Original

Feeling cosmopolitan? This free cover letter for Word puts a big, bold cityscape in the header, just above your selling points. Download it free here.

7. Minimalist

Was this free cover letter template for Microsoft Word given the wrong name? Anything but minimalist, this one pops with shapes and colour. Download it free here.

Expert Hint: The perfect cover letter isn’t perfect without a great last paragraph. Not sure how? Knowing how to end a cover letter means writing a good call to action.

8. Modern Chronological

Looking to impress them with job-fitting accomplishments? Use this free cover letter format for Word. Download it free here.

9. Modern Initials

Make sure they remember you with this free Microsoft cover letter template. It comes with space for copious contact info, plus your big and bold initials at the top. Download it free here.

10. Stylish Teal

If teal’s your thing, this modern cover letter template for Word may be for you. Download it free here.

11. Visual Designer

This modern Microsoft cover letter puts all the right points between two classic grey bars. 

Expert Hint: Writer’s block? Most people get that. Don’t let it stop you. Knowing how to start a cover letter means finding your biggest selling point.

3. Free Simple Cover Letter Templates for Word

Why go with a simple cover letter template in Word?

If your job is all about simplicity, you’ll want an uncluttered letter.

The office cover letters below say, just the facts.

These simple cover letter templates are recommended for:

• Engineering Cover Letter
• Software Engineer Cover Letter

Each of the above guides will take you through the steps to turn your template into a job-magnet of a cover letter.

Expert Hint: Need to write a CV to go with your cover letter? See our CV writing guide . It’s got tips to ace every section of your CV.

Spare, with just a little colour, this free cover letter template Word doc includes bold headings to lead them through your message. Download it free here.

2. Classic Dark Blue

This classic free Word cover letter template puts your name in blue, then serves up your value proposition. Download it free here.

3. CV Cover Letter

Among the most basic free cover letter templates for Word we’ve found, this one adds a touch of bold to make your message pop. Download it free here.

4. Elegant Brick Red

This free Word cover letter template puts your name in red, then moves on to your lift speech. Download it free here.

Expert Hint: What should you put in a cover letter? It can’t be just a rehash of your CV. But it has to show your passion and a few startling accomplishments.

5. Manhattan Dark Blue

This spare and simple free cover letter template for Word has all the right paragraphs, with your name in blue up top. Download it free here.

6. Shades and Lines

This plain black and white free cover letter Word template is dressed-down to impress. It uses a respected layout while highlighting your contact info. Download it free here.

Here’s an attention-getting free Microsoft cover letter template with a blue-green bar bordering your message on the left. It’s built in the respected 3-paragraph layout. Download it free here.

8. Simple and Perfect

Another simple free cover letter template from Word, this one has all the right points, with a creative font to draw them to your name. Download it free here.

9. Simple Grey

Just black and white make this Microsoft Word cover letter template both simple and professional. Download it free here.

4. Free Creative Cover Letter Templates for Word

Want to show a little flair?

That can go over big for creative jobs or jobs in smaller companies.

Hiring managers read cover letters . If your chosen job needs creativity, one of these creative free cover letters for Word can show it.

Send your letter and CV directly to the hiring manager’s inbox if you can.

These creative cover letter templates are recommended for:

• Graphic Design Cover Letter
• Teacher Cover Letter

Each of the guides above will take you through the steps to turn a template into a job-getting cover letter.

Expert Hint: Wait—do you even need a cover letter ? Well, almost half of all employers will skip CVs that don’t have letters.

1. Blue Sky

Air out your skills with the blue sky cover letter template for Microsoft Word. It puts your contact info in a dark blue bar, then adds your photo on the right. Download it free here.

2. Blue Spheres

If straight lines aren’t your thing, consider the Blue Spheres cover letter format for Word. It puts your photo amid colourful accents that frame your message. Download it free here.

The Columns Microsoft cover letter template reads like a web-page wireframe. The boxes make it easy for the hiring manager to find everything she needs. Download it free here.

4. Contemporary

The purple sidebar in this cover letter for Microsoft Word lets you add a personal motto above your contact info. Your name and text fill the negative space to the right. Download it free here.

Expert Hint: The address on a cover letter matters. Plus, don’t say “Mrs.” or “Miss,” when “Ms.” will do. Plus, a simple, “Dear,” works fine, with the hiring manager’s name if you can find it.

5. Contemporary Photo

This wow-getting free Microsoft Office cover letter template uses geometry and colour to put key facts in the spotlight. The message is trim and clean, to keep them focused on your CV. Download it free here.

6. Creative

Creative and simple, this Microsoft cover letter packs in a short message with your vital contact info. The rest is left to easy-breathing white space. Download it free here.

Double your impact with a matching CV and cover letter combo. Use our cover letter builder and make your application documents pop out.

CREATE YOUR COVER LETTER NOW

Want to try a different look? There’s 18 more. A single click will give your document a total makeover. Pick a cover letter template here .

7. Crisp and Clean

Here’s a cover letter template for MS Word for free with a single yellow square to draw the eye. Your text floats in the white space below. Download it free here.

