Find the Best Cover Letter Templates
When applying for jobs, creating a winning CV is just the first step. To get the job you want, you’ll need an application that stands out. To help, our online cover letter builder offers a selection of job-winning cover letter templates. Whether you’re seeking a job in sales, retail, marketing or even law, our tool has templates to help.
How do I write a covering letter for a job?
A common mistake people make when writing cover letters is to rush them. Take your time and start by reading how to write a cover letter:
- Be clear and concise - outline why you’re suited to the role, stick to the point
- Highlight achievements - it’s hard to talk yourself up, but remember that’s what a cover letter is for
- Back up your claims - provide evidence to prove you’re well-suited to the job
- Be friendly, but professional - ensure your tone is warm, but appropriate, so you make a good impression
- Proofread your work - always check for spelling and grammar errors before sending your letter
What is the best greeting for a cover letter?
When creating your cover letter, there are several greetings to choose from:
- ‘To the Hiring Manager’ - best if you don’t know the hiring manager’s name
- ‘Dear Sir/ Madam’ - another alternative, if you don’t know their name
- ‘Dear Mr/Mrs/Ms/Dr [surname]’ - use this if you know the hiring manager’s name, but haven’t met them in person
- ‘Dear [first name]’ - only use their first name if you know them personally, or have met them at interview
- Avoid using ‘To Whom it May Concern’ (old fashioned) or ‘Hi!’, ‘Hey there!’ and other casual greetings (too informal for a professional cover letter)
Our cover letter builder includes a wide selection of templates to choose from. Combined with our tips and the advice, you’ll see that each is designed to support you in building a job-winning cover letter.
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Popular UK Cover Letter Templates
To help you find the job you want, we’ve created professional cover letter templates for many industries and roles. For greater impact, our cover letter templates focus on the nuances of each sector. View 20 of the UK’s most popular cover letter templates and get some tips on how to customise them.
Engineering cover letter template
Engineering is a specialised role. It’s important that your cover letter outlines your technical problem solving skills. Mention any relevant qualifications or work experience that you have.
For example: do you have a Bachelors, Masters or PhD? What engineering projects have you worked on? What standards are you familiar with? Have you received any commendations or praise from previous bosses or mentors?
When explaining why you're suited to the role, highlight any technical skills you have. Researching the company is a good idea, too. Tailor your engineering cover letter to mention your interest in a project they're running, for instance.
Previous | Next
Graphic design cover letter template
Since graphic design is highly visual, cover letters for these types of jobs can be a particular challenge. Sound keen about the opportunity, but focus on facts.
Outline the software you are proficient using. This should include technical skills outside of your immediate skill area, which managers will find attractive. For example, you may be familiar with: Adobe Creative Suite, CorelDraw, Gimp, Captivate, HTML or CSS (to name a few).
Your CV will cover everything in detail. Also provide a link to your website or portfolio. Keep sentences short and uncomplicated.
Previous | Next
Marketing cover letter template
A strong marketing cover letter highlights communication and networking skills. It should also prove you have measurable experience, perhaps by driving sales pipelines, or web traffic.
Keep your letter punchy. Marketing roles tend to need high-energy people, so lots of strong verbs will highlight your active approach. For instance, rather than writing: ‘the sales team was supported by my work,’ try: ‘I helped drive sales’. Keep sentences short, but vary their length to improve the cadence of your writing.
Finally, highlight relevant certificates, diplomas or industry body memberships you may have, such as the Chartered Institute of Marketing.
Previous | Next
Mechanical engineering cover letter template
Mechanical engineers tend to work well in teams. For this reason, a job-winning mechanical engineering cover letter template will convey this.
Hiring managers will also want someone with strong creative problem-solving skills. That means talking about the engineering principles you're familiar with. Highlight a problem you faced in the past, and explain how you resolved it.
Engineers must be orderly thinkers with strong maths skills. Don’t be afraid to namedrop relevant qualifications. With all this technical detail, it’s important to keep your cover letter concise, too. Avoid big words, and keep your letter to one side of A4.
Previous | Next
Operations manager cover letter template
Operations managers plan and execute complicated projects. The job usually entails many responsibilities. Your operations manager cover letter should therefore show how organised and efficient you are.
After a brief outline of past experience, bullet your key skills. These might include: business and financial reporting skills, problem-solving skills, planning or project management qualifications (e.g. PRINCE2), leadership abilities (i.e. managing teams) and conflict management.
