What Is a Cover Letter Template?
A cover letter template contains pre-written content for cover letters, so you don't waste time trying to think about what you should write.
You can choose to use a modern cover letter template or a simpler classic cover letter template.
Even free cover letter templates allow you to quickly write letters that may be similar but different from those you've already written.
Why Should I Use a Cover Letter Template?
Your cover letter will be more impressive if you create it using a professional template.
You can also create multiple cover letters with a template by customizing them for the different job postings and companies.
Using free professional cover letter templates is an easy way to include the essential information employers need. It’s always a good idea to customize the document with your personality.
Knowing how to write a cover letter correctly involves understanding the structure of a cover letter written by a professional.
The sample template below will guide you as you compose your letter, helping to make sure that everything is in its proper place and making it much easier to submit to potential employers.
Free Cover Letter Template
Simple Cover Letter Template
[My Name]
[My Address]
[City & Zip Code]
[My Phone Number]
[Date]
[Name of Hiring Manager]
[Job Title]
[Name of Company / Organization]
[Company Address]
[City and Zip Code]
Dear [Name of Hiring Manager],
{Introduction} Say who I am, say where I saw the job listing, and explain why I’m applying for the job.
{Main paragraphs} Outline my previous work experience. What are my skills, abilities, achievements, and qualifications? Explain why I could be a valuable asset to the company. Explain how my skills and experience can contribute to the goals of the company. Give measurable examples of my achievements (example: improved delivery efficiency by 37%).
Tell the Hiring Manager you would like to discuss the position further in an interview. Make sure you indicate the best way to contact you (phone/email). Don’t forget to thank the person for reading your application, and their time.
Regards,
[My Name]
| Download Free cover letter templates microsoft word (.docx) |
Fill in your own work / career / personal information in each section of this template and include detailed paragraphs about your best skills.
Hiring managers often skim a cover letter before looking at resumes, so it’s vital to make a great first impression.
What cover letter template should I use?
To get hired for a job listing, you need to stand out from the crowd. When choosing a custom cover letter template, try to match your skills and experience level with the theme of the template.
Basic and simple cover letter templates are best for any application, whether you’re applying for a job or school.
What are the advantages of using a professional cover letter template?
- A cover letter template makes job applications easier
- You can find a cover letter template for any type of job application
- Cover letter templates can be customized
By using cover letter templates, you can create multiple cover letters in less time. When a cover letter template is used, the letter has a professional look to it. A professional layout is what prospective employers will look for when scanning through many cover letters and resumes.
What Key Information Do I Include in My Cover Letter?
When cover letter writing, don't forget to include the following:
- Specific details about the job you're applying for (i.e., what the posted job requirements are).
- Your specific knowledge/qualifications that meet these requirements, such as "have three years' experience writing cover letters".
- Any other information unique to you and why you'd be the best candidate for the job.
You don't have to cover all of these points in each cover letter you write, but it's good to keep them in mind when writing cover letters for different jobs.
Also, make sure your cover letter is no longer than 2 pages long! One page is best; use a cover letter template if you are sure of how to write a professional cover letter.
Companies receive cover letters from many job seekers, whether they're hiring for internships or permanent positions. One cover letter with the same content as another will be more likely to get deleted than read. By using a cover letter template and varying your cover letters, you'll have a better chance of grabbing an employer's attention.
More Cover Letter Templates
You can customize each cover letter for every different job application you submit. With time and practice, you can create the perfect cover letter template for yourself.
Why Should I Use a Cover Letter Template?
Your cover letter will be more impressive if you create it using a professional template. You can also create multiple cover letters with a template by customizing them for the different job postings and companies.
General Tips
- Include a cover letter with your application if you can. Not including one could potentially be a disqualifier.
- A Cover Letter should be no more than 1 page.
- It should answer the question: Why should we hire you?
- Tailor the cover letter to different jobs. Use keywords and skills from the job description to help with ATS (Applicant Tracking System) scans. Show that you are a match for the skills they need.
- Convey a friendly tone and write in your natural, professional style.
- Write in the first person (I, me, my).
- Your Cover Letter is a good place to deal with things not addressed on your resume, such as gaps in employment.
- Focus on the positives, especially if you have some tricky circumstances to discuss. For example, to explain an employment gap, you might discuss how you have been keeping your skills sharp. Maybe you could explain how your situation has changed for the better and assure them that you will be focused on the new role.
- Don’t mention salary.
Writing a Cover Letter
1. Include the date and address of the hiring manager/company first.
2. Next address the hiring team. If you can find the name of the recruiter or hiring manager, use their name in your greeting.
If you do not know a specific name, you can address it to the department/team; it’s sometimes mentioned in the job description.
If you don’t know the department/team, the default is:
4. First paragraph: Say why you are writing and how you learned of the opportunity. Mention the job title of interest.
If someone referred you, mention the name of that person:
Try to establish a personal connection (e.g., you love and use their products, the company mission resonates with you, your respect for their innovations, etc.)
Don't just focus on the benefits to you, say how you would benefit the company:
5. Second paragraph: Highlight key skills, qualifications, and accomplishments that are most relevant to the role you are seeking.
If you are changing careers, highlight the transferable skills you have that match what they want.
Another approach is to briefly describe your key qualifications then list about 3 specific, measurable accomplishments (as bullets) that illustrate those qualifications. Make sure they are highly relevant to the job you’re applying for.
6. Third Paragraph: Provide any final information that you didn’t include in the first 2 paragraphs. For example, personal qualities, explanation of employment gaps, why you are changing careers, and why you believe you’ll be successful).
7. Suggest a time to discuss the opportunity further and how you can add value to the company.
Thank them for their consideration.