8. Green Cube

This creative free cover letter template for Word uses shades of green to show your selling points. Your name is the most prominent feature of this letter. Download it free here.

9. Headshot

If blue and orange are your favourite colours, try this free cover letter template Word doc. It leaves space for a short, punchy message in between its coloured accents. Download it free here.

Expert Hint: More applicants send email cover letters today. With email, short and sweet is the key rule. You don’t need to attach a PDF cover letter with an email letter.

10. Organic Shapes

Evocative of clouds and mountains, the shapes in this free Word cover letter template frame your headshot and contact info. Add bullets to show key skills. Download it free here.

This creative free Microsoft Word cover letter template features a headshot, a sidebar with contact info, and the classic 3-paragraph layout. Download it free here.

12. Pink Floral

The hiring team won’t misplace this free cover letter template for Word. Its natural theme stands out amid the pile of other letters on the manager’s desktop. Download it free here.

13. Rose Suite

If you like shades of rose, give this cover letter Word template a try. It stacks your first and last names, putting contact info in a block of white space beneath your headshot. Download it free here.

14. Sticky Note

Reminiscent of a Post-It note, this Microsoft cover letter template adds four bullet points to the classic 3-paragraph format. Download it free here.

5. Free Executive Cover Letter Templates for Word

C-Suite recruitment documents need one thing: professionalism.

They don’t need softness, quirks, or graphics.

That’s why the executive Microsoft cover letter templates below are all about the spare experience.

These executive cover letter templates are recommended for:

• C-Suite Cover Letter
• Executive Assistant Cover Letter

Each of the above guides will help you turn your chosen template into a living document. Just follow the simple steps.

1. Art Executive

The cover letter template for Microsoft Word above makes creative use of shape and colour. It keeps your text professional and clean. Download it free here.

Expert Hint: Put your contact information first. Put job keywords in your cover letter. Most of all, don’t be boring.

2. Clean Gold

The gold bar atop this cover letter template for Word pulls them to your name. The text below sets you up for success. Download it free here.

3. Colour Block

Looking for a little creativity in your Microsoft cover letter templates? The cross-matched colours in the header of this colour-block layout let your passion show. Download it free here.

4. Executive

Your name is clear in massive block text with a businesslike thin border in this cover letter for Microsoft Word. The bullets let you show your C-Suite chops. Download it free here.

5. Executive Blue

This executive cover letter for Word uses black and blue for a high-end feel. Your name stands out as the only red font on the page. Download it free here.

6. Executive Dark

This Microsoft Office cover letter template keeps it simple, with plain text and a creative shape above your name. Download it free here.

This corporate cover letter template for Word for free blazes with professionalism. It boasts simple shapes and a two-tone colour scheme. Download it free here.

8. Unique Orange

Here’s a spare executive cover letter template for Word with one small circle and the rest left businesslike. Download it free here.

With ResumeLab’s CV builder you’ll write your CV in a flash. Get specific content to boost your chances of getting the job. Add job descriptions, bullet points, and skills. Improve your CV in our CV builder now .

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Nail it all with a splash of colour, choose a clean font, highlight your skills in just a few clicks. You’re the perfect candidate and we’ll prove it. Just pick one of 18 CV templates and get started now .

Do you have questions about using these free Word cover letter templates? Did we miss a free Word cover letter template you love? We’re always glad to hear from you! Give us a shout in the comments below .

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At ResumeLab, excellence lies at the heart of our values, underpinning our promise to provide outstanding career resources. Our team of career experts meticulously assesses each article in line with our editorial guidelines , guaranteeing our content's high quality and dependability. We consistently engage in original research, illuminating the nuances of the job market and earning acclaim from various influential news outlets. Our commitment to delivering professional career advice draws millions of readers to our blog annually.

Having published over 200 career-advice articles, Tom Gerencer is a career expert who covers the whole array of job-seeking topics for people at all career stages, from interns to C-suite members. His insights, commentary, and articles reach over a million readers every month. With inside knowledge of key industry players and in-depth research, Tom helps job seekers with advice across all professions and career stages.

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A CV is just another sheet of paper without a cover letter to show your human side. Use these 3 generic cover letter samples to write your own non-general cover letter fast.

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Cover Letter Templates Professional Cover Letter Templates

Professional Cover Letter Templates

Need a stylish and formal cover letter? Our professional cover letter templates will help you make a great first impression. Download free for Microsoft Word or Google Docs, or check out our other cover letter templates for something different.

The Current Cover Letter Template

Why it’s called the “current”.

With a modern geometric design and contemporary style, the “Current” cover letter template tells employers that you’re on the cutting edge of your industry and ready to take on new challenges.

Who Should Use It?

The “Current” template is well-suited to candidates entering technical fields such as engineering or IT, but can be used by any job seekers looking to bring a fresh and modern approach to their application.

Format and Style

Major Features

• Aesthetic header featuring stylized cubes
• Diagonal design elements that highlight a candidate’s title and contact information
• Top – 2.54 cm
• Bottom – 1 cm
• Left – 1.9 cm
• Right – 1.9 cm

Text Details

• Name/Header Font: Josefin Sans
• Content Font: Raleway
• Name Font Size: 35pt
• Body Font Size: 10pt

How to download this template

Cover Letter Builder

Use our software and create a cover letter with a premade template. Let the Genius cover letter generator help you make your cover letter in minutes.

