job cover letter uk

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• Careers advice
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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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Sample cover letter

Cover letters add context to your CV and when used correctly are a great way to convince employers that you're right for the job. This sample cover letter should help you get started

A cover letter demonstrates to recruiters how well you express yourself, so you need to make sure that you don't just repeat your CV or give rambling explanations. Instead, use this opportunity to focus on your skills and experience, saving your qualifications for your CV.

The basic cover letter structure covers:

• why you're writing the letter
• why you think you're suitable for the job (with examples)
• relevant skills and experience
• summary of your interest in the role.

Double check what you've written as spelling mistakes or lack of attention to detail will put your cover letter straight on the no pile.

Please be aware that this is an example. Use this cover letter template to help generate ideas and structure your own document but avoid copying and pasting. Your cover letter needs to be original and tailored to the job you're applying for.

Avril Lee 115 My Street Mytown WX55 1CQ [email protected] 07777999888

Harry Smith Graduate HR director Big Company Ltd Woodcotes Business Park The Midlands MX9 6PQ

5th May 2023

Dear Mr Smith

Re: Logistics graduate scheme

I would like to apply for the logistics track of your graduate training scheme, advertised on the Prospects.ac.uk website. As requested, I am enclosing my CV.

I am in the final year of my geography degree, expecting a 2:1. Always intending to have a career in business, I have taken modules on the geography of business and GIS modelling. My final-year dissertation is on changing patterns in retail. During my degree, I have developed my analytical skills and ability to read, manage and present data. I have also become familiar with a range of business intelligence sources.

As you can see from my CV I have experience in:

• Retail - moving from shelf stacker to checkout operator to team leader in my two years with Fresh Foods. I contributed to the store consistently being in the top five for the region by providing excellent customer service.
• Warehouse operations - picking and packing to meet targets over the busy Christmas period.

I have also:

• Worked in and led teams at Fresh Foods, on course projects and in sports.
• Communicated with colleagues at all levels in retail and warehousing.
• Solved problems as a team leader, ensuring staff cover and dealing with customer complaints.
• Worked flexibly doing both early and late shifts and covering for absence, sometimes at short notice.
• Managed my time when combining study with work and sport.

My semester in Germany exposed me to a different culture and improved my language skills. In addition, my voluntary work with young people has increased my resilience and ability to mix with people from all walks of life.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely

(Sign your name here)

Find out more

• Get more information on cover letters .
• If you're applying for a job that's not advertised take a look at an example speculative cover letter .
• Learn more about the 5 things to avoid when writing a cover letter .

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Home » Cover letter » How to write

How to write a cover letter in 2024

Learn how to easily create a professional cover letter with our step-by-step guide.

Our customers have been hired by: * Foot Note

Learn how to write a cover letter

Did you know that when applying for a job, a CV alone is not enough? You need to have a professional, well-structured cover letter which can convince the recruiter that you are a good fit for the company. In this comprehensive guide you will learn:

With this guide, taking the next step in your career can be easier than you think!

How to write a cover letter: UK Guidelines

These days, having a cover letter is a must. Many job seekers face quite a challenge – how to write a cover letter that will effectively capture a recruiter’s eye, present their achievements in the best light and help them land the job they’re applying for. However, not all of us are expert writers, and there’s nothing wrong with that. The most recommended and proven method of writing a cover letter, which will make things much easier even for those who do not know where to start, is to use a ready-made  cover letter template . Such templates make it possible to quickly write a professional letter with a proper  format  and according to the currently applicable standards.

How to choose your cover letter template

A cover letter template is something that can make your job a lot easier – as long as you choose the right one. What should you focus on when choosing one?

Make sure to read the job description carefully

The choice of cover letter template largely depends on the position you will be applying for.

Make sure the letter is relevant to your industry

Such a cover letter will contain specialised vocabulary and its tone will be appropriate to the profession.

Do your research!

Find out more about the style of the company you are applying to. Check their website or social media profiles. This will help you better understand their policies towards employees. It can give you an idea of whether you might want a modern cover letter template, e.g. one with an interesting layout and a touch of colour, or opt for a subtle classic.

How to structure your cover letter

To the untrained eye, it may seem that a cover letter has no particular structure. However, it’s quite the opposite! Similarly to learning  how to write a CV , it’s worth paying attention to the cover letter standards to maximise your chances of a successful job hunt!

How to format a cover letter in 3 simple steps:

Start with your contact information.

First, enter your contact details: your name, address underneath, your phone number on the next line and your email on the next one. Align it with the edge of the page.

Underneath that, enter the details of the company you’re applying to – also one below the other, aligned to the page edge.

Following the contacts section, you should include your letter, starting with a formal greeting. Typically, a letter will consist of three basic paragraphs:

• an introduction,

Finish your letter with a formal goodbye and sign off with your full name.

How to layout a cover letter

Consider choosing the layout of your letter that matches the industry and management style of the company to which you are applying. You can opt for a classic or modern layout. In our intuitive cover letter builder you will over a dozen of unique cover letter layouts that you can customize at will.

How to set out a cover letter

These foolproof tips will help you create a great, professional cover letter:

How to start a cover letter

If you’re wondering how to open a cover letter, you can use one of the most commonly used formal greetings.

Here’s how to address a cover letter:

• Dear Hiring Manager,
• Dear Hiring Committee,
• Dear [name and surname of the recruiter],

Also used but a bit outdated ways to open a cover letter:

• To whom it may concern,
• Dear Sir or Madam.

Then state the purpose of your letter: include the full name of the job and the company you are applying to. You can also include where you found the advertisement and why it caught your attention. Be concise. The introduction shouldn’t be longer than 3-4 sentences.

