how long should a cover letter be uk

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• Careers advice
• Cover letters

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How to write a cover letter.

A cover letter introduces you to an employer and asks them to think about your application. 

It’s a short letter, usually 3 to 5 paragraphs long.

When to include a cover letter

You should always include a cover letter when you apply for a job using a CV. 

You can write it as an email if you’re applying online or print a copy to go with a paper application.

When writing a cover letter, let the employer know you’re keen by showing that you’ve researched the company. Learn more about what they do through:

• their website
• recent news articles
• talking to people you know who work there

Send it to the right person

It's important to try to address your cover letter to someone by name. Check you have the details of the person you need to send it to. 

You'll need their name and preferred title. For example, ‘Dr’, ‘Mr’, ‘Mrs’, ‘Ms’, and their job title. You should also make sure you have the right company name and address, including postcode.

If you do not know their name

If the job advert does not include a name you can check the company website. Try to find details of the head of the department, head of human resources or a recruitment manager.

If you still cannot find a name, you can start your letter with ‘Dear Sir or Madam’.

Introduction

Introduce yourself and explain how you found the advertised job. You can mention the job title, and reference number if there is one. 

If you’re asking about any job openings and not applying to a vacancy, tell them what sort of job you’re looking for. Let the employer see how keen you are to work for them.

Show you're right for the job

Highlight the skills and experience you have that match what the employer is looking for. 

Convince them that you're enthusiastic about working for them. Let them know you share their work values, culture and style.

Give extra information

If you have gaps in your employment history, you could talk about the skills you gained while you were out of work.

If you’ve mentioned on your CV that you have a disability, you might want to talk more about this in your cover letter. Organisations like Disability UK can give you advice on how to do this. You do not have to mention your disability at this stage if you prefer not to.

You can get more help with specialist advice on finding work if you have a disability.

Ending your cover letter

Thank the employer for considering your application. Let them know that they can get more details from your CV, and tell them you're looking forward to hearing from them.

Let them know how they can best contact you. Make sure your contact details are correct on both your cover letter and CV.

Yours sincerely or yours faithfully

If you know the name of the person you’re writing to, you should end the letter with ‘Yours sincerely’.

If you’ve addressed the letter ‘Dear Sir or Madam’, you should end the letter with ‘Yours faithfully’.

Tips for writing a cover letter

When writing your cover letter, remember to:

• write a new one for every job you apply for and make sure it’s tailored to the company and the specific role
• use the same font and size as you do for your CV, so it looks consistent
• make sure the company name and recruiter’s details are correct
• use the right language and tone: keep it professional and match the keywords used by the employer in their job advert
• show you’ve done your research into the job and the company
• highlight your most relevant skills and experience to stand out from other applicants
• back up any statements you make with facts and use the STAR method
• double check spelling and grammar before you send it
• keep a copy of your cover letter as they may ask you about it in an interview

Related content

How to write a CV

Completing application forms

Interview tips

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Cover letters

It's important to get your cover letter right. It's your one opportunity to sell your skills and experience to potential employers. Find out how to write and format a cover letter and take ideas and inspiration from our cover letter templates

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is a document sent alongside your CV when applying for jobs. It acts as a personal introduction and helps to sell your application.

Cover letters are necessary as they give you the chance to explain to an employer why you're the best candidate for the job. You do this by highlighting relevant skills and experience; therefore, you should always write your cover letter with the position you're applying for in mind.

Not to be confused with  personal statements for your CV , cover letters should complement your CV but not duplicate it. The consensus among recruiters when it comes to the length of these documents is the shorter the better. Typically, three to five short paragraphs, cover letters should not exceed one A4 page.

If sending electronically, put the text in the body of the email rather than as an attachment, to avoid it being detected by spam filters.

Applications should always include a cover letter unless the job advert instructs you differently.

How do I write a good cover letter?

Before writing your cover letter it's important that you do your research. While reading the job description thoroughly is essential, it's not enough on its own. To help you craft a successful cover letter you’ll need to find out more about:

• who will be reading your cover letter
• the organisation and its culture
• the industry it operates in and any relevant news
• company competitors and market position.
• the organisations goals over the next five years.