The Minimalist Cover Letter Template

Why it’s called the “minimalist”.

As the name suggests, the Minimalist cover letter features a simple design aesthetic that doesn’t distract from its content. At the same time, a bit of color is added to allow you to express your individuality—do you suit an ambitious red or an industrious blue?

The Minimalist’s uncomplicated layout and design make it suitable for a myriad of roles. Its simplicity also makes it easy to format to your needs.

Use this design if you value clarity and effectiveness. If you don’t have Microsoft Word, you can find similar cover letter templates for google docs .

• Colored name header and contact icons
• Name/Header Font: Raleway
• Content Font: Calibri
• Body Font Size: 11.5pt

The Everest Cover Letter Template

Why it’s called the “everest”.

The Everest’s dominating dark-and-light color scheme will allow you to tower over your competition. It exudes an earthiness that reflects your dependability, a soft skill that hiring managers consistently prioritize.

The Everest is perfect for confident, ambitious job seekers. It also suits those who want to advertise their stable and resilient nature.

Use the Everest if you are a rock-solid candidate.

• Colored name header, contact icons, and horizontal lines
• Left – 2.54 cm
• Right – 2.54 cm
• Name/Header Font: Montserrat
• Content Font: Proza Libre Light
• Name Font Size: 28pt

Examples of this template in action

• Clerical Cover Letter
• Sales Manager Cover Letter
• School Counselor Cover Letter
• Dental Assistant Cover Letter
• Musician Cover Letter

The Cosmopolitan Cover Letter Template

Why it’s called the “cosmopolitan”.

The Cosmopolitan uses a diverse range of bright, eye-catching colors that echo the variety found in the modern world.

This template is perfect for those who are proud of their background, crave a career that matches their personality, and aspire to contribute to their new role in their own way.

• White spaces contained between vibrant blocks of color.
• Body Font Size:11.5pt
• Preschool Teacher Cover Letter
• High School Student Cover Letter
• Executive Assistant Cover Letter
• Marketing Assistant Cover Letter
• Electrician Cover Letter
• Graphic Design Cover Letter

Need more inspiration? Head over to our full collection of cover letter examples .

The Premium Cover Letter Template

Why it’s called the “premium”.

The Premium is our most sophisticated cover letter template yet. It hints at a high level of luxury, albeit one that the average person can aspire to.

Use the Premium template if you don’t count yourself among the  hoi polloi  of job seekers: the Premium template suggests that you are a top-tier candidate.

• Colored contact header, and the applicant’s name encased in an elegant box.
• Name/Header Font: Proza Libre Medium
• Name Font Size: 32pt
• Grocery Store Cashier Cover Letter
• Substitute Teacher Cover Letter
• Dental Hygienist Cover Letter
• Marketing Manager Cover Letter
• Retail Sales Associate Cover Letter
• Bartender Cover Letter
• Copywriter Cover Letter
• Office Assistant Cover Letter

The Executive Cover Letter Template

Why it’s called the “executive”.

Bold and eye-catching, the Executive cover letter is the perfect blend of refined style and professionalism. It immediately communicates to employers that you’re reliable, confident, and ready to lead.

Use the Executive cover letter is the ideal template for taking the next step in your career or applying to a managerial role.

• Colored contact header, and the applicant’s name underlined by an elegant box.
• Name/Header Font: Roboto Slab
• Content Font: Roboto Slab
• Body Font Size:10pt

The Original Professional Cover Letter Template

Why it’s called the “original professional”.

Timeless and formal, our Original Professional cover letter template is a modern update of the style of templates used by job seekers for decades. It features everything you need to make a strong first impression and communicate your qualifications without the distracting design elements featured in more contemporary cover letter templates.

The Original Professional template is perfect for anyone who wants to give their job application a buttoned-up, classic look. This makes it particularly well-suited for job-seekers in the field of law or finance.

• Bold, colored header and simple design.
• Name/Header Font: Lora
• Content Font: Lora
• Name Font Size: 22pt
• Body Font Size:11pt

The Pantheon Cover Letter Template

Why it’s called the “pantheon”.

Featuring bold, dark lines and a strong header, the “Pantheon” cover letter template is inspired by the long, horizontal design of ancient Greek architecture.

The Pantheon template’s black header helps draw attention to your name, while the space-efficient design gives you plenty of room to elaborate on your experience. This makes the Pantheon template perfect for candidates with a lot of information to go over in their cover letter.

• A dark header and bold colors help your name and contact information stand out
• Name/Header Font: Roboto
• Content Font: Roboto
• Name Font Size: 24pt

The Taj Mahal Cover Letter Template

Why it’s called the “taj mahal”.

Featuring a bold gray header block and elegant colors for your name and contact information, the Taj Mahal cover letter template’s design was inspired by the impressive minarets of the world-famous monument it takes its name from.