What to include in the main section

As you may have guessed, this part of the letter is the most important and the most developed.

It is often divided into two paragraphs:

• in the first paragraph, mention your experience and skills – especially those listed in the job advertisement. Cover letters are often run through special software which compares them with an advertisement according to the presence of so-called keywords.
• in the second part, list your accomplishments or achievements. Be precise. Use figures, they appeal best to the imagination.

Instead of saying:

I increased sales

I increased sales by 8% in the last quarter, i reduced the time needed to complete a task, thanks to my optimisations, the task completion time was reduced by an average of 10 minutes, i prepared a documentation about processes, i prepared a documentation about over 15 processes per week..

Explain why you think you are the right candidate for the job and outline to the recruiter the benefits the company will gain by hiring you.

If you have had an extended break in employment and want to address this in your letter, this is also the place for it. These days, employers don’t look at a gap in your CV as something negative, so you shouldn’t either. Present it in a good light and outline the benefits it brought. Did you take a break to travel? You certainly learned a lot! Did you focus on parenting? Surely organization and creativity are not alien to you!

How to end a cover letter

Let’s take a look at the last paragraph of the cover letter – its conclusion. The tone in which you end your letter will have a huge impact on the impression it makes on the person reading it.

How to finish a cover letter on the right note? Emphasise once again that you are a good fit for the company and hiring you would be a beneficial step for the company.

Follow this up with a time when you can start work and indicate that you are available for an interview.

This section should be a similar length to the introduction to your letter.

Now, let’s move on to how to close a cover letter. In general, you should end your letter with “Yours faithfully” if you don’t include the name of the recipient and with “Yours sincerely” if you do include it.

Keep your conclusion approximately as long as the introduction.

How to sign off a cover letter

Now, let’s move on to how to close a cover letter. In general, you should end your letter with Yours faithfully if you don’t include the name of the recipient and with Yours sincerely if you do include it.

• Dear Hiring Manager
• Dear Hiring Committee
• Dear Sir or Madam
• Dear Recruiting Team
• Yours faithfully,
• Dear Ms. Georgia Smith
• Dear Mr. Sam Marks
• Yours sincerely,

Cover letter writing tips

How long does a cover letter have to be.

Keep your cover letter concise and specific. You should be able to fit it on one page. Your introduction and conclusion should be about 3-4 sentences long each while the main body should have 9-12 sentences. This gives us a 1-3-1 ratio.

How to find who to address cover letter to

If you are determined to address your cover letter to a specific person, read the job advertisement once again. This is where you can find the name of the person in charge of recruitment. Another way is to look at the email address to which you are to send your application. Company emails usually carry the name of the employee in the handle.

On the other hand, if you are not entirely sure who to address your letter to, it is much better to address it, for example, “To the Hiring Professional”, rather than to the wrong person.

How to explain job hopping in cover letter

If you have changed jobs frequently in your career, don’t shy away from addressing this topic because sooner or later, you will be asked about it anyway. Briefly explain why you switched jobs. Keep it professional and elegant, though. Never speak ill of your previous employer.

Change of job is associated with adaptability, versatility and flexibility – and these are rather desirable qualities. Portray your career changes as an opportunity to expand your knowledge and capabilities.

How to show enthusiasm in a cover letter

First of all, be direct – say why you want to work for the company in question. Show that you have done your research and have a good idea of what they do and represent. Let the recruiter know that you are interested in working there and explain why you think you are a good fit.

For example, when applying to Microsoft, you can express your enthusiasm like this:

How to write a cover letter for every situation with examples

These examples will help you write a professional cover letter for any situation.

How to write a good cover letter for a job

To write a good job cover letter, make sure you have a clear understanding of the requirements outlined in the job advertisement. Find out more about the company and the position. When writing, remember to always include all the required sections, i.e:

• introduction,
• conclusion.

Using a suitable  cover letter template  can help you with this. Proofread your letter twice at the end to avoid mistakes.

How to write a cover letter for an internship

Internships are all about willingness to learn, so make sure this comes across in your application letter. Take a look at  cover letter samples  like this one to gauge how to position your qualifications, even if you don’t have relevant work experience. Stand out when you apply by keeping your letter short and professional.

How to write a cover letter with no experience

As with writing a cover letter for an internship, hiring managers want the candidate to show enthusiasm and a good academic record, especially if they are graduates who don’t always have much work experience. When composing one with no previous experience, for example when applying for your  first job , the most important thing is to highlight your strengths. Even though you don’t have a lot of experience, you probably have skills that could be useful for the job. Don’t forget to mention them. Are you a fast learner? That’s important too!

How to write a cover letter for the UK

A UK cover letter isn’t identical to one in other countries. Our templates help you to choose an appropriate design and structure information to meet UK hiring managers’ expectations. Focus on creating a short, well-written summary of why you’re the perfect candidate, drawing attention to your strengths. Avoid sounding boastful by expressing genuine interest in the role and a job interview.

How to write a cover letter for retail

Retail cover letters need to lay information out in a clear, concise manner. This template helps you to build a professional impression without being dull. Use positive language and focus on your strengths. Include a key achievement and back it up with numbers or statistics. Finally, check that your spelling and grammar are on point.

How to write a legal cover letter

Legal cover letters need to be particularly concise and well-structured. A professional  cover letter template  will help you effectively communicate your relevant experience without wasting a single syllable. While your letter should be formal, don’t forget to add a few personal touches that hint at your personality.

