job application letter template word

Land the job with cover letter templates

Show hiring managers why you're the perfect job candidate with professional, customizable cover letter templates. find the perfect cover letter template for any industry or career path..

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Stand out from other job applicants with free, professional cover letter templates. Cover letters are a perfect complement to your resume and provide an effective opportunity to show your personality and enthusiasm for a position. Focus on writing a compelling cover letter and let a professionally designed template do the rest.

These free cover letter templates are perfect for any stage of your career, whether you're looking to land an internship or your dream job. If you're applying for a corporate position, you may want to opt for a simple cover letter template. There are a variety of other cover letter designs available, from basic cover letter templates to creative cover letter templates.

Each of these cover letter templates is customizable in Word , so you can add your own text, change design elements, and more. Print out your cover letter or download it for free to use for online job applications. Once you've customized the perfect cover letter, explore resume templates that will match your cover letter design, or download free business cards for your next networking event.

Sample Cover Letter for Any Job Application

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Get this free cover letter sample for any job in Word format now

This free sample cover letter for job applications is ready to download in Word format. A well-written cover letter introduces you to potential employers, providing a glimpse into your personality, skills, and qualifications. This template helps you do that and more. Download it now!

• File format:  Word (Microsoft)
• File size:  79 KB
• Ready-to-use:  fast, easy, and free

According to a recent survey, 83% of recruiters agree that a cover letter with your job application is crucial even today. This official document should not be viewed as an obligation , but rather as a chance to showcase your candidacy to the hiring team.

If you’ve never included a cover letter with your job applications, you should start doing it now.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to writing a persuasive cover letter for job application . Keep reading, as we’ve also included a job application cover letter template to make it easy for you to get started.

Cover Letter example for Job Application (Text Format)

Full Name Address Phone Number Email Address

Hiring Manager’s Full Name Job Title Company Name Company Address

To: Hiring Manager Full Name, Date

Dear Mr./Ms./Mx. Hiring Manager Last Name,

I am writing to express my sincere interest in the (Job Title) position at (Company Name), as posted on (platform where you found the job posting). Qualified with a Bachelor’s degree in (your field) and 6 years of hands-on experience, I am confident that I can positively contribute to your team and drive exceptional results.

In my previous role at (Previous Company), I successfully (mention a key achievement or responsibility relevant to the job you’re applying for).

Furthermore, my (X) years tenure at (Previous Company) has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of (Industry/Field) best practices. Throughout this remarkable journey, I showcased my strategic thinking and the ability to deliver concrete results by leveraging strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

In terms of soft skills, my excellent communication and interpersonal abilities have fostered positive working relationships with colleagues and clients alike. My adaptability and resilience have been crucial in navigating complex projects and overcoming challenges, ensuring successful outcomes. Additionally, I am proficient in using (Software or tools), enhancing my efficiency and productivity.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my skills and experience to (Company Name) and contribute to the continued success of your team. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing further how my qualifications align with the needs of your organization.

Please feel free to contact me at (your phone number) or (your email address) to schedule a convenient time for an interview.

Sincerely, Leah Richards

6 Steps To Crafting a Winning Cover Letter for Job Application

Recruiters are busy individuals, so they appreciate cover letters that are clear , structured, and, of course, purposeful. To ensure your application doesn’t end up in the reject pile, follow the steps below to craft a winning cover letter for job application:

1. Research the job you are applying for

Before you begin your job application cover letter, research the company or industry you are applying to. Every job has different requirements; to get noticed by recruiters, it’s crucial to comply with those conditions .

Here are a few things you need to research before starting with your job application cover letter:

• Job requirements : Read the job description to understand what recruiters seek. Highlight the essential skills or qualities so you can later integrate them into your cover letter.
• Know the company you’re applying to : Skim through the firm’s website to learn about its long-term goals and culture. If the organization you’re applying to lacks social media handles, you can inquire about them with your friends or colleagues as well.
• Identify the hiring manager’s name : Addressing the recruiters by their full name indicates that you have invested time to find out who will read your cover letter. To discover the hiring manager’s name, you can refer to the job description, search the company on LinkedIn, or even explore the company’s website.

2. Outline sections of your cover letter for job application

Breaking down your cover letter into sections makes it easier for recruiters to follow . It minimizes confusion and lets them quickly locate key information, such as your qualifications, experiences, and goals.