When writing your cover letter keep it brief, while making sure it emphasises your suitability for the job. Cover letters can be broken down into the following sections:

• First paragraph  - The opening statement should set out why you're writing the letter. Begin by stating the position you're applying for, where you saw it advertised and when you are available to start.
• Second paragraph  - Highlight relevant experience and demonstrate how your skills match the specific requirements of the job description. Summarise any additional strengths and explain how these could benefit the company.
• Third paragraph  - Cover why you're suitable for the job, what attracted you to this type of work, why you're interested in working for the company and what you can offer the organisation. This is a good opportunity to show off your knowledge of the company.
• Last paragraph  - Use the closing paragraph to round up your letter. Reiterate your interest in the role and indicate your desire for an  interview. Now is the time to mention any unavailable dates.

Once finished read through the document and cut out any unnecessary words and sentences. Don't fill up space by repeating what's already covered in your CV. As a rule, only mention your current salary or salary expectations if the employer has specifically asked you to. If you're asked to include this information, put it between the third and last paragraphs.

Unless the job advert states differently (for example, it may ask you to provide your CV and cover letter as a Word document) save with a .PDF file extension to make sure it can be opened and read on any machine. Windows PCs and Macs don't always work in harmony - Windows use a .docx file extension and Macs .pages but if the recruiter uses the opposite system, they may not be able to open your file. Using a .PDF file extension should solve this.

If you need help with your CV take a look at  how to write a CV .

How should I address a cover letter?

Always try and address your cover letter directly to the person who will be reading it. Bear in mind that you're more likely to receive a reply if you send it to the right person.

If you're struggling to find a named contact, you can use a general greeting such as:

• Dear Sir/Madam
• Dear Hiring manager
• Dear Human resources director.

However, general greetings should only be used once you have exhausted methods of finding a named contact.

How do I sign off?

How you sign off your cover letter depends on how you addressed it. If you include a named contact, sign off 'Yours sincerely'. If you use a general greeting, finish with 'Yours faithfully'.

Example cover letters

• Sample cover letter  - Used to highlight your skills and experience and to express your suitability and passion for the job, cover letters are used to encourage recruiters to look at your CV. Attention to detail is crucial and spelling, grammar and formatting needs to be spot on. Take a look at our sample cover letter for inspiration.
• Speculative cover letter  - These can sometimes be an effective method of creating an opportunity. To ensure that speculative cover letters are successful you'll need to do your research on the company you're applying to. Using our cover letter template, discover what to include in speculative applications.
• Cover letter by a Masters graduate  - You probably embarked on a Masters to expand your subject knowledge, gain industry contacts and improve your job prospects but to really make it work you need to know how to sell your postgraduate qualification to employers.
• Cover letter for a jobseeker with no experience  - It can be tough applying for a job with no experience, but our example cover letter shows you how to promote yourself to an employer if you haven't got any directly related work experience.
• Explaining a gap in your CV  - Knowing how to navigate around gaps in your CV can be tricky but it's a mistake to try and gloss over them. Your cover letter is the perfect place to explain these gaps in your employment history to potential employers. Take a look at our sample cover letter to find out how to go about it.
• Cover letter for changing career  - Find out how to explain a change of direction in our example cover letter for career changers. You'll need to briefly cover why you want to change career and relate your past experience and wealth of skills to the industry/job you’re applying to.
• Cover letter by an international graduate  - If you'd like to expand your horizons by working abroad, take a look at our cover letter of an international student applying for a job in the UK. You’ll need to do your research if you apply for a job in another country, as application rules may differ.
• Disclosing a disability  - Just like your gender, marital status and dependants your disability doesn't affect your ability to do a job and you're not legally required to disclose it on your CV or in your cover letter. However, if you would like to disclose a disability to outline any adjustments you may need, this sample cover letter will show you how.
• Internship cover letter - To set yourself above the competition you need to successfully sell your relevant skills and experience while conveying your passion for the role. As well as explaining to employers what the opportunity could do for you, you'll need to communicate what you could do for the company. Discover how to craft the perfect application for a formal internship with our internship cover letter template.
• Apprenticeship cover letter - Apprenticeships are an increasingly popular route into work, as well as a great alternative to university. Find out how to apply for these roles with our apprenticeship cover letter example.