How to write a law cover letter

Our law cover letter template will help you to apply for the role you want. It gives you an appropriate layout for your profession, as well as tips on the content you should include. Showcase key skills and achievements, but don’t forget to inject some personality so that they know you’re also a friendly team player.

How to write a cover letter for teaching

Stand out as the perfect candidate for a teaching role by using an appropriate cover letter template. Make sure you’re up front about holding the required qualifications. Give a sense of what you have to offer by sharing your career ambitions and your involvement in extracurricular activities.

How to write a short cover letter

Every cover letter should be short. Recruiters want a concise summary of what you have to offer, and don’t appreciate being overloaded with too many details. If your letter’s longer than 1 A4 page then go through and edit it, step by step, until it’s the recommended length. Our cover letter templates will help you keep it brief.

How to write a professional cover letter

Professional cover letters can be the difference between applying and getting an interview and landing in the discard pile. Choose a simple, visually appealing template, use a formal tone, and keep your letter to a single A2 page. Make sure it works well with your CV as a complete job application, and don’t forget to check its spelling and grammar.

For more examples check out our  Cover Letter examples !

Write your cover letter with our builder:

Now that you know how to write a cover letter, put all that knowledge into practice and create your own professional job application letter. Check out practical  examples , choose from countless unique  formats  and create your cover letter with our intuitive and easy-to-use  Cover Letter builder !

*The names and logos of the companies referred to above are all trademarks of their respective holders. Unless specifically stated otherwise, such references are not intended to imply any affiliation or association with myperfectCV.

11 Cover letter templates with examples

Not sure what type of cover letter is going to catch the eye of hiring managers, so they actually read your CV?

A well-written cover letter can be a game-changer in your job search, so long as you think carefully about what you include.

No need to panic, though.

For an easy win, use one of our 11 impressive cover letter templates, along with inspirational examples and a step-by-step writing guide.

CV templates 

Basic cover letter template

Dear [Recruiter’s name],

I am writing to apply for the [Job title] at [Company name], as advertised on [Website name]. With [Number of years of experience] in [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

During my current job at [Company name], I [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

I am eager to bring my [Mention suitable skill + aspirations] to the [Job title] at [Employer’s name] and I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Kind regards,

[Name] [Phone number] [Email]

Basic cover letter example

Short cover letter template

Hi [Recruiter name],

I’d like to express my interest in the role of [Job title] as advertised on [Website name].

I am currently working in a [Current role] role for [Current employer], where I am responsible for [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

I’m looking for a new challenge that will [Aspirations + mention of suitable skill].

It would be great to hear from you, and I am available to interview at any time.

Short cover letter example

Admin cover letter template

Good morning [Hiring Manager],

I am writing to submit my application for the position of [Role name] at [Company name]. As a passionate and committed individual with [Number of years] of experience and a track record of [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible], I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the continued success of your institution.

I have gained valuable insights into the [Core responsibilities of role + more quantified achievements.] In my current role as [Current role], I have continuously facilitated positive change and enhanced [Company name’s] reputation.

Some notable achievements I would like to mention include [List quantified achievements].

With all my experience and a [Qualification] in [Subject], I hope that you recognise my enthusiasm and will consider me for the position.

Kind regards, [Name] [Phone number] [Email address]

Admin cover letter example

Finance cover letter template

I am excited to apply for the [Job title] at [Company name]. As a results-orientated professional with a track record of [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible], I am confident that my expertise aligns perfectly with the needs of your organisation.

With [Number of years] of experience, I have developed [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

In my current role as a [Current role] at [Current employer], I implemented a [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of further discussing my qualifications, skills, and contributions I will bring as your new [Job title].

Finance cover letter example

Sales cover letter template

I hope you’re well. I am writing to apply for the [Job title] at [Company name]. With [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

I am eager to apply my proactive and goal-orientated approach to drive revenue growth at [Company name]. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience to discuss how my dedication and skills can contribute to the success of your sales team.

Sales cover letter example

Customer service cover letter template

I’d like to apply for the position of [Job title] as advertised on [Website name].

With [Years] of experience in customer-facing positions for leading retail companies, I have gathered extensive customer service skills in [Type of setting].

In my current role with [Company name], I am responsible for [Role responsibilities + quantified achievement if possible].

My role has given me [Aspirations + mention suitable skill].

I believe my skill sets and product knowledge will allow me to fit perfectly with the requirements you are seeking in a candidate, and I am available for an interview at short notice.

Customer service cover letter example

Project management cover letter template

I am interested in applying for the role of [Job title] . My experience in [List core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

I am enclosing my CV for your consideration, which further highlights my experience, which I am positive fully meets the demands of this role.

Project management cover letter example

Education cover letter template

I hope you’re well.

I am writing concerning the advert for a [Job title] at [Name of educational setting]. Over the past [Number of years], I have [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

I am seeking a new opportunity that will allow me to [Aspirations + mention of suitable skill].

I am keen to talk to you more about the job role, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Education cover letter example

Internal promotion cover letter template

Hey [Recruiter name],

I hope you and the team are well! I am thrilled to apply for the promotion to [Job title] of the [Department] team at [Company name], as advertised on [Website name]. With my [Number of years] of service as a [Current role], within the company, supported by [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

As a dedicated member of staff, I am eager to streamline and innovate the administrative operations at [Company name] in this new role. I would love to discuss my vision for this role further in an interview at your discretion.

All the best, [Name] [Phone number] [Email address]

Internal promotion cover letter example

Student cover letter template

Good morning [Recruiter name],

I would like to submit my application for the [Job title] at [Company name], where I believe my skills in [Industry] can make a valuable contribution.

As a highly driven [Core responsibilities of studies + quantified achievement if possible].