Focus on your strengths. Operations managers often face tough tasks. You’ll want to come across as efficient, but driven, and strong in the face of adversity.
Previous | Next
Private equity cover letter template
Those working in private equity tend to have a good head for business and finance. They excel at making (and saving) money. Your private equity cover letter template should highlight any past experience relating to these skills.
If you’ve worked in private equity before, name some projects where you've driven profits or made savings. If you’re new to the sector, describe some past sales roles you’ve had instead. Private equity is very money focused, so use figures or statistics if you can.
Keep language direct and write in plain English. It’s often tempting to use big words to sound clever, but clarity always comes before corporate jargon!
Previous | Next
Recruitment consultant cover letter template
A good recruitment consultant combines sales and communication skills. In your recruitment consultant cover letter, mention where you've worked before. Many consultants find new clients through cold calling. If you can, outline different approaches you’ve used. This will show you're not afraid of trying new things.
For example, you may have used social media, recruitment fairs (or recruitment events of your own making), face-to-face meetings and paid advertisement boards.
Confidence is key, but back up your claims with evidence. Using active language to describe your achievements will make your letter stronger.
Previous | Next
Sales assistant cover letter template
Customer service is important when working as a sales assistant. In your letter, you should highlight how you enjoy working with people.
A good sales assistant jobseeker will have an outgoing personality and positive attitude. An even stronger candidate will have broader retail experience. This might include stock take or merchandising expertise. Notice how our sales assistant cover letter template covers these types of skills.
Don’t just list your responsibilities though. You should also show how you’ve enjoyed your past experience. Highlight this by describing a situation where you used your initiative, and mentioning how rewarding this felt.
Previous | Next
Fashion cover letter template
Use our fashion cover letter template to highlight your fashion design expertise. The template starts by showing enthusiasm and suitability for the role. This is important. It’s also crucial to highlight any past experience that relates to the job you’re applying for.
As a fashion designer, your portfolio will do much of the talking for you. As such, your cover letter should highlight other miscellaneous skills. Note how a bulleted list keeps the letter concise. Outline experience such as design software skills you have like CAD or Adobe Illustrator, contract negotiations or scheduling management.
You could also mention client relations, such as experience with renowned customers.
Previous | Next
Finance cover letter template
Good finance and accounting professionals are sought after. Our finance cover letter template makes applying for such roles fast and simple. The template draws attention to why you're suited to the position, and outlines past experience.
When customising your cover letter template, you should be enthusiastic but friendly. Use clear sentences and short paragraphs. You should also focus on your achievements, highlighting professional memberships, such as CIPFA. Be sure to list both practical skills and ‘soft’ skills. Finally, end on a positive. Then, ask the hiring manager to review your CV.
Previous | Next
IT cover letter template
To work in IT, you’ll need to be good with computers and systems. Your IT cover letter should open by mentioning the vacancy you're applying for and where you found it. For instance, through a website, or someone you know.
In the second and third paragraphs, outline how you're suited to the role. Here’s the place to mention your degree in computing, for instance. You should also describe what systems and software you're familiar with. Windows, Mac, Linux (and so on). Use real life examples that show how you're the right person for the job.
If it helps, make a list of all the points you want to make before writing your letter.
Previous | Next
Law cover letter template
When applying for jobs as a lawyer/solicitor, your cover letter should prove that you have the right experience. It may help to get a fellow specialist to read over it.
There are a few things to bear in mind when writing your cover letter. Firstly, outline your qualifications (e.g. degree in law - LLB -or barrister certificate in legal practice). Next, be clear about your area of expertise, e.g. criminal law, corporate law, etc. Also highlight any professional memberships you have (for example, the Law Society).
You shouldn’t be afraid to use percentages or numbers to draw attention to your achievements. Lastly, only use as many words as you need. Be friendly, but direct.
Previous | Next
Legal cover letter template
Any legal sector job requires a high level of professionalism. This should be immediately clear from your cover letter.
Those working in the legal profession hold many responsibilities. This is true whether you’re working as a lawyer, a paralegal or a legal secretary. Our cover letter template opens by explaining why the applicant is suited to the role. Here, you should include your most relevant past experience (other jobs should be on your CV).
Given the often-technical language relating to legal roles, your cover letter will be easier to read if you list your skills as bullets. This saves space, rather than writing them out in full.