For inspiration and guidance on crafting a CV see example CVs .

When should I follow up my application?

It's always a good idea to follow up on a job application if you don't hear back. If two weeks have passed and you've had no response, send an email to the hiring manager to check that your application has been received. Use this opportunity to reiterate your interest in the role and why you think you'd be an asset to the company.

Keep this email brief. It shouldn't act as a second cover letter or attempt to replace or repeat the original.

What are some top tips for writing a cover letter?

With employers often receiving lots of applications for each vacancy, you need to ensure that your cover letter makes a lasting impression for the right reasons. These tips will increase your chances of success:

• Tailor to the organisation  - You should rewrite your cover letter every time you apply for a position in order to target the company. Sending out a generic letter for all applications rarely yields positive results and recruiters can spot your lack of time and effort from a mile away.
• Format  - Presentation is important so you'll need to format your cover letter properly. Make sure the document is as uncluttered as possible, use the same font and size as you use in your CV and if you're sending it through the post or handing it in use good quality plain white paper to print it on.
• Use keywords that appear in the job advert - This lets the employer know that you’ve read and understood the job description. It also demonstrates that you’ve taken the time to tailor your application to the job.
• Identify your USPs  - They're your unique selling points. Be positive about what you have to offer and clearly outline how your skills and experience meet those requested in the job description. Demonstrate why you're the perfect candidate.
• Include examples  - Back up the claims in your cover letter with real evidence or examples that show how and when you've used your skills and experience.
• Save a copy - If you’re invited to interview you might need to refer back to it.

If you're a student or recent graduate, you can make an appointment with your university's careers and employability service to access further help when writing your cover letter. You'll be able to talk with specially-trained advisers, get advice on what to include and have a professional eye look over your application before sending.

To make sure you don’t trip up read about the  5 things to avoid when writing a cover letter .

Find out more

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• CV and Cover Letter
• How long should a cover...

How long should a cover letter be and what should I include?

9 min read · Updated on June 09, 2023

Think you can get away with a paragraph or two? Think again.

When it comes to crafting a cover letter, one common question that job seekers often ponder is, "How long should it be, and what exactly should I include?" The length of a cover letter is an important consideration, as it should be concise yet comprehensive enough to make a compelling case for your candidacy. 

In general, the typical length of a cover letter ranges from 250 to 400 words, which translates to an average of four paragraphs. However, it's important to remember that quality and content are paramount, regardless of the specific word count.

Finding the right balance between providing enough information and keeping the letter succinct can be a challenge. On one hand, you want to grab the attention of the hiring manager and make a strong impression. On the other hand, you don't want to overwhelm them with excessive details or lose their interest with a lengthy document.

In this article, we'll explore the optimal length for a cover letter and look at what essential elements should be included. While there are no hard and fast rules, understanding some general guidelines and best practices can help you create a compelling cover letter that captures the attention of potential employers.

What's the average length of a cover letter?

So, how long should your cover letter be? The average length of a cover letter typically ranges from 250 to 400 words. This usually translates to around three to four paragraphs. However, it's important to note that the length can vary depending on the specific circumstances, industry norms, the employer's expectations, and whether you're sending the cover letter as an email or as an attachment.

While there is no strict maximum word count for a cover letter, it's generally recommended to keep your cover letter to a maximum of one A4 page if you're sending it as an attachment and half a page if you're sending it as an email. Hiring managers often have limited time to review application materials, so a more concise cover letter can be more effective in conveying your key qualifications and maintaining their interest.

Although there is no set minimum length, it's important to ensure that your cover letter provides enough relevant information to make a strong case for your candidacy. A cover letter that is too short may come across as lacking substance or not sufficiently addressing the employer's needs. Aim for at least three paragraphs, covering key points such as your qualifications, experiences, and interest in the position.