I am eager to continue learning and to have the opportunity to work alongside the team at [Employer’s name]. I am available for an interview at your convenience to further discuss my qualifications. Thank you for considering my application.

Student cover letter example

No experience cover letter template

I am an enthusiastic [Job title/student] at [Current employer/School or university name] with excellent [Core skills], seeking to apply for the [Job title] at [Company name].

In my current role as [Current role] at [Current employer], I [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

I am excited to contribute my [Aspirations + mention of suitable skill]. I am available for an interview from [Insert date] and I am eager to discuss how my skills can benefit your company’s success.

Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely, [Name] [Phone number] [Email address]

No experience cover letter example

How to write a cover letter

Here are five steps on how to write a cover letter to ensure you get hiring managers in the UK and beyond to look at your CV .

Include your cover letter within the email or message

When submitting your job application, always include your cover letter within the body of your email or message. Never attached it as a separate document.

“But why?”, you ask.

Well, you should instantly grab the recruiter’s attention the moment they look at your application. If they have to endure the hassle of opening a document, it slows everything down, and they may not even bother.

Here’s how to include your cover letter in the body of your application message:

Tailor your greeting by directly addressing the recruiter

To get your cover letter off to a great start, make a brilliant first impression by using the hiring manager or recruiter’s name.

Avoid sounding overly formal or informal, though.

For instance, you could address the recruiter using:

• Hi [insert recruiter’s name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Skip the conventional “Dear Sir or Madam” unless you’re targeting highly formal companies.

Here are a few tips on how to locate the recruiter’s name:

• Check the job ad – Sometimes, you can find their name and email address within the job advert itself.
• Visit the company website – Look at the “About Us” section to unearth the contact info for the recruitment team or head of department.
• Use LinkedIn – If you’re having a hard time pinning down the specific team and company related to the job opening, a quick search can reveal the person in charge of hiring for that specific job.

If you have no success in finding their name, don’t stress. Just say “Hi” – that’ll more than do the trick. Aim for a greeting that is both professional and welcoming.

Here are some examples of how to address your cover letter if you have trouble finding their name:

Be personable and professional

Your cover letter should be a blend of personality and professionalism .

Coming across as too casual can make you sound a little unprofessional while appearing excessively formal can make you look stiff.

Go for a professional, friendly tone.

Begin with something such as, “I hope you’re well” to bring a personal touch.

Pinpoint your applicable skills

Your cover letter’s purpose? To entice hiring managers to read your CV . To do this, quickly allude to your relevant skills tailored to the job you’re interested in.

Review the job description and note the essential qualifications and skills the recruiter wants.

Concentrate on these skills in your cover letter and tell them why you’re perfect for the role.

This gives recruiters the confidence they need to consider you for the job.

For instance, you could say:

• Finance – “My strategic planning skills allowed me to identify key growth opportunities and revenue drivers, ultimately leading to the impressive revenue increase of over £100 million.”
• Marine engineer – “I excel in the development and implementation of predictive maintenance programs, ensuring equipment reliability and longevity. I implemented a predictive maintenance programme that reduced downtime of critical equipment by 25%, as well as saved £120K+ annually through purchasing supplies from suitable industry vendors.”
• Medical writer – “My capacity to translate complex medical information into clear and accessible content for various audiences is a core skill that has empowered me to produce 15 high-quality educational materials. Moreover, my strong research proficiency was instrumental in increasing audience comprehension and patient satisfaction scores by 30% and 15% respectively.”

Conclude and add a professional signature

Your sign-off must be warm. So, say something like “Best regards” or “Kind regards.” Just be yourself while staying polite.

To add a nice finishing touch to your cover letter , add a professional signature at the very bottom.

Doing so helps the person on the other end know how to reach you and gives your cover letter a professional touch.

Here’s what you need to include in your professional sign-off:

• Your full name – Add your first and last name, like “Jessica Smith”. It’s just there so recruiters know who you are.
• Your phone number – Preferably, put your mobile number in here so recruiters can quickly get hold of you.
• Your email address – This must be a professional email address, like [email protected]. Don’t include an overly casual email – remember, this is a job application.

If you like, you could also include a couple of extra details:

• Your job title – For example, “Administrator” or “Delivery Driver.”
• A link to your LinkedIn – If you use LinkedIn, insert a link to your profile – this is like your professional social media.

Free Cover Letter Examples

See professional cover letter examples for the most popular UK jobs. The sample covering letters have been written by professionals—read them, get inspired, and have your letter ready in minutes.

Our customers were hired by:

Examples of cover letters you can copy, tweak, and make yours

Depending on the source, between 30% and 50% of recruiters will reject your job application if there’s no cover letter included. In other words, a cover letter can double your job-getting chances. So, yes, writing one is a wise choice. But what if you’re not comfortable with writing about your achievements? And what if any attempt at a cover letter ends up feeling inadequate? Worry not. That’s what you’ve got us for. With our expertly crafted cover letter examples for the most popular UK professions, you’ll get ready-to-use introductions, middle paragraphs, and cover letter closings that will help you wow every hiring manager.

The most popular cover letter examples

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Absolutely brilliant service and helping fill in gaps in your CV and cover letter.

How to use cover letter examples?

Your cover letter should be tailored to each job offer you sent it to. That's why when using our cover letter samples, don't blindly copy and paste. Make sure your experience and skills match the job ad, and don't forget to use the right keywords. If you need any help, you can check our full guide on how to write a cover letter . To make your life easier, our cover letter maker comes with pre-written content suggestions. This way, with a few adjustments you can have a cover letter ready in a matter of minutes.