Previous | Next
Receptionist cover letter template
Receptionists have varied responsibilities. They must be fast and efficient, with good communications skills. They must also be comfortable working alone. Using our cover letter template as a basis, make sure you mention where you found the vacancy. Next, explain why you’re the best person for the job (include relevant past experience).
Whatever you do, focus on your strengths. Make sure you proofread your letter as well. This will ensure there are no spelling/grammar mistakes.
Hiring managers are busy people. When you've finished your letter, read it again and ask yourself: does it stand out? If not, restructure it so the strongest points come first.
Previous | Next
Admin cover letter template
Employers seeking admin staff want hard workers who are eager to learn. That's because every office has its own systems and procedures.
When writing your cover letter, sound enthusiastic, but don’t overuse adverbs. For instance, ‘I’m extremely excited by this brilliantly interesting opportunity’ sounds over the top. You should also highlight how you've helped improve systems and processes in past jobs. Use examples.
Once you’ve covered your experience, list relevant technical skills, including any specialist software you’ve used. Bullet points will do. Are you missing a skill listed in the ad? Don’t mention this in the cover letter. You can discuss it at interview.
Previous | Next
Apprenticeship cover letter template
If applying for an apprenticeship, you may be fresh out of school or education. If you don't have work experience yet, don’t worry. In your cover letter, you can mention a club where you were on the committee for. Or a charity you helped run events for. You could even mention a hobby; just show that you are interested and committed.
Avoid the temptation to inflate past experience. A surprisingly high 11% of people have lied on their CVs about having a degree, for instance. However, you should never lie in a job application. Focus on your strong points, but don’t be dishonest.
Previous | Next
Sales cover letter template
All cover letters should be clear and concise. However, this is particularly true for sales cover letters. Proving your communication skills is as important as highlighting your sales skills.
Open by introducing yourself and outlining what skills you’ll bring to the role. Next, describe (in brief) 1-2 key achievements and skills (expand on your CV). You should drop in some sales figures to prove your achievements. This will speak volumes to hiring managers with a head for numbers. Sounding confident (but not overconfident!) will help to improve your chances.
Previous | Next
Teacher cover letter template
Good teachers are hard to come by, but it’s still important to get your cover letter right. Customising our teacher cover letter template should help get the job you want. In the opening paragraph, introduce yourself and mention where you found the vacancy.
Next, prove you’re an effective teacher by listing challenges you’ve overcome. For instance, improved exam results, or an outstanding OFSTED result.
If you’ve worked as a teacher abroad, mention this too. Employers like teachers who can offer a fresh perspective. Don't forget to name any professional memberships you have, such as the National Education Union.
Previous | Next
Customer service cover letter template
Most professions involve a degree of customer service. This usually means working with people face to face or over the phone. Your cover letter should portray a friendly, upbeat attitude. Also show that you're resilient when faced with challenges.
A strong customer service cover letter will highlight your transferable skills. For example, if you worked in a call centre, as a hotel receptionist or shop assistant... how do these skills fit the current role?
Use clear language when describing your strengths. Mention how you found the vacancy, and why you’re the best person for the job. Use real life examples to back up your claims.
Previous | Next
Retail cover letter template
Jobs in retail tend to be in high demand, so your retail cover letter needs to stand out. Highlight your past skills and experience, and be enthusiastic about the opportunity. That said, you should avoid unnecessary adverbs/superlatives, which can sound insincere.
When discussing your past experience, don’t list all your previous retail jobs. Instead, highlight the important ones. You can also mention any key responsibilities you’ve held, including management roles.
Lastly, highlight your key achievements, such as working in a busy high street store at Christmas. Before you send it, proofread your letter for spelling and grammar errors. Letters with mistakes don't get interviews!
Previous | Next
Engineering cover letter template
Engineering is a specialised role. It’s important that your cover letter outlines your technical problem solving skills. Mention any relevant qualifications or work experience that you have.
For example: do you have a Bachelors, Masters or PhD? What engineering projects have you worked on? What standards are you familiar with? Have you received any commendations or praise from previous bosses or mentors?
When explaining why you're suited to the role, highlight any technical skills you have. Researching the company is a good idea, too. Tailor your engineering cover letter to mention your interest in a project they're running, for instance.
Graphic design cover letter template
Since graphic design is highly visual, cover letters for these types of jobs can be a particular challenge. Sound keen about the opportunity, but focus on facts.