The Taj Mahal template is confident and professional but uses color to add a splash of personality. This makes it a great choice for people who are applying for work in more formal settings but want to make a lasting impression.

• A gray header and colorful text helps emphasize your name
• Body Font Size:12pt

The Standard Cover Letter Template

Why it’s called the “standard”.

Designed to bridge the gap between traditional and modern styles, this template represents a new standard in cover letter design. With a bold header and sleek resume to match, this template is sure to elevate your application.

The “Standard” cover letter is perfect for job applicants in semi-formal industries, where a modern twist on a traditional cover letter is a great way to stand out from the crowd.

• Bold full-color header
• Content Font: PT Sans
• Body Font Size: 11pt

Related Articles

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Free Cover Letter Templates for Microsoft Word

• Microsoft Word Cover Letter Templates
• Access Letters From Your Computer

Access Templates Online

• Create a Customized Cover Letter

Tips for Writing an Interview-Winning Cover Letter

• More Free Templates

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A good cover letter can mean the difference between catching the hiring manager’s attention and languishing in job search limbo. But many job seekers find it hard to stare down that blank page. How do you summarize your most important qualifications in a way that makes it clear that you’re the best candidate for the job? Cover letter templates can help.

A cover letter template provides a "fill-in the-blank" format. You can use it to create your own letter to send with your resume when you apply for a job.

Using a template saves you a few steps and helps you structure your letter in a professional way.

Free Microsoft cover letter templates are available online from Microsoft Office Online, as a download for Microsoft Word users, or are available within your Word program.

Note that not all templates may work with all versions of Word, so check before you download. There will be a message next to the download button advising if there are restrictions.

Not a Microsoft user? Google Docs also has  free template samples  available for letters and resumes. Using any of these templates can help you to feel confident that you are properly writing and  formatting your cover letter .

Free Microsoft Word Cover Letter Templates

There are a variety of templates available for Microsoft Word. Template options include  general cover letters  and both job- and career-specific cover letter samples. For example, there are cover letter templates for professionals, temporary workers, and candidates who are sending in their resumes unsolicited.

Microsoft Word also offers a variety of different cover letter template designs, with resume templates to match. Note that if you choose one of these fancier template designs, you’ll want to choose a resume template to match.

Be consistent in your application materials, whether it’s matching your cover letter to your resume or choosing a font or format. That way, hiring managers can focus on your work experience—not your stylistic choices.

Access Cover Letters From Your Computer

Open Microsoft Word, then click on:

Then, search for online templates by typing your keywords (e.g., “cover letter”) in the field provided. You can also click on the "Resumes and Cover Letters" category to get more options. Review the available options and choose the design you like best.

If you don’t own a copy of Microsoft Office or a subscription to Microsoft 365, you can still access  cover letter templates . These templates are free and editable online.

Visit the  Microsoft Cover Letter Templates  website, browse the cover letter templates, then click on the title to preview the sample. You'll need to sign up for a free account to edit the document.

Once you find a template you like, click Edit In Browser, then follow the instructions to customize and save your cover letter. There are also sets, which include matching resumes and cover letters, available to use.

Use the Template to Create a Customized Cover Letter

Once you have downloaded or opened  a cover letter template file , type over the text in the file to create your own  personalized cover letter .

The template will include all the relevant information that you need to include in your document. Simply change the generic version to include your personal and professional information.

It's a good idea to include additional details about your qualifications and experience. Take the time to  match your qualifications to the job description . Include  keywords related to your skills and achievements.

To  customize your cover letter  further, look for a contact person at the company, ideally the hiring manager or HR contact, and address the letter to this person. If you have an employee contact at the company who is willing to refer you, be sure to mention them in the first paragraph of your cover letter. Employee referrals carry a lot of weight with hiring managers.

Double-check to make sure there is none of the template information left in your final saved version. Finally, carefully proofread for grammar and typographical errors before saving and sending your cover letter.

To avoid sending a blank template or the wrong version of your cover letter,  choose a file name  that’s easy to remember. It should always include your name and may also contain the name of the position for which you’re applying. 

Avoid version numbers and cutesy nicknames when choosing a file name for your resume.

• Send one.  Even when an employer does not directly ask for one, be sure  always to send a cover letter . The only time you don’t want to send one is when the job listing says not to.
• Review examples . Review cover letter examples and tips for how to write a cover letter , so yours makes the best impression.
• Customize each letter.  It might seem tedious, be it is important to  customize each cover letter  to fit the specific job you are applying for. It will make your letter stand out.
• Highlight relevant qualifications.  In your cover letter, address one or two skills or qualifications that you have that match the job description. Provide a specific example of a time you demonstrated each of these qualifications. These examples will make your cover letter different from your resume, which is important.
• Explain any potential issues.  You can use your cover letter to go into detail about something in your resume that needs explaining. For example, a cover letter is a good place to talk about a  career shift  or  explain an extended gap in employment .
• Carefully edit your letter.  Be sure to edit each cover letter before sending it thoroughly. Consider asking a friend or family member, or a  career counselor , to read over your cover letter.