A compelling cover letter for job application would typically contain several sections, including:

• Comprehensive header containing your and the employer’s contact information.
• Formal salutations or greetings.
• Catchy introductory paragraph.
• Middle body: containing qualifications, skills, and experiences.
• Closing paragraph: to thank the recruiter for their time.

3. Sell your abilities in your job application cover letter

When showcasing your skills in a cover letter, it’s crucial to go beyond mere statements and provide concrete evidence to demonstrate your abilities.

An effective approach is identifying the key skills mentioned in the job description. Additionally, select specific examples from your previous experiences that align with the identified accomplishments to strengthen your stance. You can draw on instances from your previous jobs, academic projects, or even extracurricular activities.

Moreover, if you aim to add credibility to your achievements, consider quantifying them . For instance, if you improved a process, mention the percentage of improvement.

Here’s an excellent example of how to utilize the above teachings in a job application cover letter:

“ In my previous role, I spearheaded weekly team meetings, improving communication flow and collaboration among team members. This resulted in a 20% increase in project efficiency, showcasing my ability to convey complex ideas in a clear and concise manner. “

4. Mention your hard and soft skills

Your skills are valuable assets that set you apart from other candidates . Incorporating your expertise into your cover letter clearly demonstrates how you can contribute to the company’s success.

A persuasive job application cover letter example will have the below essential technical skills:

• Proficiency in programming languages.
• Data analysis.
• Know-how of Microsoft Word Suite.
• Graphic Designing.

In addition to hard skills, your soft skills also play a significant role in conveying your effectiveness in the workplace to recruiters.

As you craft your job application cover letter, consider emphasizing the following soft skills:

• Ability to convey information clearly, both verbally and in writing.
• Open to collaborating with others to achieve common goals.
• Flexible and open to change in the working environment.
• Capability to identify challenges and develop practical solutions.

5. Prove your enthusiasm to the employers

Highlighting your accomplishments and skills is crucial for a job-winning cover letter . However, another critical element in establishing credibility is expressing enthusiasm to potential employers using impactful action words.

Clearly state why you are excited about the role. Is it the chance to work with a talented team or the alignment between your skills and the job requirements? Be specific .

Here’s an example to make it more clear:

“I am genuinely excited about the prospect of contributing my skills and passion to ABC Company. I am confident that my software development and my enthusiasm for driving innovative solutions make me an ideal fit for your team.”

Moreover, you can also mention specific achievements or projects of the company that inspire you. This demonstrates that you’ve researched and are genuinely interested in the organization.

For instance, you can add:

“ The innovative projects undertaken by ABC Company, particularly the groundbreaking development of the XYZ platform, resonate deeply with my career aspirations. “

6. Close your job application cover letter with the appropriate CTA

Ending your cover letter with a compelling Call to Action (CTA) is crucial in expressing your eagerness for further discussion. Consider the following steps when crafting the ending paragraph of your job application cover letter:

• Express gratitude : Start by thanking the recruiter for their time and consideration. A simple “ Thank you for your consideration ” is a polite way to express appreciation.
• Restate your interest : Remind the recruiters that you’re genuinely interested in the job by highlighting how your skills align with what they seek.
• Showcase eagerness to discuss things further : Clearly express your readiness to discuss your qualifications and skills by providing your contact information.

For instance, you can mention:

“I am eager to further discuss how my skills and experiences align with (Company Name)’s goals. Please feel free to contact me at [your phone number] or [your email address] to schedule a convenient time for an interview.”

• Conclude with a formal sign-off : Finally, conclude your job application cover letter with a formal salutation such as “ Sincerely, ” followed by your full name.

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Cover Letter for Job Application Key Takeaways

• Research the company you’re applying to before crafting your cover letter.
• Divide your cover letter into five sections: header, salutation, introductory and middle paragraph, and closing body.
• Instead of mentioning your abilities, sell them to the recruiters using compelling words .
• Constantly restate your enthusiasm for the role throughout your job application cover letter.
• Conclude your cover letter by thanking the hiring manager and providing your contact information for further discussions .

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Free Cover Letter Templates for Microsoft Word

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Tips for Writing an Interview-Winning Cover Letter

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A good cover letter can mean the difference between catching the hiring manager’s attention and languishing in job search limbo. But many job seekers find it hard to stare down that blank page. How do you summarize your most important qualifications in a way that makes it clear that you’re the best candidate for the job? Cover letter templates can help.