What does a good cover letter include: example

No matter the exact job for which you’re writing your cover letter, the document will have to follow a standard structure—sure, you want to showcase your individuality, but it’s best to keep the layout of your cover letter in line with the general HR rules.

Here are the key elements of every well-written cover letter:

• 1 Heading : ideally, it sould be identical to the one on your resume. Include your full name, job title, and basic contact information.
• 2 Date and addressee’s details : include the date of when you’re writing the letter followed by the hiring manager’s name and physical address. If you don’t know exactly who you’re addressing your cover letter to, just use the company details.
• 3 Salutation : open your cover letter with a formal salutation. “Dear + Ms/Mr + Name + Surname” will do.
• 4 Introductory paragraph : provide a bit of background for why you’re applying for the job, identify the position you’re after and drop in one impressive detail about what you’ve achieved.
• 5 Central paragraphs : explain exactly what you can bring to the company, outline why you’re a good fit, and say what makes you want to join them.
• 6 Closing paragraph : thank them for their time and consideration, include a call to action, say you’re willing to tell them more about your competences during the interview.
• 7 Professional sign-off : use “Sincerely” or a synonym, followed by your full name. Optionally, you can include your contact information in the footer.

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70+ Cover Letter Examples That Will Get You Hired in 2024

Use our cover letter examples to write yours in a few minutes. Learn how to highlight your strengths. Boost your chances of landing an interview.

Example of a cover letter created in our builder:

Browse our collection of free cover letter samples and find the one you need.

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Our CV building app will help you create an impactful cover letter and CV combo in no time.

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Cover Letter Templates for 2024

Click on a cover letter template, fill it online and download in seconds. Build a professional cover letter in a few clicks . Just pick one of 18+ cover letter templates below, add ready-made content and get the job.

Cover Letter Template with a column for contact information

Modern cover letter template with delicate icons for contact information

Creative cover letter template with graphic elements and two columns

Perfect cover letter template with a dash of colour and a structured layout

Sleek cover letter template with a light feel and colour accents

Classic cover letter template in a one column layout

Two column cover letter template with contact information highlighted on the right

Clean cover letter template with plenty of whitespace and a layout that feels complete

Elegant cover letter template with a single column classic feel

Unique cover letter template with your initials on top and icons on the left

Elegant cover letter template with great readability

Two column cover letter template with a neat structure

Modern cover letter template with a clean-cut layout and two columns

Elegant cover letter template with a top-bottom structure and clean sections

Elegant cover letter template with appealing typography and flow

Creative cover letter template with initials as the logo and delicate graphic accents

Simple cover letter template that draws attention to your title and personal story

Traditional cover letter template with minimal design, but a finished feel

Best cover letter templates for any situation

A cover letter for a CV or application is a brief presentation of your experience and skills in narrative form. The purpose of a cover letter is to highlight the most important information from your CV and add extra reasons why you should be hired. It’s about looks and contents. And Zety will help with both—

Professional design

These CV cover letter templates match Zety’s CV templates and give your documents a polished look. Highlight key achievements in bullet points, use colour and style to draw attention to what matters to employers. Writing a cover letter feels like doing homework assignments, but not with Zety—

Ease of use

Fill in any of these professional cover letter format templates with help from our app. Simply tell the wizard a few things about yourself, and get a ready cover letter sample in a few clicks. Stop worrying about every single word you use and focus on what matters: your future job.

These user-friendly cover letter templates will save you hours of painful work. Remember the last sample you downloaded and got stuck filling out? This won’t happen again. Pick a cover letter layout, click a few buttons and you’re done. Download your cover letter template in pdf or Word format.

Confidence boost

Don’t ignore your cover letter. About 20-50% recruiters expect you to write one even if they don’t read it . Writing a cover letter from scratch feels like a chore, but it doesn’t have to. You can create a cover letter for a job of your dreams in minutes. Employers will recognise you for who you are: the ideal candidate.

Proven effectiveness

A Zety CV and a cover letter is your one-two punch that will help you beat the competition. Only 20% of all applications contain cover letters and with Zety you’ll stand out as the best candidate. Creating a cover letter can be simple, fast and is proven to get jobs. It’s surprising how little effort you need.

Why users choose our cover letter templates:

Frequently asked questions about cover letter templates, where can i find a free cover letter template.

Zety offers 18 professional cover letter templates , which you can edit quickly and easily using our cover letter builder . All you have to do is pick a cover letter template you like and fill in the blanks… or, to make things even easier, upload your CV and have our generator write your cover letter for you. Each cover letter design comes with a matching professional CV template , so you can apply for your dream job with a high-end set of documents in a matter of minutes.

What is the recommended UK cover letter format?

Here’s how to format a cover letter in the UK:

• Address your cover letter using a business letter-style heading: your name and contact details, followed by the date of writing and, finally, the name and contact information of the addressee (i.e. the hiring manager or recruiter).
• Left-align everything and use a good, readable font—ideally, the same as your CV font . Use one-inch margins and 1–1.15 line spacing.
• Keep it short: the best length for a cover letter is under one page.

If that sounds like a lot of messing around, keep in mind that the Zety CV builder can take care of the formatting for you , both on your CV and cover letter, with no software or computer skills needed. Visit our blog for more cover letter tips and, if you’re writing your cover letter in the body of an email, check out this guide on the proper email cover letter format .

What should I include in my cover letter?