More Templates for Resumes and Letters

Microsoft letter templates are available as a free download for Microsoft Word users or are available within your Word program, to use to create a variety of letters. There are letter templates for cover letters,  resignation letters ,  reference letters , thank you letters, interview letters, and a variety of business letters.

Additionally,  Microsoft resume templates  are available as a free download for Microsoft Word users to use to create a resume. Microsoft Word resume options include basic resumes, job-specific resumes, and career-specific resumes.

60+ Cover Letter Examples in 2024 [For All Professions]

No matter where you are in your career, or what job you’re applying for, submitting a cover letter with your resume is a must . 

Done right, a cover letter will effectively complement your resume and explain to the hiring manager in more detail why you’re the right person for the job.

Writing a cover letter, however, is easier said than done. 

You have to effectively demonstrate that you’ll be able to perform the responsibilities listed in the job description and that you’d be a better fit for the company compared to other candidates. 

And unless you’re a professional writer, this can be a very hard task.

Fortunately, we created these cover letter examples to inspire you and help you get started with your own cover letter!

Let’s dive in!

21 Cover Letter Examples 

#1. career change cover letter example .

Here’s what this cover letter does right:

• Has an ideal length. This cover letter includes all the relevant information for the hiring manager without getting into too much detail.
• Relevant introduction. The candidate explains that they’re changing careers and why they want to work in this new field from the get-go.
• Explains their related experience. The candidate explains how their previous experience in retail sales can help them succeed in PR.

Check out our guide video guide to learn how to write a Cover Letter that gets you HIRED!

#2. Recent Graduate Cover Letter Example 

• Personally greets the hiring manager. The candidate has taken the time to find the hiring manager’s name and address them by it, which makes the opening of the cover letter much more personal.
• Wraps up with a call to action. The candidate wraps up the cover letter by suggesting a meeting with the hiring manager, which makes them more memorable.
• Explains why the candidate is the right person for the internship. In this cover letter for an internship , the candidate explains how they’ve previously interned in a different firm, which gives them the experience to succeed in this role.

Have you just graduated from college? Make sure to check out our guide on writing an entry-level cover letter from start to finish! 

#3. Middle Management Cover Letter Example

• Use of bullet points. The candidate presents the information in a concise and reader-friendly way, making it easy for the hiring manager to find their key achievements. 
• Formal closing. The candidate has used a formal and polite tone to conclude their cover letter, which combined with a call to action makes them look professional and passionate about getting the job. 
• Explains how the company would benefit from hiring them. The candidate outlines exactly what they could do for the company, which not only highlights their skills but also shows they’ve done their research on the company’s needs. 

#4. Business Manager Cover Letter Example

• Detailed header. In addition to the must-have contact details, this candidate has also included their professional Twitter and LinkedIn profiles, making it easy for the hiring manager to look more closely into their career. 
• Concise and to the point. This candidate has used short paragraphs and bullet points to make the cover letter easy to skim through. 
• Wraps up with a call to action. By letting the hiring manager know they’ll be contacting them soon, they’re more likely to make an impression.

Check out this article for a complete writing guide and an inspiring business manager resume sample. 

#5. Ph.D. Cover Letter Example

Here’s what this cover letter does right: 

• Attention-grabbing introduction. In the opening paragraph, this candidate explains why they’re passionate about pursuing a Ph.D. in great detail. 
• Explains the candidate’s qualifications in detail. The candidate builds on their passion by explaining how they’re also qualified for the degree because of their education history and academic achievements. 

#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

• Professional and minimalistic template. This senior executive has used a professional but minimalistic template that lets their work experience do the talking. 
• Achievement-oriented opening paragraph. Right from the get-go, this candidate explains what makes them so good at their job, effectively grabbing the hiring manager’s attention.  
• Wraps up with a call to action. By suggesting to have a meeting and discussing how they can help the company meet its goals, the candidate stands more chance to make a positive lasting impression. 

#7. Architect Cover Letter Example 

• Modern resume template. This architect has picked a template that perfectly matches his industry, as it is professional and modern at the same time. 
• A personal greeting to the HR. They address the hiring manager by their first name, which helps make a better first impression. 
• Measurable achievements. By quantifying their achievements, the candidate proves their achievements instead of just claiming them.

Struggling with your architect resume ? Check out our full guide!

#8. Business Analyst Cover Letter Example 

• Detailed contact information. The candidate has listed both their LinkedIn and Twitter profiles, providing the HR manager an opportunity to learn more about the candidate.  
• Mentions what the candidate can do for the company. This cover letter doesn’t just explain why the job would be great for the candidate, but also how the candidate would benefit the company. Win-win, right? 
• Error-free and reader-friendly. It’s super important for the cover letter to have no spelling or grammatical errors and be reader-friendly. This candidate made sure they did both.

Need a resume alongside your cover letter? Check out our guide on how to write a business analyst resume . 

#9. Consultant Cover Letter Example 

• Professional cover letter template. Being an experienced consultant, this candidate has picked a professional template that doesn’t steal the spotlight from their achievements. 
• Experience and achievement-oriented. The candidate has effectively elaborated on their top achievements relevant to the job. 
• Highlights the candidate’s passion. To show they want the job, this candidate has also explained how passionate they are about their profession.