Outline the software you are proficient using. This should include technical skills outside of your immediate skill area, which managers will find attractive. For example, you may be familiar with: Adobe Creative Suite, CorelDraw, Gimp, Captivate, HTML or CSS (to name a few).
Your CV will cover everything in detail. Also provide a link to your website or portfolio. Keep sentences short and uncomplicated.
Marketing cover letter template
A strong marketing cover letter highlights communication and networking skills. It should also prove you have measurable experience, perhaps by driving sales pipelines, or web traffic.
Keep your letter punchy. Marketing roles tend to need high-energy people, so lots of strong verbs will highlight your active approach. For instance, rather than writing: ‘the sales team was supported by my work,’ try: ‘I helped drive sales’. Keep sentences short, but vary their length to improve the cadence of your writing.
Finally, highlight relevant certificates, diplomas or industry body memberships you may have, such as the Chartered Institute of Marketing.
Mechanical engineering cover letter template
Mechanical engineers tend to work well in teams. For this reason, a job-winning mechanical engineering cover letter template will convey this.
Hiring managers will also want someone with strong creative problem-solving skills. That means talking about the engineering principles you're familiar with. Highlight a problem you faced in the past, and explain how you resolved it.
Engineers must be orderly thinkers with strong maths skills. Don’t be afraid to namedrop relevant qualifications. With all this technical detail, it’s important to keep your cover letter concise, too. Avoid big words, and keep your letter to one side of A4.
Operations manager cover letter template
Operations managers plan and execute complicated projects. The job usually entails many responsibilities. Your operations manager cover letter should therefore show how organised and efficient you are.
After a brief outline of past experience, bullet your key skills. These might include: business and financial reporting skills, problem-solving skills, planning or project management qualifications (e.g. PRINCE2), leadership abilities (i.e. managing teams) and conflict management.
Focus on your strengths. Operations managers often face tough tasks. You’ll want to come across as efficient, but driven, and strong in the face of adversity.
Private equity cover letter template
Those working in private equity tend to have a good head for business and finance. They excel at making (and saving) money. Your private equity cover letter template should highlight any past experience relating to these skills.
If you’ve worked in private equity before, name some projects where you've driven profits or made savings. If you’re new to the sector, describe some past sales roles you’ve had instead. Private equity is very money focused, so use figures or statistics if you can.
Keep language direct and write in plain English. It’s often tempting to use big words to sound clever, but clarity always comes before corporate jargon!
Recruitment consultant cover letter template
A good recruitment consultant combines sales and communication skills. In your recruitment consultant cover letter, mention where you've worked before. Many consultants find new clients through cold calling. If you can, outline different approaches you’ve used. This will show you're not afraid of trying new things.
For example, you may have used social media, recruitment fairs (or recruitment events of your own making), face-to-face meetings and paid advertisement boards.
Confidence is key, but back up your claims with evidence. Using active language to describe your achievements will make your letter stronger.
Sales assistant cover letter template
Customer service is important when working as a sales assistant. In your letter, you should highlight how you enjoy working with people.
A good sales assistant jobseeker will have an outgoing personality and positive attitude. An even stronger candidate will have broader retail experience. This might include stock take or merchandising expertise. Notice how our sales assistant cover letter template covers these types of skills.
Don’t just list your responsibilities though. You should also show how you’ve enjoyed your past experience. Highlight this by describing a situation where you used your initiative, and mentioning how rewarding this felt.
Fashion cover letter template
Use our fashion cover letter template to highlight your fashion design expertise. The template starts by showing enthusiasm and suitability for the role. This is important. It’s also crucial to highlight any past experience that relates to the job you’re applying for.
As a fashion designer, your portfolio will do much of the talking for you. As such, your cover letter should highlight other miscellaneous skills. Note how a bulleted list keeps the letter concise. Outline experience such as design software skills you have like CAD or Adobe Illustrator, contract negotiations or scheduling management.
You could also mention client relations, such as experience with renowned customers.
Finance cover letter template
Good finance and accounting professionals are sought after. Our finance cover letter template makes applying for such roles fast and simple. The template draws attention to why you're suited to the position, and outlines past experience.
When customising your cover letter template, you should be enthusiastic but friendly. Use clear sentences and short paragraphs. You should also focus on your achievements, highlighting professional memberships, such as CIPFA. Be sure to list both practical skills and ‘soft’ skills. Finally, end on a positive. Then, ask the hiring manager to review your CV.