Ultimately, the goal is to provide enough information to highlight your suitability and make a strong case for your candidacy while keeping the letter concise and focused. Remember, the quality and relevance of content are more important than strictly adhering to a specific word count.

What should be included in a cover letter?

Knowing what to include in a cover letter is just as crucial as knowing how long your cover letter should be. Here are the essential elements that should be incorporated into your cover letter to effectively showcase your qualifications, demonstrate your fit for the position, and capture the attention of hiring managers.

Contact details

Every cover letter should begin with your full name, location, phone number, and email address in the top right-hand corner. This is just like a traditional letter, but it removes unnecessary details, like your complete address. The details should mimic the contact details in your CV.

If you're sending your cover letter via email, your contact details can be listed in your email signature. Again, ensure they mirror the contact details in your CV.

Paragraph 1: Introduction 

Always address your cover letter to the person that is handling the applications. It could be the hiring manager, a talent acquisition partner, or even the Managing Director. If you don't know, find out. 

Then introduce yourself by stating the position you're applying for and how you learned about the job opening. Make sure you convey your enthusiasm for the role and demonstrate a genuine interest in the organisation, but do so through powerful language, not an overdose of exclamation marks.

Paragraph 2: Why you are a strong candidate

The next paragraph is dedicated to outlining why you're a strong candidate for the role. Summarise your relevant qualifications, skills, or experiences that make you a strong prospect for the position. Power them up with specific achievement-based details that showcase your abilities and demonstrate how you can contribute to the company's success.

Paragraph 3: Alignment with the company

The third paragraph's purpose is to show that you align with the company. Show that you have done your homework by mentioning specific aspects of the company that resonate with you, such as its mission, values, or recent accomplishments. Then explain how your values, skills, or experiences align with the company's goals or culture. Remember to link this back to what value you can bring to the organisation.

Paragraph 4: Additional qualifications or experience

If you have room and if you're able, use the fourth paragraph to expand on additional qualifications or experiences that could be of value to the prospective employer. For example, you might want to highlight experiences that are relevant to the position but not extensively covered in your CV. 

You could also emphasise unique skills, knowledge, or accomplishments that set you apart from the competition and make you a valuable asset to the company. Remember, always connect these additional qualifications to the company's needs or the specific requirements of the role.

Paragraph 5: Conclusion and call to action

In your closing paragraph, thank the person for considering your application and taking the time to review your cover letter and CV. Also, reiterate your interest in the position and express your eagerness for the opportunity to further discuss your qualifications.

Always mention your availability for an interview or a screening call and the best method to contact you. Then use a professional closing, such as “yours sincerely.”

How to make your cover letter the appropriate length

Crafting a cover letter of the right length is essential to make a strong impression while maintaining the reader's attention. Here are a few effective strategies to ensure your cover letter is the perfect length, allowing you to convey your qualifications in a compelling way.

Avoiding overly wordy sentences is one way to keep your cover letter to an appropriate length. Remember that every paragraph in your cover letter has a purpose and you must convey your message while using the fewest words necessary.

Choose words that have a substantial impact and convey your qualifications clearly. Instead of using long phrases or multiple words, opt for precise and descriptive language, like action verbs , to describe your accomplishments.

Prioritise relevant information

Tailor your cover letter to highlight the most relevant qualifications and experience that directly align with the demands of the job. Carefully read the job description and identify the key skills, qualifications, and requirements mentioned. These are the areas you should prioritise.

Do this by addressing them directly in your cover letter and explaining how your background and experiences meet those requirements, and how you can contribute to the organisation in those areas.

Avoid including unnecessary details or unrelated information. Remember, focusing on the experiences that directly demonstrate your ability to excel in the desired role is a winning strategy.

Use bullet points 

If you have a list of specific skills, accomplishments, or qualifications that you want to highlight, consider using bullet points throughout your cover letter. This can help to break up the text and make it easier to read, while also ensuring important details stand out.