For more advice on landing a job as a consultant, check out our guide to writing a consultant resume .

#10. Digital Marketing Cover Letter Example

• Creative cover letter template. This digital marketer highlights their originality by picking a creative cover letter template. 
• Lists the candidate’s awards. The candidate has taken advantage of the cover letter to list their most noteworthy awards in the industry. 
• Concludes with a call to action. As they used a call to action to conclude their cover letter, the HR manager will be more likely to remember them.

Want to take your digital marketing resume to the next level? Check out our guide!

#11. Graphic Designer Cover Letter Example 

• Detailed contact information. The candidate has included additional contact information such as their website link, as well as their LinkedIn and Twitter profiles.  
• Ideal length. This cover letter is concise, which means that the HR manager is more likely to read it from start to finish.  
• Draws attention to the candidate’s strong points. Although this candidate is a recent college graduate, they’ve managed to effectively show that they have enough knowledge and experience to do the job right.

Read this guide to write a graphic designer resume that’s just as good as your cover letter!

#12. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Example

• Minimalistic cover letter template. The candidate picked a well-designed but minimalistic template for their cover letter. 
• Focused on skills and achievements. This cover letter is packed with the candidate’s skills and achievements, proving he can be an excellent employee. 
• Formal closing. Politeness can go a long way and the candidate has used this to their advantage to make an impression. 

Our article on how to write an administrative assistant resume can help you take your job application to the next level.

#13. Front Desk Cover Letter Example

• Modern cover letter template. This template incorporates memorable colors and clear lines, which make the cover letter very visually appealing. 
• Attention-grabbing introduction. Using an attention-grabbing intro, the candidate is more likely to make an impression. 
• Calls the HR to action. By including a call to action, the candidate is reminding the HR of their immediate availability. 

#14. Human Resources Cover Letter Example

• It is concise and to the point. The candidate doesn’t dwell on unimportant details the HR won’t be interested in. 
• Uses a traditional cover letter template. The cover letter design is more on the conventional side, which fits the industry better. 
• Highlights the candidate’s strong points. The candidate has rich work experience and they use the cover letter to elaborate on it. 

This HR resume guide can help you get your resume just right.

#15. Sales Agent Cover Letter Example 

• Attention-grabbing cover letter template. As a salesperson, this candidate knows how important first impressions are, so they’ve picked a catchy cover letter template. 
• Has an ideal length. At the same time, they’ve also made sure to keep their cover letter at just the right length. 
• Lists the candidate’s career highlights. The candidate has made perfect use of the space by mentioning their most impressive professional achievements. 

Check out this sales agent resume guide to create an attention-grabbing sales resume .

#16. Receptionist Cover Letter Example

• Modern but minimalistic cover letter template. The template’s design hints the candidate is creative but professional at the same time. 
• Uses a catchy introduction. The candidate has used an attention-grabbing opening paragraph to catch HR’s attention. 
• Concludes the cover letter formally. The candidate proves that they’re polite and well-spoken, a quality very much important for the role they’re applying for. 

Take your receptionist resume to the next level with this receptionist resume guide .

#17. Information Technology Cover Letter Example

• Mentions measurable achievements. Numbers make an impact, which is why this candidate has included measurable achievements. 
• Lists both soft and hard skills. The candidate has mentioned a great mix of soft and hard skills, showing how well-rounded they are. 
• Contains relevant contact information. The candidate’s GitHub, website name, LinkedIn, and Twitter profiles are all great additions to the resume. 

Looking for tips to help you write a great IT resume ? Check out our guide!

#18. Real Estate Cover Letter Example

• Ideal length. Short and to the point, this cover letter is bound to get noticed by the HR manager. 
• Wraps up with a call to action. This candidate reinforces the HR to call them back through a final call to action. 
• Mentions the right skills. On top of their sales accomplishments, the candidate touch upon important soft skills such as customer service and communication . 

This real estate resume guide will help you take your resume from good to great.

#19. Teacher Cover Letter Example

• Mentions relevant contact information details. This candidate has included optional (but relevant) contact information details, such as their LinkedIn, Quora, and Medium profiles. 
• Achievement-oriented. The candidate has elaborated on their achievements in more detail throughout their cover letter. 
• Highlights the candidate’s passion. For some jobs, being passionate is much more important than for others. Teaching is one of these jobs, which is why this candidate explains their passion for the job. 

Our guide on how to write a teacher resume has all the tips you need to land the job.

#20. Project Manager Cover Letter Example

• Leverages a catchy introduction. Through a catchy introductory paragraph, this candidate is sure to grab the HR’s attention and get them to read the rest of their cover letter.
• Lists measurable accomplishments. This candidate explains exactly what they’ve achieved using numbers and hard data. 
• Personally greets the HR. A personal greeting sounds much better than “Dear Sir/Madam,” and the candidate knows this. 

This guide on how to write a project manager resume can help you perfect your appication.