IT cover letter template
To work in IT, you’ll need to be good with computers and systems. Your IT cover letter should open by mentioning the vacancy you're applying for and where you found it. For instance, through a website, or someone you know.
In the second and third paragraphs, outline how you're suited to the role. Here’s the place to mention your degree in computing, for instance. You should also describe what systems and software you're familiar with. Windows, Mac, Linux (and so on). Use real life examples that show how you're the right person for the job.
If it helps, make a list of all the points you want to make before writing your letter.
Law cover letter template
When applying for jobs as a lawyer/solicitor, your cover letter should prove that you have the right experience. It may help to get a fellow specialist to read over it.
There are a few things to bear in mind when writing your cover letter. Firstly, outline your qualifications (e.g. degree in law - LLB -or barrister certificate in legal practice). Next, be clear about your area of expertise, e.g. criminal law, corporate law, etc. Also highlight any professional memberships you have (for example, the Law Society).
You shouldn’t be afraid to use percentages or numbers to draw attention to your achievements. Lastly, only use as many words as you need. Be friendly, but direct.
Legal cover letter template
Any legal sector job requires a high level of professionalism. This should be immediately clear from your cover letter.
Those working in the legal profession hold many responsibilities. This is true whether you’re working as a lawyer, a paralegal or a legal secretary. Our cover letter template opens by explaining why the applicant is suited to the role. Here, you should include your most relevant past experience (other jobs should be on your CV).
Given the often-technical language relating to legal roles, your cover letter will be easier to read if you list your skills as bullets. This saves space, rather than writing them out in full.
Receptionist cover letter template
Receptionists have varied responsibilities. They must be fast and efficient, with good communications skills. They must also be comfortable working alone. Using our cover letter template as a basis, make sure you mention where you found the vacancy. Next, explain why you’re the best person for the job (include relevant past experience).
Whatever you do, focus on your strengths. Make sure you proofread your letter as well. This will ensure there are no spelling/grammar mistakes.
Hiring managers are busy people. When you've finished your letter, read it again and ask yourself: does it stand out? If not, restructure it so the strongest points come first.
Admin cover letter template
Employers seeking admin staff want hard workers who are eager to learn. That's because every office has its own systems and procedures.
When writing your cover letter, sound enthusiastic, but don’t overuse adverbs. For instance, ‘I’m extremely excited by this brilliantly interesting opportunity’ sounds over the top. You should also highlight how you've helped improve systems and processes in past jobs. Use examples.
Once you’ve covered your experience, list relevant technical skills, including any specialist software you’ve used. Bullet points will do. Are you missing a skill listed in the ad? Don’t mention this in the cover letter. You can discuss it at interview.
Apprenticeship cover letter template
If applying for an apprenticeship, you may be fresh out of school or education. If you don't have work experience yet, don’t worry. In your cover letter, you can mention a club where you were on the committee for. Or a charity you helped run events for. You could even mention a hobby; just show that you are interested and committed.
Avoid the temptation to inflate past experience. A surprisingly high 11% of people have lied on their CVs about having a degree, for instance. However, you should never lie in a job application. Focus on your strong points, but don’t be dishonest.
Sales cover letter template
All cover letters should be clear and concise. However, this is particularly true for sales cover letters. Proving your communication skills is as important as highlighting your sales skills.
Open by introducing yourself and outlining what skills you’ll bring to the role. Next, describe (in brief) 1-2 key achievements and skills (expand on your CV). You should drop in some sales figures to prove your achievements. This will speak volumes to hiring managers with a head for numbers. Sounding confident (but not overconfident!) will help to improve your chances.
Teacher cover letter template
Good teachers are hard to come by, but it’s still important to get your cover letter right. Customising our teacher cover letter template should help get the job you want. In the opening paragraph, introduce yourself and mention where you found the vacancy.
Next, prove you’re an effective teacher by listing challenges you’ve overcome. For instance, improved exam results, or an outstanding OFSTED result.
If you’ve worked as a teacher abroad, mention this too. Employers like teachers who can offer a fresh perspective. Don't forget to name any professional memberships you have, such as the National Education Union.
Customer service cover letter template
Most professions involve a degree of customer service. This usually means working with people face to face or over the phone. Your cover letter should portray a friendly, upbeat attitude. Also show that you're resilient when faced with challenges.