Writing a cover letter can be tricky, even if you’ve done it before. Here’s what to include in a cover letter to boost your chances of getting hired:

• Your contact details and the recruiter’s details (in a business-style header).
• A professional greeting, ideally using the recruiter’s surname, e.g. Dear Mr Smith . Dear Hiring Manager is a good alternative if you don’t know who’ll read your cover letter.
• A selection of your best professional achievements, made more impactful with numbers and action verbs, e.g. Achieved a 15% boost in productivity .
• A few of your key professional skills relevant to the job ad.
• Your motivation for wanting to join the company, including your shared values or something you like about their profile/methods/product/operations/etc.
• A strong cover letter ending , such as a promise to achieve a specific goal for the company.

And that’s pretty much a complete cover letter. To make sure your CV is up to scratch, too, read this guide on what to include in a CV .

How do you start a cover letter?

We recommend starting strong, with a powerful accomplishment that shows your professional value straight away. For maximum impact, your cover letter opening paragraph could include:

• The position you’re applying for,
• A major professional achievement of yours to catch the reader’s attention,
• A promise to achieve the same and more for the company to which you’re applying.

Make sure to use the new company’s name in the opening paragraph—it shows you care, and that your job application is not just a copy-paste job.

Can I see some cover letter examples?

Sure—you’ll find dozens of cover letter examples for specific professions on our website , entirely for free. You can read a sample letter for your role, copy it, change the details, and use as yours if you want—or simply load it into a Zety cover letter template to take care of formatting and content in one fell swoop. We also offer lots of professional CV examples for various industries and jobs, and short cover letter examples if you’re in a rush. All of our examples are written by Certified Professional Resume Writers, so they’re as high-quality as they come!

Is a simple cover letter template better than a creative one?

For roles where creativity is key, you may want to go with a more colourful, bold, creative job application cover letter template. Still, a basic, simple cover letter template will likely be a better, “safer” choice for most jobs . Remember that no matter what template you choose, your cover letter format (i.e. the order and formatting of paragraphs) should stay the same, and that it’s always best to use matching cover letter and CV templates .

Do I need a different cover letter for every job application?

Ideally, yes. While your cover letter structure shouldn’t change, you should adapt the contents to each job, taking into account the specifics of the role and the company , alongside the requirements outlined in the job ad. Although you’re probably applying for similar positions, each company is likely to have a slightly different approach, values, and skill/experience requirements. Arguably, the point of a cover letter nowadays is to show your motivation to join this particular company and prove you’re the best candidate for them, so it’s unavoidable that to boost your chances, you’ll need to tailor your cover letter each time. To make this easier, the Zety builder offers unlimited cloud storage—so you can copy, edit, and save as many cover letters as you want.

How do I write a cover letter with no work experience?

In the absence of work experience, there are a few cover letter strategies you can use to boost your chances of getting an interview invite:

• Highlight your transferable skills, i.e. skills you’ve picked up elsewhere (during internships, at school, or while practising your hobbies). For example, taking IT at secondary school probably taught you to use MS Office, which is a valuable hard skill in many jobs.
• Focus on your motivation and enthusiasm, proving you’re eager to learn and determined to succeed in this particular role.
• Swap professional achievements for relevant academic ones.

For more details, read our guide on writing a cover letter for an internship and take a look at this graduate cover letter example .

Are Zety cover letter templates free?

The Zety cover letter builder is free to use— you can edit your cover letter and CV as much as you like at no cost . Once you’re happy with the results, it costs £1.79 to download your documents (PDF, Word, and TXT formats are available). This fee gives you two-week access and during this time, you can edit and download your documents as many times as you want.

Try Zety's professional cover letter builder now

How to Write a UK CV (Tips + Example)

Our customers have been hired at: * Foot Note

According to Tony Wilson, director at the Institute for Employment Studies, the UK has seen a sharp rise in unemployment in 2024. Indeed, redundancies are rising, inflation remains high, and the unemployment rate is expected to be at 4.4% and remain there through 2025. 

As the labor market in the UK has grown cooler, competition between job seekers has intensified. You need the proper tools to get ahead in today’s job market, and we’re here to equip you with the best UK CV format. 

In this guide, we show you how to write an impressive UK CV, provide professional UK CV examples, and offer tips for perfecting your CV.

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 UK CV Examples for top jobs

Before we dive into the essential elements of a great UK CV, take a moment to review this UK CV example, or browse our collection of CV examples for more inspiration. 

How to choose a UK CV format

The UK CV is similar to the US resume, except the UK CV allows for more pages and information. And while the US resume is often written in one of three resume formats , a UK CV typically relies on two formats: skills-based and reverse-chronological. Here’s how to choose the best CV format for a UK job application.

Reverse-chronological CV

The reverse-chronological CV format, also known as the chronological CV format, is the most widely used UK CV format and one that recruiters and hiring managers recognize as standard. Why? Because it’s easy for ATS programs and employers to scan.

This CV format emphasizes your work history, so it’s the better option if you have at least one year of professional experience and want to display your work accomplishments .  

Skills-based CV 

This UK CV format focuses on your job-relevant skills . Create categories and under them For example, if you are a chef, you might add culinary arts to your skill set and then describe the various culinary arts skills you have mastered, such as food preparation, cleanliness, knife skills, butchery, sauteeing and sauces.  

Choose this resume format if you are applying for your first job, changing your career or have been out of work for a long time. 

Ready to write your CV ? Start with one of our expertly designed CV templates . Our ATS-friendly templates have been designed to present your job qualifications clearly and professionally — with style. 

What to include in a UK CV

Show off your professionalism right from the get-go with an eye-catching header. Include your name, phone number, email address and professional website, portfolio, or networking profile if you have them. 

Professional statement

Your professional statement is your chance to introduce yourself to potential employers. In three to five sentences, tell them who you are and why you’re the best person for the job. Use keywords from the job description to grab the hiring manager’s attention, paying close attention to your job-relevant skills. 