A cover letter template provides a "fill-in the-blank" format. You can use it to create your own letter to send with your resume when you apply for a job.

Using a template saves you a few steps and helps you structure your letter in a professional way.

Free Microsoft cover letter templates are available online from Microsoft Office Online, as a download for Microsoft Word users, or are available within your Word program.

Note that not all templates may work with all versions of Word, so check before you download. There will be a message next to the download button advising if there are restrictions.

Not a Microsoft user? Google Docs also has  free template samples  available for letters and resumes. Using any of these templates can help you to feel confident that you are properly writing and  formatting your cover letter .

Free Microsoft Word Cover Letter Templates

There are a variety of templates available for Microsoft Word. Template options include  general cover letters  and both job- and career-specific cover letter samples. For example, there are cover letter templates for professionals, temporary workers, and candidates who are sending in their resumes unsolicited.

Microsoft Word also offers a variety of different cover letter template designs, with resume templates to match. Note that if you choose one of these fancier template designs, you’ll want to choose a resume template to match.

Be consistent in your application materials, whether it’s matching your cover letter to your resume or choosing a font or format. That way, hiring managers can focus on your work experience—not your stylistic choices.

Access Cover Letters From Your Computer

Open Microsoft Word, then click on:

Then, search for online templates by typing your keywords (e.g., “cover letter”) in the field provided. You can also click on the "Resumes and Cover Letters" category to get more options. Review the available options and choose the design you like best.

If you don’t own a copy of Microsoft Office or a subscription to Microsoft 365, you can still access  cover letter templates . These templates are free and editable online.

Visit the  Microsoft Cover Letter Templates  website, browse the cover letter templates, then click on the title to preview the sample. You'll need to sign up for a free account to edit the document.

Once you find a template you like, click Edit In Browser, then follow the instructions to customize and save your cover letter. There are also sets, which include matching resumes and cover letters, available to use.

Use the Template to Create a Customized Cover Letter

Once you have downloaded or opened  a cover letter template file , type over the text in the file to create your own  personalized cover letter .

The template will include all the relevant information that you need to include in your document. Simply change the generic version to include your personal and professional information.

It's a good idea to include additional details about your qualifications and experience. Take the time to  match your qualifications to the job description . Include  keywords related to your skills and achievements.

To  customize your cover letter  further, look for a contact person at the company, ideally the hiring manager or HR contact, and address the letter to this person. If you have an employee contact at the company who is willing to refer you, be sure to mention them in the first paragraph of your cover letter. Employee referrals carry a lot of weight with hiring managers.

Double-check to make sure there is none of the template information left in your final saved version. Finally, carefully proofread for grammar and typographical errors before saving and sending your cover letter.

To avoid sending a blank template or the wrong version of your cover letter,  choose a file name  that’s easy to remember. It should always include your name and may also contain the name of the position for which you’re applying. 

Avoid version numbers and cutesy nicknames when choosing a file name for your resume.

• Send one.  Even when an employer does not directly ask for one, be sure  always to send a cover letter . The only time you don’t want to send one is when the job listing says not to.
• Review examples . Review cover letter examples and tips for how to write a cover letter , so yours makes the best impression.
• Customize each letter.  It might seem tedious, be it is important to  customize each cover letter  to fit the specific job you are applying for. It will make your letter stand out.
• Highlight relevant qualifications.  In your cover letter, address one or two skills or qualifications that you have that match the job description. Provide a specific example of a time you demonstrated each of these qualifications. These examples will make your cover letter different from your resume, which is important.
• Explain any potential issues.  You can use your cover letter to go into detail about something in your resume that needs explaining. For example, a cover letter is a good place to talk about a  career shift  or  explain an extended gap in employment .
• Carefully edit your letter.  Be sure to edit each cover letter before sending it thoroughly. Consider asking a friend or family member, or a  career counselor , to read over your cover letter.

More Templates for Resumes and Letters

Microsoft letter templates are available as a free download for Microsoft Word users or are available within your Word program, to use to create a variety of letters. There are letter templates for cover letters,  resignation letters ,  reference letters , thank you letters, interview letters, and a variety of business letters.

Additionally,  Microsoft resume templates  are available as a free download for Microsoft Word users to use to create a resume. Microsoft Word resume options include basic resumes, job-specific resumes, and career-specific resumes.