#21. Paralegal Cover Letter Example

• Minimalistic cover letter template. This cover letter design looks good but doesn’t steal the show from the candidate’s abilities.
• Mentions the candidate’s academic achievements and extracurricular activities. Although the candidate is a recent graduate, they’ve used the cover letter to explain they have enough skills and achievements to do the job.
• Lists measurable achievements. The candidate proves they did well in their internship by mentioning quantifiable achievements.

Check out this paralegal resume guide to perfect yours.

40+ More Cover Letter Examples and Guides 

Couldn’t find a cover letter example for your field? Do not worry.

Below you can find a number of other cover letter examples for different fields and industries:

• Acting Cover Letter Examples
• Accounting Cover Letter Examples
• Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Architecture Cover Letter Examples
• Attorney Cover Letter Examples
• Barista Cover Letter Examples
• Bartender Cover Letter Examples
• Business Cover Letter Examples
• Business Analyst Cover Letter Examples
• College Student Cover Letter Examples
• Computer Science Cover Letter Examples
• Construction Cover Letter Examples
• Consultant Cover Letter Examples
• Customer Service Cover Letter Examples
• Data Analyst Cover Letter Examples
• Data Entry Cover Letter Examples
• Dental Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Digital Marketing Cover Letter Examples
• Elementary Teacher Cover Letter Examples
• Engineering Cover Letter Examples
• Executive Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Finance Cover Letter Examples
• Graphic Design Cover Letter Examples
• Healthcare Cover Letter Examples
• Human Resources Cover Letter Examples
• IT Cover Letter Examples
• Law Cover Letter Examples
• Management Cover Letter Examples
• Marketing Cover Letter Examples
• Mechanical Engineering Cover Letter Examples
• Medical Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Nurse Practitioner Cover Letter Examples
• Physician Cover Letter Examples
• Project Manager Cover Letter Examples
• Receptionist Cover Letter Examples
• Retail Cover Letter Examples
• Sales Cover Letter Examples
• Social Work Cover Letter Examples
• Software Engineer Cover Letter Examples
• Substitute Teacher Cover Letter Examples
• Teacher Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Team Leader Cover Letter Example

What is a Cover Letter? 

A cover letter is a one-page document that you submit as part of your job application, alongside your resume . 

Its purpose is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background. On average, your cover letter should be from 250 to 400 words long .

A good cover letter can give the hiring manager more insight into what makes you a good candidate and help them make up their mind about whether they should invite you for an interview. A bad cover letter, though, will get ignored (at best) and lose you the job (at worst).

So, to make sure this doesn’t happen, it’s essential to know how to write a convincing cover letter.

The first thing to remember is that a cover letter is a supplement to your resume, not a replacement. Meaning, you shouldn’t just repeat whatever is mentioned in your resume and call it a day. 

Optimally, you should use your cover letter to shed more light on your skills and qualifications, as well as explain anything you didn’t have space for in your resume (e.g. a career gap or why you’re changing careers).

If you’re writing a cover letter for the first time, though, putting all this together might seem pretty tough. 

Fortunately, you can follow our tried-and-tested format to make the experience much easier:

• Header - Input your contact information.
• Greeting the hiring manager - Open the cover letter with a “Dear Sir or Madam,” or use the hiring manager’s name if you know what that is.
• Opening paragraph - Grab the hiring manager’s attention by getting straight to the point. Mention what your professional experiences are, and what role you’re applying for.
• The second paragraph - Explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the job. Mention your top 2-3 achievements, your top skills, why you want to work in that specific industry, and whatever else is relevant.
• The third paragraph - End your cover letter with a call to action. E.g. “I would love to meet personally and discuss how I can help Company X.”
• Formal closing - Something like this: “Thank you for your consideration. Best, John Doe.”

Here’s what this looks like in practice:

9 Tips to Write a Cover Letter (the Right Way)

Now that we've covered the basics, let's talk about cover letter tips . Below, we'll give you all the knowledge you need to take your cover letter from "OK" to "great."

#1. Pick the right template

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

And what’s a better way to leave a good impression than through a professional, well-formatted, and visual template?

You can simply pick one of our tried-and-tested cover letter templates and you’ll be all set!

#2. Add your contact details on the header

The best way to start your cover letter is through a header. 

Here’s what you want to include there:

• Phone Number
• Name of the hiring manager / their professional title
• Name of the company you’re applying to

Optionally, you can also include the following:

• Social Media Profiles - Any type of profile that’s relevant to your field. Social Profiles on websites like LinkedIn, GitHub (for developers), Medium (for writers), etc.
• Personal Website - If you have a personal website that somehow adds value to your application, you can mention it. Let’s say you’re a professional writer. In that case, you’d want to link to your content portfolio site or blog.

#3. Greet the hiring manager the right way

Once you’ve listed all your relevant contact information, it’s time to address the hiring manager reading your cover letter. 

A good practice here is to find the hiring manager’s name and address them directly instead of using the traditional “dear sir or madam.” This shows that you’re really invested in the company and that you took your time to do some research about the job.

So, how can you find out the hiring manager’s name?