A strong customer service cover letter will highlight your transferable skills. For example, if you worked in a call centre, as a hotel receptionist or shop assistant... how do these skills fit the current role?
Use clear language when describing your strengths. Mention how you found the vacancy, and why you’re the best person for the job. Use real life examples to back up your claims.
Retail cover letter template
Jobs in retail tend to be in high demand, so your retail cover letter needs to stand out. Highlight your past skills and experience, and be enthusiastic about the opportunity. That said, you should avoid unnecessary adverbs/superlatives, which can sound insincere.
When discussing your past experience, don’t list all your previous retail jobs. Instead, highlight the important ones. You can also mention any key responsibilities you’ve held, including management roles.
Lastly, highlight your key achievements, such as working in a busy high street store at Christmas. Before you send it, proofread your letter for spelling and grammar errors. Letters with mistakes don't get interviews!
Breaking it Down: The Anatomy of a Standard UK Cover Letter Template
Naturally, every cover letter is different. Even an excellent template needs tweaking for each job application. That said, there are attributes common to all cover letters. In the following section, we explain:
- How to structure the text in a standard UK cover letter.
- How to lay out a standard UK cover letter template.
- How a standard UK cover letter template should complement your CV.
How to structure a standard UK cover letter template
In general, your cover letter will follow a common pattern. This is true, whatever job you're applying for. Working from top to bottom, your letter should include the following elements.
How a standard UK cover letter template should look
Formatting your cover letter may seem unnecessary. However, layout and formatting are crucial for making a good impression. If an employer can’t read your cover letter easily, they’re highly unlike to look at your CV or call you for an interview.
Four tips for formatting a UK cover letter template
- Use an easy to read font like Times New Roman or Arial, 12 point. Don't use 'quirky' fonts like Comic Sans. They stand out, but for all the wrong reasons.
- Use short sentences and paragraphs. Stick to one key point per paragraph. Leave space between each one, too. Some white space is a good thing. It gives your words freedom to breathe and helps the hiring manager skim your letter, pulling out salient points more easily.
- Avoid coloured fonts. It may be appropriate to use a small splash of colour (in the header, for example) but in general it's safest not to. Bright fonts are hard to read. If the manager can’t read your application, they’ll toss it straight in the ‘no’ pile.
- Don’t use pictures or ‘jazz up’ your cover letter with imagery. This is distracting and looks unprofessional. Nor should you include a photograph of yourself. Many companies have strict non-discrimination rules, which a photograph can breach.
How should a standard UK cover letter template work with my CV?
Like your CV, your cover letter should be clean and crisp. Ensure that:
- It is correctly formatted, using the same fonts and styles as your CV (this demonstrates - without explicitly saying it - that you have an eye for detail).
- Your CV details any qualifications mentioned in your cover letter.
- Any jobs mentioned in your cover letter are included under your CV's work experience section.
- Any other achievements mentioned in your letter (awards, sales figures and so on) are included in your CV's personal profile
Need to Find a Cover Letter Template Quickly? Choose from Our Top 10 Universal Cover Letter Templates
When looking for a job, all the things you have to consider can be overwhelming. That's OK! We’re here to help you choose from the vast range of cover letter templates available on the market. Make your life easier, by choosing from one of the following top ten.
Word cover letter template
Our Word cover letter template lets you get going right away. Pre-formatted to work in MS Office, it includes signposts and a basic structure for all the info you should include. Complete your job-winning cover letter fast, focusing your energy on your job search instead.
Word cover letter template
Our Word cover letter template lets you get going right away. Pre-formatted to work in MS Office, it includes signposts and a basic structure for all the info you should include. Complete your job-winning cover letter fast, focusing your energy on your job search instead.
Professional cover letter template
Making a good impression is hard enough without worrying if your letter looks right. Our professional cover letter template shows you where to include key skills and achievements. It also saves you the hassle of deciding which fonts and layouts to use, making life much easier.
Professional cover letter template
Making a good impression is hard enough without worrying if your letter looks right. Our professional cover letter template shows you where to include key skills and achievements. It also saves you the hassle of deciding which fonts and layouts to use, making life much easier.
Best cover letter template
As the name suggests, our best cover letter template is one of our most popular. It includes all the information you need to create a job-winning cover letter. It also includes a neat and tidy layout to help impress potential employers. Next step... job interview?