For example:

“Passionate educator with six years of dedicated teaching experience across various grade levels. Proven track record of fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment that engages students and enhances their academic growth. Proficient in curriculum development, lesson planning, and implementing innovative teaching strategies to meet diverse learning styles. Dedicated to inspiring a love for learning and empowering students to reach their full potential academically, socially, and emotionally.”

Work history

If you are using the chronological UK CV format, hiring managers will scour your  employment history for details about what you’ve done over the course of your 

career. Highlight your achievements — not your responsibilities — to stand out.

To display your work experience, add the employers you worked for, their location and the dates you worked for them. Under each role, add three bullet points with your quantifiable achievements.

In three to five bullet points, describe your accomplishments for each job, tailoring them to the job description. Combine your work accomplishments with action verbs for impact.

Registered Nurse, Premier Hospital, Anytown, U.K. January 2018 – Present

• Implemented evidence-based nursing interventions resulting in a 20% reduction in patient readmission rates within the surgical unit.
• Led a multidisciplinary team in developing and implementing a new protocol for post-operative pain management, resulting in a 30% decrease in opioid use among patients while maintaining high levels of pain control.
• Conducted patient education sessions on wound care and infection prevention, which resulted in a 25% decrease in post-operative wound infections.
• Achieved a 95% patient satisfaction rating through attentive care, clear communication, and compassionate bedside manner.
• Collaborated with physicians and allied health professionals to streamline patient care processes, reducing average patient discharge time by 15%.

Hiring managers and recruiters seek job candidates with a mix of hard and soft skills for their industry. 

Hard skills show potential employers that you have the knowledge it takes to perform the essential functions of the job. They are specific to a role and include aptitudes such as data analysis, spreadsheets and writing. 

Soft skills tell employers that you have the personality traits and qualities to help you stand out from others with similar technical aptitude. Examples include verbal communication, active listening and adaptability. 

Education is vital for a UK CV, no matter how long you’ve worked. On the chronological UK CV format, place your education section under your skills section. To list your education credentials, start with your highest level of education and work backward if you’ve received more than a degree. Add the school’s name, location and graduation date. Include a bullet list of relevant coursework and awards or honors you received at each institution. 

For example: 

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

University Name, City, State

Graduated: May 20XX

Relevant Coursework:

• Data Structures and Algorithms
• Object-Oriented Programming
• Software Engineering Principles
• Programming Completion Award of Excellence

If you’re still completing your education, include it and add “In progress” or the date you expect to complete your studies. Include a bullet list of job-relevant courses you have taken. 

Optional sections

Adding optional sections to your UK CV can help you shine. Since it’s acceptable to use a two-page UK CV format, consider adding one or more of the following bonus sections to your CV if you have room:

• Volunteer work demonstrates your passion, values and commitment, highlights your transferable skills , and fills gaps in your employment. 
• Awards distinguish you as an exceptional job candidate, indicate work ethic, and highlight job-relevant strengths and achievements. 
• Professional memberships indicate your commitment to your industry and professional development and add credibility to your UK CV. 
• Hobbies provide a glimpse into your personality, show you’re well-rounded and make you a more interesting job candidate. 
• Publications and presentations indicate expertise in your field, set you apart from other job candidates, and enhance your credibility.

Modify your US CV for a UK job

If you already have a US CV, you don’t have to start a new CV from scratch to apply for a job in the United Kingdom. Use our CV Maker and follow these tips to turn your US CV into an impressive UK CV. 

• Try UK NARIC (National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom) to find the UK equivalents for your US educational and professional credentials.
• Re-craft your CV to align with a UK CV format. Shorten your US CV to two pages, keeping the critical elements intact and tailoring them to match the job you seek. 
• Localize your CV. Use business and industry terminology typical for the United Kingdom and UK units of measure, spelling and grammar conventions. 

Modify your UK CV format for the US job market

If you are in the United Kingdom and applying for work in the United States, follow these tips to adapt your UK CV to match the US equivalent and increase your chances of getting your dream job. 

• Use a credential evaluation service, like the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) to find the UK equivalents for your US educational and professional qualifications.
• Use US terminology, spelling and grammar in your CV. For example, use “ZIP code” instead of “postcode,” “program” instead of “programme,” and month-day-year for the date. 
• Include your work authorization status. If you require work authorization to work in the US, include your work authorization status in your resume so employers know you are eligible to work there.

Tips to write an effective UK CV

• Choose a UK CV format that fits your career stage.
• Use a CV template to ensure your UK CV is formatted correctly and easily read. 
• Customize your CV for every job you apply to. 
• Include resume keywords throughout your CV to ensure it’s ATS-friendly and catches the hiring manager’s attention. 
• Avoid graphics and personal information such as your age and home address.
• Proofread your UK CV. Use spell-checkers, online tools and another pair of trusted eyes.
• Include a cover letter to complement your UK CV. 

 Key takeaways

• A UK CV is similar to the US resume, except the UK CV allows for more pages and information
• The first step to creating an impressive UK CV is choosing the right UK CV format for your career stage.
• Tailor your UK CV to the job description to emphasize your qualifications.
• Spotlight your measurable achievements instead of your job duties.
• Ensure your UK CV is ATS-friendly by using keywords from the job description and formatting your CV correctly.

Resources for your UK resume format

• CV vs. Resume: What’s the Difference?  
• 100 Essential Technical Skills 
• How to Write an Impressive Letter of Intent
• How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?

How can I navigate the UK job market as a foreigner? 

