In today’s competitive job market, a well-crafted cover letter is crucial for making a strong first impression. It’s your opportunity to highlight your skills, experience, and passion for the role, going beyond what’s listed in your resume. A generic cover letter simply won’t cut it; you need to tailor it to each specific job and company to demonstrate your genuine interest and understanding of their needs. This article provides nine adaptable cover letter templates to help you create compelling introductions that will grab the attention of hiring managers and increase your chances of landing an interview.
These templates cover various industries and experience levels, offering a solid foundation for your cover letter. We’ll explore how to adapt each template to showcase your unique qualifications and demonstrate why you are the perfect candidate for the position. Remember to always proofread carefully and ensure your cover letter is free of errors before submitting it. By using these templates as a starting point and customizing them to fit your specific circumstances, you can create a powerful cover letter that helps you stand out from the competition.
9 Job Application Cover Letter Templates to Get You Hired
Template 1: The Traditional Cover Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name] (If known, otherwise use title)
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Hiring Manager Last Name],
I am writing to express my keen interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Platform where you saw the job posting]. With my [Number] years of experience in [Relevant Field] and a proven track record of [Key Achievement 1] and [Key Achievement 2], I am confident I possess the skills and qualifications necessary to excel in this role and contribute significantly to your team.
In my previous role at [Previous Company Name], I was responsible for [List of responsibilities, focusing on those relevant to the job description]. I consistently exceeded expectations in [Specific area of achievement], resulting in [Quantifiable result]. I am particularly drawn to [Company Name] because of [Mention something specific that interests you about the company – e.g., its mission, values, recent projects].
I am eager to learn more about this opportunity and discuss how my skills and experience can benefit [Company Name]. Thank you for your time and consideration. My resume is attached for your review.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature – if submitting a hard copy]
[Your Typed Name]
Template 2: The Career Changer Cover Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name] (If known, otherwise use title)
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Hiring Manager Last Name],
I am writing to express my strong interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Platform where you saw the job posting]. While my background is primarily in [Previous Field], I have developed a strong passion for [New Field] and have actively sought opportunities to gain relevant experience and skills.
My skills in [Skill 1 from previous field that is transferable], [Skill 2 from previous field that is transferable], and [Skill 3 from previous field that is transferable], honed during my time at [Previous Company Name], are directly applicable to the requirements of this role. For example, my experience in [Specific situation where you used a transferable skill] has prepared me to [How that skill will benefit the new role]. Furthermore, I have been actively pursuing knowledge and experience in [New Field] through [Mention courses, certifications, volunteer work, personal projects, etc.].
I am confident that my transferable skills, combined with my dedication to learning and my passion for [New Field], make me a strong candidate for this position. I am eager to contribute my skills and enthusiasm to [Company Name]. Thank you for your time and consideration. My resume is attached for your review.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature – if submitting a hard copy]
[Your Typed Name]
Template 3: The Entry-Level Cover Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name] (If known, otherwise use title)
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Hiring Manager Last Name],
I am writing to express my enthusiastic interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Platform where you saw the job posting]. As a recent graduate with a degree in [Your Degree] from [Your University], I am eager to begin my career in [Industry] and believe my skills and enthusiasm align perfectly with the requirements of this role.
During my studies, I developed a strong foundation in [Relevant Skill 1], [Relevant Skill 2], and [Relevant Skill 3]. I also gained practical experience through [Internship/Volunteer Experience/Relevant Project], where I was responsible for [Key Responsibilities and Achievements]. I am particularly passionate about [Area of interest related to the job], and I am eager to contribute my skills and learn from experienced professionals at [Company Name].
I am a highly motivated and quick learner with a strong work ethic and a desire to contribute to a dynamic team. I am confident that I can quickly adapt to the challenges of this role and make a valuable contribution to [Company Name]. Thank you for your time and consideration. My resume is attached for your review.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature – if submitting a hard copy]
[Your Typed Name]
Template 4: The Networking Cover Letter (Referral)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name] (If known, otherwise use title)
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Hiring Manager Last Name],
I am writing to express my interest in opportunities at [Company Name], as suggested by [Referral Name], who I understand works as a [Referral’s Job Title] within your [Department] team. [Referral Name] spoke highly of [Company Name]’s commitment to [Company Value/Aspect] and believed my skills and experience in [Your Field] would be a strong fit.
For the past [Number] years, I have worked in [Your Field], most recently at [Previous Company Name], where I was responsible for [Key Responsibilities, highlighting those relevant to the company and potential roles]. I have a proven track record of [Key Achievement 1] and [Key Achievement 2]. I am particularly interested in [Company Name]’s work in [Specific project/area that aligns with your skills] and believe I could make a significant contribution to your team.
I am eager to learn more about potential opportunities at [Company Name] and discuss how my skills and experience can benefit your organization. Thank you for your time and consideration. My resume is attached for your review.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature – if submitting a hard copy]
[Your Typed Name]
Template 5: The “Pain Point” Cover Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name] (If known, otherwise use title)
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Hiring Manager Last Name],
I am writing to express my strong interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I was particularly drawn to your requirement for someone who can [Specific requirement from the job description that addresses a company “pain point”], as this aligns perfectly with my experience and expertise in [Your Relevant Skill].