One way to do this is by looking up the head of the company’s relevant department on LinkedIn. Let’s say you’re applying for the position of Communication Specialist at Novoresume. The hiring manager is probably the Head of Communications or the Chief Communications Office.

Or let’s say you’re applying for the position of server at a restaurant. In that case, you’d be looking to find out who the restaurant manager is.

If this doesn’t work, you can also check out the “Team” page on the company website; there’s a good chance you’ll at least find the right person there.

If you still can’t find out the hiring manager’s name, here are several other greetings you can use:

• Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
• Dear Hiring Manager
• To whom it may concern
• Dear [Department] Team

#4. Create an attention-grabbing introduction

Recruiters 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 problem with most cover letter opening paragraphs, though, is that they’re usually extremely generic, often looking something like this: 

Hey, 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.

As you can probably tell, this opening paragraph doesn’t tell the hiring manager anything other than that you’ve worked the job before - and that’s not really helpful in setting you apart from other candidates. 

What you want to do, instead, is start off with 2-3 of your top achievements to really grab the reader’s attention. Preferably, the achievements should be as relevant as possible to the position. 

For example:

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 with Company X, a fin-tech company, for 3+ years. As a Sales Representative, I generated an average of $30,000+ in sales per month (beating the KPIs by around 40%). I believe that my previous industry experience, as well as my excellence in sales, makes me the right candidate for the role of X at Company Y.

The second example shows how the candidate is a top performer. The first just shows that they’ve worked a sales job before.

Which one are YOU more likely to invite for an interview?

#5. Show you’re the perfect person for the job

One great thing about cover letters is that they allow you to expand more on the top achievements from your resume and really show the hiring manager that you’re the right person for the job. 

A good way to do that is to first read the job ad and really understand what skills/experiences are required, and then to ensure that your cover letter touches upon the said skills or experiences.

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 $20,000+. As the sole digital marketer at the company, I managed the ad creation and management process end-to-end. This means I created the ad copy and images, as well as 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

#6. Explain why you’re a great company fit

The HR manager doesn’t only look at whether you’ll be good at the job or not. They’re looking for someone that’s also a good fit for the company culture.

After all, employees that don’t fit in are bound to quit, sooner or later. This ends up costing the company a ton of money, up to 50% of the employee’s annual salary . 

To convince the hiring manager that you’re a great company fit, do some research on the company and find out what it is you like about them, or about working there. 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 culture like? Will someone micro-manage your work, or will you have autonomy on how you get things done?

Then, turn your top reasons for liking to work there into text and add them to your cover letter! 

#7. Wrap up with a call to action

To make the end of your cover letter as memorable as possible, you want to:

• Wrap up any points you couldn't in the previous paragraphs. Mention anything you’ve left out that you think could help the hiring manager make up your mind.
• Thank the hiring manager for their time. After all, it never hurts to be polite. 
• Finish the cover letter with a call to action. A call to action is a great way to make your cover letter ending as memorable as possible. 

#8. Write a formal closing

Once you’re done with the final paragraph, all you have to do is write down a formal “goodbye” and you’re good to go.

Feel free to use one of the most popular conclusions in a cover letter:

• Best Regards,
• Kind Regards,

#9. Proofread your cover letter

Last but not least, make sure to always proofread each and every document that you’ll be including in your job application - cover letter included. 

The last thing you want is to be claiming you’re a great candidate for the job with a cover letter full of typos! 

For an even more comprehensive guide on how to write an impactful cover letter , check out our article ! 

Cover Letter Writing Checklist 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you still have some questions about cover letters? Check out the answers below:

1. How do I write a simple cover letter? 

To write a cover letter that’s simple but also professional, make sure to include a header with your personal information, a formal greeting to the hiring manager, an attention-grabbing opening paragraph, a second paragraph explaining why you’re a good candidate for the job, and a formal closing (preferably with a call to action). 

2. What are the 3 parts of a cover letter? 

The three parts of a cover letter are: 

• The introduction , namely the header, the greeting to the hiring manager, and the opening paragraph. 
• The sales pitch is usually the body of the cover letter. 
• The conclusion involves a formal closing and a signature line.

3. What makes a great cover letter?

A great cover letter should be personalized for each job you’re applying for, instead of being overly generic. It’s also preferable to address the hiring manager by their name and not use the overly-used “Dear Sir/Madam.”

To make a great first impression, you should mention 1-2 of your top achievements in your opening paragraph - the more job-specific they are, the better. Also, don’t stop at showing the hiring manager why you’re a great candidate for the job. Make sure to also talk about how you’re a good culture fit for the company.

Last but not least, wrap up your closing paragraph with a call to action to give the hiring manager a little extra something to remember you by. 

4. When is a cover letter necessary?

Unless the job ad specifically states otherwise, you should always include a cover letter with your job application .

Even if the hiring manager doesn’t read it, you will look more professional simply by including one.

And that’s a wrap! We hope our cover letter examples and writing tips will inspire you to write a cover letter that will land you your next job.

If you’re looking for more invaluable career advice and articles, make sure to check out our career blog , or any of these related articles: 

• How to Write a Resume
• Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid at All Costs
• Cover Letter Format (w/ Examples & Free Templates)

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