Best cover letter template
As the name suggests, our best cover letter template is one of our most popular. It includes all the information you need to create a job-winning cover letter. It also includes a neat and tidy layout to help impress potential employers. Next step... job interview?
Good cover letter template
Think of a good cover letter template as the gateway to your CV. If you want potential employers to invite you for an interview, you need a strong cover letter. It'll help you get to the next step by encouraging employers to look at your CV.
Good cover letter template
Think of a good cover letter template as the gateway to your CV. If you want potential employers to invite you for an interview, you need a strong cover letter. It'll help you get to the next step by encouraging employers to look at your CV.
Basic cover letter template
Do you have a tendency to write too much? Then our basic cover letter template could be the ideal one to download. An uncomplicated cover letter, it gets straight to the point. Use it to highlight key skills and suitability, without getting hung up too much detail.
Basic cover letter template
Do you have a tendency to write too much? Then our basic cover letter template could be the ideal one to download. An uncomplicated cover letter, it gets straight to the point. Use it to highlight key skills and suitability, without getting hung up too much detail.
Simple cover letter template
Sadly, many job applications don’t make the final cut. This is often due to over-complicated cover letters that are poorly written. Our simple cover letter template remedies this by highlighting your best attributes. Hiring managers will be able to judge your suitability at a glance.
Simple cover letter template
Sadly, many job applications don’t make the final cut. This is often due to over-complicated cover letters that are poorly written. Our simple cover letter template remedies this by highlighting your best attributes. Hiring managers will be able to judge your suitability at a glance.
Online cover letter template
In today's digital age, you no longer have to have to create your job applications entirely from scratch. Our online cover letter template builder lets you create a job-winning cover letter for whatever job you want. Fast and simple, use it to help you with any type of job application - online or offline.
Online cover letter template
In today's digital age, you no longer have to have to create your job applications entirely from scratch. Our online cover letter template builder lets you create a job-winning cover letter for whatever job you want. Fast and simple, use it to help you with any type of job application - online or offline.
UK cover letter template
Did you know that most countries have different writing conventions for cover letters? For instance, the UK and US use different kinds of language, and even have different page sizes. As an applicant for a UK based role, use our UK cover template to ensure you tick the right boxes.
UK cover letter template
Did you know that most countries have different writing conventions for cover letters? For instance, the UK and US use different kinds of language, and even have different page sizes. As an applicant for a UK based role, use our UK cover template to ensure you tick the right boxes.
Short cover letter template
Our short cover letter template is a good option if you’re applying for a job that's likely to get many applications. Busy managers will welcome a short, punchy cover letter. This template makes it fast and simple to highlight your key skills, achievements and work experience.
Short cover letter template
Our short cover letter template is a good option if you’re applying for a job that's likely to get many applications. Busy managers will welcome a short, punchy cover letter. This template makes it fast and simple to highlight your key skills, achievements and work experience.
General cover letter template
Unsure what type of cover letter to write? Our general cover letter template is a safe bet if you want to cover all bases. You can customise it to the exact needs of the job you’re applying for. It'll help you make a great first impression, whatever the job.
General cover letter template
Unsure what type of cover letter to write? Our general cover letter template is a safe bet if you want to cover all bases. You can customise it to the exact needs of the job you’re applying for. It'll help you make a great first impression, whatever the job.
6 Ways That Using a Cover Letter Template Helps Your Job Search
What with finding vacancies, figuring out how to write a CV and then applying for jobs, you have enough on your plate without writing a cover letter from scratch. That’s why our cover letter templates are designed to help your job search. Having a template at your fingertips makes the process much faster and simpler.
Use a cover letter template with clear structure
Most cover letter templates follow the UK’s standard business letter structure. This starts with your postal address in the top right hand corner, followed by any other contact information. In the top left corner, include the employer’s address. After this leave a space. Then include the date on the right hand side.
Below the date (on the left) include the subject of the letter, e.g. ‘Re: application for teaching assistant role’. After this, begin your letter using the appropriate greeting. Use simple fonts, size 12, and include line breaks between paragraphs to make your letter easier to read. Finally, left-justify all content, and leave a good border.
Include the right information in your cover letter template
According to LinkedIn, 48% of businesses say their best hires come from employee referrals. This highlights how important it is to make a good first impression as an outside applicant. You need to include the proper information in your cover letter. For instance, have you won any awards? Achieved something your colleagues didn’t? Thrived in a challenging situation?