For example, you could create a bulleted list to emphasise your most relevant qualifications, skills, or achievements that directly align with the job requirements. This allows the reader to quickly grasp your strengths without having to read through lengthy paragraphs. 

Focus on quality over quantity

Instead of trying to include every single detail about your background and experiences, prioritise quality over quantity. Choose the most impactful and relevant information that showcases your qualifications for the role.

Focus on the experiences that are most pertinent to the position and demonstrate your suitability. Instead of listing a generic set of skills or responsibilities, provide specific examples that showcase your achievements and demonstrate your abilities  as this will make your cover letter more impactful and memorable. Make sure you quantify your achievements to provide concrete evidence of your capabilities, too.

Avoid including irrelevant or extraneous details that don't contribute to your candidacy and eliminate any repetitive statements or excessive information. Each sentence should add value and strengthen your candidacy.

Avoid repetition with your CV

Remember that your cover letter should complement your CV, not duplicate it. Rather than repeating the information verbatim, use your cover letter to provide context and highlight specific aspects of your experience or qualifications mentioned in your CV. Explain how certain skills or accomplishments are relevant to the position you're applying for.

If there are any gaps or transitions in your CV that might raise questions, such as career changes or extended periods of unemployment , use your cover letter to briefly address them. Provide a short and positive explanation that demonstrates your adaptability, growth, or relevant skills acquired during that time.

While your CV may focus more on technical skills and professional experiences, your cover letter can provide an opportunity to showcase your soft skills , such as communication, leadership, problem-solving, or teamwork. Highlight how these qualities have been instrumental in your previous roles and how they make you a valuable asset for the prospective employer.

Proofread and edit

Proofreading and editing are crucial steps in creating a polished and professional cover letter. Review your cover letter carefully for any spelling, grammar, or punctuation mistakes. Typos and errors can make a negative impression and undermine your credibility. Use spell-check tools, but also read through your letter yourself to catch any errors that automated tools might miss.

Also, check for any awkward phrasing or confusing language and revise accordingly to make sure that your ideas flow logically and that the content is coherent and organised. Remove any unnecessary or repetitive information that doesn't add value to your cover letter too. Be on the lookout for filler words and phrases that weaken the impact of your writing.

Crafting a cover letter of the right length and content is crucial. To enhance your chances of success, consider enlisting the help of a professional CV and cover letter writing service . Their expertise can ensure your application stands out, leading you closer to your desired career opportunities.

Recommended reading:

How to write a cover letter that has maximum impact - plus examples!

The difference between CVs and cover letters

Do recruiters actually read cover letters anymore?

Related Articles:

What File Format Is Best for Your CV? Pros + Cons

Best fonts to use for a CV (with examples)

Should you put your address on a CV (with examples)

See how your CV stacks up.

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How Long Should a Cover Letter be in 2024?

• Cover letter
• · March 28 2024
• · 4 min read

Table of contents

A well-crafted cover letter holds the key to making a positive first impression on potential employers and most job seekers often find themselves grappling with the ideal cover letter length. Should it be brief and concise, or is it acceptable to delve into extensive details? In this article, we explore the optimal length for a cover letter in the UK and provide practical insights to help you strike the perfect balance between brevity and substance.

While there is no hard and fast rule regarding the exact word count for a cover letter, a range of 250 to 400 words is often considered appropriate. This range allows you to convey your qualifications effectively without overwhelming the reader. Remember, quality matters more than quantity. A well-written, short cover letter that clearly communicates your suitability for the role is more likely to make an impact than a lengthy one filled with unnecessary details.

What is the purpose of a cover letter?

Before delving into the cover letter length debate, let's understand the primary purpose of a cover letter. It serves as an introduction, presenting a snapshot of your qualifications, skills, and experiences relevant to the position you're applying for. A well-crafted cover letter showcases your enthusiasm, highlights your unique value proposition, and compels the reader to review your CV with keen interest. It should be tailored to each specific job application, reflecting your genuine interest in the role and the company.

Looking to create a professional cover letter?

How to keep your cover letter short and precise .