In my previous role at [Previous Company Name], I faced a similar challenge: [Describe a situation where you addressed a similar “pain point”]. By implementing [Your solution], I was able to achieve [Quantifiable results, demonstrating the impact of your solution]. I am confident that I can bring a similar level of success to [Company Name] by leveraging my skills in [Relevant skills] to address [Company’s “pain point”].
I am eager to learn more about this opportunity and discuss how my skills and experience can help [Company Name] overcome its challenges and achieve its goals. Thank you for your time and consideration. My resume is attached for your review.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature – if submitting a hard copy]
[Your Typed Name]
Template 6: The Creative Cover Letter (Use with Caution!)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name] (If known, otherwise use title)
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Hiring Manager Last Name],
Imagine a world where [Describe a problem the company/role solves in a creative way]. That’s the world I want to help you build as your next [Job Title]. My resume details the specifics, but here’s the headline: I bring [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and a passion for [Relevant Area] to the table, all seasoned with [Describe your personality/work style in a creative way – e.g., a dash of ingenuity and a sprinkle of relentless curiosity].
At [Previous Company Name], I didn’t just [Describe a responsibility in a standard way]; I [Describe the same responsibility in a creative and engaging way, highlighting your impact]. The result? [Quantifiable Result]. I’m confident I can bring that same energy and innovative thinking to [Company Name].
Ready to turn that “imagine” into reality? Let’s talk. Thank you for your time and consideration. My resume, a slightly less whimsical but equally informative document, is attached for your review.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature – if submitting a hard copy]
[Your Typed Name]
Template 7: The Follow-Up Cover Letter (After Applying)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name] (If known, otherwise use title)
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Hiring Manager Last Name],
I am writing to follow up on my application for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], which I submitted on [Date you applied]. I was particularly excited about [Specific aspect of the role/company that you mentioned in your original application or have learned more about since then].
Since submitting my application, I have been following [Company Name]’s recent work on [Specific project/initiative], and I am even more impressed by [Specific aspect that impressed you]. I believe my skills in [Relevant Skill 1] and [Relevant Skill 2] would be particularly valuable in contributing to this area.
I remain highly interested in this opportunity and would welcome the chance to discuss how my skills and experience can benefit [Company Name]. Thank you for your time and consideration. My resume is attached for your convenience.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature – if submitting a hard copy]
[Your Typed Name]
Template 8: The Targeted Cover Letter (Focus on Company Needs)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name] (If known, otherwise use title)
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Hiring Manager Last Name],
I am writing to express my strong interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. Having followed [Company Name]’s work in [Specific Area of Company’s work] for some time, I am particularly impressed by [Specific achievement or initiative of the company] and believe my skills and experience can directly contribute to your continued success.
Your focus on [Company Value/Goal] resonates deeply with me, as I have consistently demonstrated a commitment to [How you’ve demonstrated that value in your previous roles]. In my previous role at [Previous Company Name], I was responsible for [Key responsibilities, focusing on those that align with company values and needs], and I consistently exceeded expectations in [Specific area of achievement related to company needs], resulting in [Quantifiable result].
I am confident that my ability to [Key skill 1] and [Key skill 2], combined with my passion for [Company’s Mission/Industry], make me an ideal candidate for this position. Thank you for your time and consideration. My resume is attached for your review.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature – if submitting a hard copy]
[Your Typed Name]
Template 9: The Bold and Confident Cover Letter (Use Judiciously)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name] (If known, otherwise use title)
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Hiring Manager Last Name],
You’re looking for a [Job Title] who can [Key responsibility/skill needed], and I’m the one who can deliver. My resume speaks to my experience, but let me cut to the chase: I excel at [Top Skill 1] and consistently achieve [Positive Outcome 1], while simultaneously improving [Area of Improvement].
At [Previous Company Name], I wasn’t just a [Your Previous Role]; I was a [Describe your role in a bold and impactful way]. I transformed [Problem/Challenge] into [Positive Result] by implementing [Solution], resulting in [Quantifiable Results – large numbers preferred]. I’m not afraid to take risks, challenge the status quo, and drive results.
I’m confident that I can bring the same level of energy, innovation, and success to [Company Name]. Let’s schedule a time to discuss how I can immediately contribute to your team. Thank you for your time and consideration. My resume is attached.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature – if submitting a hard copy]
[Your Typed Name]
Conclusion: Crafting the Perfect Cover Letter
While these nine templates provide a solid starting point for your job application cover letter, remember that the most effective cover letters are those that are tailored to the specific job and company. Research the company thoroughly, understand their values and goals, and highlight how your skills and experience align with their needs. Be specific, provide concrete examples of your achievements, and always proofread carefully before submitting your application. Avoid generic statements and focus on demonstrating your genuine interest and passion for the role. A well-crafted cover letter can significantly increase your chances of landing an interview and ultimately, your dream job. Remember to choose the template that best reflects your personality and the tone of the company you are applying to. Good luck!