Focus on your achievements, but only highlight those relevant to the job you're applying for. For instance, your creative writing award may not be that relevant for an engineering role! Think from the employer’s perspective. What are they seeking? Include anything that helps you stand out from the competition.
Use different formats in your cover letter template
Busy employers will come across many similar applications. To help them (and to draw out key pieces of information about yourself) vary the format that you write in.
For instance:
- Use bullets to highlight key technical skills.
- Make (sparing) use of italics or bolding to highlight your most important selling points.
- Keep sentences short, but vary their length to help your writing flow.
- Use spacing between paragraphs to break up the text.
What you write in your cover letter is the most important thing. But these various methods can help to make a big visual difference.
Layout and design of your cover letter template
For professional jobs, like legal or private equity roles, always use a standard business letter template. We have plenty of cover letter examples available to download. The layout is clear, crisp and professional. You can’t go too far wrong.
Of course, the joy of a template is that you can choose a different one to suit every job you apply for. Our cover letters come with a range of layouts and designs. This saves you the hassle of having to worry too much about how your cover letter looks, so you can concentrate on what’s most important - preparing for an interview!
Coordinate your cover letter template with your CV
Your cover letter and CV should always use the same font and a consistent layout. This looks neat and tidy, while showing employers that you care about the finer details.
Be sure that whatever you mention in your cover letter is also included in your CV. This means employers can learn more. If you need help, use our free CV builder. Finally, when applying for numerous jobs, make sure you amend both cover letter and CV to fit the needs of that job. When highlighting your skills, make sure you frame them in the context of the specific application. Sounding too generic may turn an employer off.
Ensure your cover letter template meets the recruiter’s expectations
While your CV can go into detail, your cover letter still should tick off the recruiter's needs. Recruiters (agencies and companies) receive many applications. That’s why our cover letter templates aim to help you tick off all their requirements in a clear, concise way.
Are project management skills are vital to the role? Then list your PRINCE2 or LEAN qualification. Has the company worked on a project that interests you? Then mention this in the letter. Do you have career goals? Name them. All this will show the employer you are serious about the job and are sending a thoughtful and considered application.
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7 Top Tips for Using Cover Letter Templates
Writing cover letters is often a challenge. However, the hardest part is usually getting started. Using a cover letter template designed specifically for the industry you’re applying for a job in can make the process much simpler. And it’s much faster than creating one from scratch!
Most important cover letter template tips
To complement your cover letter, we also provide a wide range of professional CV templates to download. Make sure you complete your CV before working on your cover letter. The former should always inform the latter - not the other way around. Use the following tips to get the best from your chosen cover letter template:
- Use your CV’s personal profile/statement to help focus your mind. Then decide on the key message you want to get across with your cover letter.
- Don’t waffle. Instead, stick to the outlined structure provided in the template.
- Pay attention to your greeting and sign-off. Ideally, find out the name of the person you’re sending the letter to and use the appropriate salutation.
- When explaining why you’re perfect for the job, be sure you include one great example, with a statistic. There should be more details included in your CV.
- Pay attention to the tone of your cover letter. Keep it strong and positive, but not overly salesy. Avoid sounding desperate.
- Be thoughtful about what you name the final file. Bear in mind that any prospective employer is likely to see the file name.
- Once you’ve completed your template, run the spell check. It’s also good practice to read it through a few times by eye. Spell checkers can sometimes miss the subtle nuances of language.
Get the Job You Want With Our Cover Letter Templates
Now you have everything you need to create a job-winning cover letter. Using our tips, advice (and of course, our cover letter templates!) you should now be able to produce a cover letter that:
- Opens with a professional, friendly greeting.
- Highlights your suitability for the role you are applying for.
- Describes your past experience in the most positive light possible.
- Avoids mentioning any potential shortcomings.
- Ends positively, while ‘closing the deal’ and encouraging employers to contact you.
Make cover letter writing fast and simple
Our online cover letter builder provides everything you need you to create job-winning cover letters. It saves you from the pain of looking at a blank sheet of paper, providing you with a wide range of templates, best practice tips, example text, and even more advice on what to do.
What’s more, everything we've added to our cover letter builder has been designed to help you get the job you want. We want to make it as quick and easy for jobseekers (that means you!) to create great CVs and brilliant cover letters that help you land the job.