In today's fast-paced world, hiring managers and recruiters often have limited time to review each application thoroughly. Hence, brevity can be an asset when it comes to cover letters. Keeping it concise enables you to make your key points effectively, capturing the reader's attention within a limited word count. By focusing on your most relevant qualifications and achievements, you demonstrate your ability to convey information efficiently.

A short cover letter also forces you to prioritise and highlight your most impactful experiences, skills, and achievements. This approach ensures that the reader can easily grasp the core reasons why you are an ideal candidate for the role. It also shows your respect for the reader's time and conveys a level of professionalism.

How to ensure a well-written cover letter

While brevity is essential, a cover letter should not be so brief that it fails to provide meaningful insights into your qualifications. A cover letter that is too short might leave the reader wanting more, and it could be perceived as lacking effort or genuine interest.

To strike the right balance, focus on crafting a cover letter that is substantial and engaging. Use it as an opportunity to elaborate on a few key experiences or accomplishments that demonstrate your unique qualifications. Share specific examples that illustrate your skills and how they align with the requirements of the position.

Additionally, a longer cover letter may be appropriate if you are applying for a senior or executive-level position or seeking a role in academia or research, where detailed explanations of your work and credentials are expected. However, even in such cases, it's crucial to remain concise and avoid excessive elaboration. Refer to our academic CV example or how to write a good CV for more information. 

Top 5 tips on how to keep your cover letter short, clear, and concise

To help you meet the ideal length standards, here are a few handy tips for writing an effective cover letter:

Pay attention to your structure, refer to our article on how to structure your cover letter . 

Begin with a captivating introduction , clearly stating the position you're applying for and briefly mentioning relevant qualifications.

Highlight only the most pertinent qualifications that align with the job requirements, avoiding an exhaustive account of your work experience .

Utilise bullet points to convey information efficiently, breaking down achievements into easily digestible snippets.

Aim for a cover letter length of approximately 250 to 400 words, providing sufficient information while maintaining conciseness.

At the end of the day, both a cover letter and a CV are like personal marketing tools. Sometimes, a well-crafted cover letter can be the deciding factor in whether or not you secure an interview. So, it's crucial to find that perfect balance between keeping your cover letter concise and tailoring it to the specific job you're applying for. 

A concise cover letter that highlights your most relevant qualifications and experiences can captivate the reader's attention, while a longer letter can provide a more comprehensive picture of your credentials. The trick is to create a cover letter that complements your CV and shows off your best qualifications and experiences. Think of it as a dynamic duo that tells your story and convinces a potential future employer why you are the right for the job 

If you're ready to kickstart your journey but unsure of where to begin, our team is here to assist you in creating a job-specific CV and cover letter through our professional CV Writing Service . For additional inspiration, we encourage you to explore our comprehensive collection of cover letter templates or refer to our detailed guide on how to write a good CV .

How long should a covering letter be in the UK?

The ideal length for a covering letter in the UK generally falls within one page, typically ranging from 250 to 400 words. This length allows you to provide sufficient information while maintaining conciseness and ensuring the reader's attention is captured effectively. Learn more about how long a CV should be to accompany your cover letter.

Is a two-page cover letter too long?

A two-page cover letter is generally considered too long, as it may exceed the reader's attention span and could come across as excessive. It's important to prioritise the most relevant and compelling information, focusing on key qualifications and experiences that directly align with the job requirements.

How long should an academic cover letter be? 

For academic cover letters, the length may vary depending on the specific requirements outlined by the institution or position. In general, academic cover letters tend to be slightly longer than traditional cover letters, ranging from one to two pages. However, it's still essential to maintain conciseness and emphasise the most pertinent academic achievements and research experiences relevant to the role. Adhering to any specific guidelines provided by the institution or position is crucial in ensuring your cover letter is well-received.

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Expert Advice: How Long Should A Cover Letter Be?

We explain the ideal cover letter length

If you’re planning to submit a cover letter with your application, you’ve made an excellent choice.

Despite what you might hear, cover letters are still important.

A well-written cover letter can give you an edge over a similar applicant.