Navigating the UK job market as a foreigner can be challenging, but with the right approach and preparation, you can increase your chances of success. 

Here are some steps you can take:

• Understand visa requirements: Ensure you understand the visa requirements for UK work. Depending on your nationality and circumstances, you may need a work visa or other permits to work in the country legally. Visit the UK government’s website or consult an immigration advisor for the most up-to-date information.
• Research the job market: Familiarize yourself with the UK job market by researching industries, companies and job opportunities. Identify sectors that are in demand and align with your skills, qualifications and experience.
• Tailor your CV and cover letter: Adapt your CV/resume and cover letter to the UK format and standards. Highlight relevant experience, skills and qualifications that are sought after in the UK job market. Customize your application for each position you apply for, emphasizing how your background makes you a good fit for the role.
• Utilize online job portals: Search for job vacancies in the UK using online job portals and professional networking sites such as LinkedIn, Indeed, Reed, and Totaljobs. Create a strong online profile and actively network with professionals in your industry.
• Consider recruitment agencies: Recruitment agencies can help match you with suitable job opportunities. Research reputable agencies that specialize in your field and register with them to access their job listings and services.

How do I address gaps in my employment on a UK CV?

Addressing gaps in your employment history on a UK CV requires transparency and strategic communication. Here are five ways to effectively handle employment gaps:

• Be honest: Always be truthful about the reasons for any gaps in your employment history. Attempting to conceal or misrepresent the gaps may raise red flags during recruitment.
• Provide a brief explanation: Include a concise explanation for the gap in your CV. Whether it was due to personal reasons, further education, traveling, or career transition, briefly mention the reason for the gap without going into excessive detail.
• Highlight relevant activities: If you were engaged in any activities during the gap period relevant to the job you’re applying for, such as freelancing, volunteering, or taking courses, be sure to include them on your CV. Highlighting these activities demonstrates that you remained productive and proactive during your gap period.
• Focus on your skills and achievements: Emphasize transferable skills, experiences or achievements gained during the gap period relevant to the position you’re applying for. This could include developing new skills, undertaking projects or acquiring certifications.
• Use a skills-based UK CV format: If your traditional chronological UK CV format emphasizes the gap too prominently, consider using a skills-based format. This format focuses more on your skills and accomplishments than your chronological work history, allowing you to downplay employment gaps.
• Address employment gaps in your cover letter: If you feel your CV doesn’t adequately explain the employment gap, you can address it briefly in your cover letter. Use the cover letter to provide context and reassure the employer of your commitment and suitability for the role.

What sections should be included in a UK CV?

The standard UK CV format usually has two pages. However, for professionals with extensive experience, such as academics or senior executives, a CV may extend to three or even four pages.

A UK CV format typically includes the following sections:

• Personal details: Name, contact information and professional profiles. 
• A professional statement: Summarize who you are and what you offer. 
• Work experience: List previous employment, including job titles, dates and brief descriptions of responsibilities and achievements.
• Education: Add details of academic qualifications, including degrees, certifications and any relevant training.
• Skills: Highlight job-relevant skills and competencies. 
• Additional sections: Optional sections include hobbies and interests, professional memberships, languages or volunteer experience.

What is the preferred layout and design for a UK CV format?

A UK CV should have a clean and professional layout, with clear headings and bullet points for easy readability. Use a legible font such as Arial or Times New Roman, with 10-12 points font size. Avoid using decorative fonts or excessive graphics, and maintain consistent formatting throughout the document.

Should I include a photo on my UK CV?

We advise that you do not include a photo on a UK CV unless specifically requested by the employer or if you’re applying for a role where appearance is relevant, such as modeling or acting. Including a photo may introduce bias and is not recommended unless explicitly required.

How we reviewed this article

Since 2013, we have helped more than 15 million job seekers. We want to make your career journey accessible and manageable through our services and Career Center’s how-to guides and tips. In our commitment to bring you a transparent process, we present our Editorial Process .

• Expatica. Article. No Author. Applying for jobs in the UK: CV and interview tips
• LinkedIn. Article. Oluwaseun, ‘Gabby’ A. How to Write a UK CV Format
• The Guardian. Article Elliott, Larry. UK’s weak economy is taking a toll on its labour market
• The Guardian. Article. No Author. UK unemployment rate leaps to 4.2% amid fears of job cuts
• SHRM. Article. Stack, Chris. Crossing the Atlantic: A Comparison of US and UK Employment Concepts.

Rate this article

4.9/5 stars with 445 reviews

Kellie Hanna, CPRW

Career advice expert.

Kellie is a Certified Professional Resume Writer with 20+ years of experience in digital media and is passionate about helping job seekers navigate their careers. She earned a B.A. in English and writing from Temple University.

‡ Results derived from a study responded by 1000 participants of which 287 created a resume online.

*The names and logos of the companies referred to above are all trademarks of their respective holders. Unless specifically stated otherwise, such references are not intended to imply any affiliation or association with MyPerfectResume.

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Guide for Resumes & Cover Letters

FlexJobs has been the go-to platform for professional-level, legitimate remote and flexible jobs since 2007. Over time, we’ve learned a lot about writing cover letters and resumes that can help you land a coveted interview spot. We've also learned a variety of techniques to help you impress the hiring manager during an interview, and we want to share that knowledge with you.

Throughout this guide, we’re going to give you the tools you need to create cover letters and resumes that get results, tips that will help you ace your interviews, and information on what to do after the interview to help you land the job!

• Proven strategies for what to include in cover letters
• Formatting for various resume styles and types
• A variety of interviewing techniques that impress
• How to best present employment gaps

To receive this free guide by email, please tell us a little about you in the form below:

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