It’s also an additional opportunity to make the case for why you’re a great fit for the role.

In this post, we discuss:

• How long a cover letter should be
• What to write in your cover letter
• How to format and structure your cover letter (with a free template!)

How long should a cover letter be?

A cover letter should be one page long.

It should be made up of 4-5 paragraphs.

If you write a cover letter that’s any longer, recruiters will most likely skip over it.

Remember that your resume and cover letter are intended to serve as a highlight reel of your work experience and accomplishments.

You should prioritize your content to make sure that you grab the reader’s attention and provide information relevant to the decision they’re trying to make.

What should I write in the cover letter?

When thinking about what to write in your cover letter, we recommend putting yourself in a recruiter’s shoes.

People often make the common mistake of repeating information that's already on their resume without addressing their target role.

Ask yourself what questions the recruiter is trying to answer.

Simply put, they’re trying to understand:

1) What is this person’s work experience and background?

2) How does their background make them a good fit for the position I’m hiring for?

3) What will they be able to achieve for my company, given their track record?

4) Where do they rank in comparison to other applicants?

Your job is to answer these questions for them.

In other words, you need to bluntly tell them how your experience relates to the role you’re applying for.

Don’t leave them to assume.

Show them that you’ve done your research and that you’ll be able to provide exactly what they need.

To do so, reference your past experience, but always remember to tie it back to how it will help you succeed at the company.

How should I format and structure the cover letter?

Your cover letter should be divided into short paragraphs so that is easy for a reader to skim.

You can also consider incorporating bullet points into your cover letter to outline your career highlights, key performance metrics, or awards you received, for example.

Your cover letter’s format should align with that of your resume.

To make your resume and cover letter come off as a professional, cohesive package, you can copy and paste your resume’s heading onto the top of the cover letter.

Contentwise, you can structure your cover letter using the following template as a base:

1️⃣ INTRODUCTION

Dear [hiring manager],

I am writing to apply for [position name] at [company name]. I would make a strong fit for the role based on my [work experience/skill A], [work experience/skill B], and [work experience/skill C].

2️⃣3️⃣4️⃣ BODY PARAGRAPHS

[In the first sentence of each body paragraph, explain how the work experience/skill you mentioned in the intro make you a suitable fit for the role.]

[Then, provide a specific example.]

[In the last sentence, explain how the example demonstrates your ability to succeed in the target role at the company.]

5️⃣ CONCLUSION

Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you soon. If you have any questions regarding my application, please feel free to contact me.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Click here to see an example of an effective cover letter that follows this format.

About Resume Pilots

Resume Pilots is an award-winning executive resume writing firm and a proud member of the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches. Our previous clients include CEOs and senior executives at the world's leading companies.

As a professional services firm, we take your reputation seriously. We are committed to delivering writing excellence and superior service while operating with integrity and discretion. Recruitment firms we partner with also trust us to consistently deliver quality documents for their clients.

Our writers have studied in the Ivy League and other top-tier universities and have strong writing backgrounds coupled with industry experience.

Here's how we can help you:

Resume, Cover Letter, and LinkedIn Writing Services : If you are looking for end-to-end support, hire one of our professional resume writers to rewrite your documents from the ground up.

Executive Resume Template Downloads : If you plan to prepare your own resume, consider using one of our classic, ATS-friendly resume templates for Microsoft Word.

To learn more about our services, book an introductory call with our founder here or email [email protected] .

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About the Author Matt Glodz

Matt Glodz is the Founder and Managing Partner of Resume Pilots and a Certified Professional Resume Writer. After studying business communication at Cornell University, Matt worked within Fortune 500 companies, where he noted that qualified candidates were frequently denied interview opportunities due to poorly written documents. At Resume Pilots, Matt combines his business and writing background - which includes prior work for a Chicago Tribune publication - to craft resumes that give his clients the best chance of landing interviews. He works with clients ranging from CEOs to recent graduates and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. He has been quoted on numerous business and career-related topics in outlets including Business Insider, CNBC, Fortune, Glassdoor, The Ladders, and Thrive Global.

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