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Free Word Cover Letter Templates

Enhance your job application with our exclusive collection of Word cover letter templates. These professionally designed cover letter templates for Word are user-friendly and customizable to fit your unique career story. We craft each template in Microsoft Word .docx format to ensure ease of editing and compatibility.

The cover letter templates available on this page are free to download and designed to complement our wide range of Word resume templates . This means you can create a cohesive and professional application package with matching designs. With our cover letter templates for Word, you can stand out in the competitive job market. Download your preferred template today and start crafting a compelling cover letter that aligns with your professional aspirations.

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Cover Letter Templates by Profession

Here you can find cover letter templates designed for specific professions. If you are looking for more examples take a look at our inventory of cover letter examples by profession.

Other Cover Letter Formats Available

We have got you covered if you require cover letter templates in a file format other than Word.

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Do I Need a Cover Letter?

Cover letters enable you to explain things you may not be able to in the resume, for example to explain a gap in work history, or your reason for a sudden career change, or if you have any connections to the company and need to name drop.

If you want to be the chosen one for the job you’re applying for, make sure to always keep in mind the following: crafting a personalized cover letter tailored to the company’s needs is crucial. Trust me, it will make you stand out from the crowd and increase your chances of landing that dream job!

Why Choose Our Word Cover Letter Templates?

Choosing our cover letters offers several advantages that can significantly enhance your job application process. Firstly, these templates are professionally designed, ensuring that your cover letter will have a polished and sophisticated appearance.

Another key benefit is the ease of customization. Our user-friendly cover letter templates allow you to modify various elements like color schemes, fonts, and layout to fit your personal style while maintaining a professional look. This flexibility ensures that your cover letter will be both unique and relevant to the position you are applying for.

In addition, these templates are designed to complement our range of Word resume templates, providing a cohesive and coordinated application package. This consistency in design between your cover letter and resume can demonstrate your attention to detail and organizational skills, traits highly valued by employers.

Finally, our cover letter templates for Word are easy to download and edit. They are compatible with Microsoft Word, a widely used and familiar software, which makes the process of editing and personalizing your cover letter straightforward, even for those with basic computer skills.

By choosing our Word cover letter templates, you’re equipping yourself with a tool that enhances your ability to present a professional, customized, and coherent job application, increasing your chances of making a strong impression on potential employers.

How to Create a Unique Cover Letter by Using Template?

Creating a unique cover letter using a Word cover letter template is a straightforward yet creative process that begins with selecting the right template. Opt for a template that aligns with your industry and professional level, and ensure it has a matching cover letter template to maintain consistency in design and formatting.

Once you’ve chosen the template, start personalizing it. The key to a standout cover letter is making it uniquely yours. Edit the color scheme, fonts, and layout to reflect your personal brand while keeping it professional.

Next, focus on the content. Tailor your cover letter to the specific job and company you’re applying for. Use the template as a guide, but ensure your personality and career achievements shine through. Highlight relevant experiences, skills, and why you are the ideal candidate for the role. The goal is to make a compelling case for why you’re a great fit, using clear, concise, and engaging language.

Finally, proofread your cover letter thoroughly. A well-designed cover letter can lose its effectiveness if it contains typos or grammatical errors. Consider getting a second pair of eyes to review it for errors and to provide feedback on the overall flow and impact of your letter.

By carefully selecting and customizing your Word cover letter template and focusing on writing your cover letter , you can create a unique cover letter in Word that not only complements your resume but also captures the attention of potential employers.

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Application Letter Templates in Word

Create Professional Application Letters for Your Job Application to Pair with Your Resume and Covering Letter by Browsing through Template.Net for Free Yet Professional Designs. The Site Offers Simple, Creative, and Modern Application Letters with Numerous Examples Covering Various Professional Fields Suited Best for Teachers, Clerks, and Accountants Alike.

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Do you want to ensure you set an excellent first impression when applying for a job, a scholarship, or a loan? Fret not for we have professionally made Application Letter Templates in Microsoft Word that you can easily use. The professionally-written contents and comprehensive format will help you convey a coherent and clear explanation of your purpose. Doing so will surely encourage your recipient to give you positive feedback. Since our templates are available in Microsoft Word (.docx) format, you can easily replace the highlighted texts with your information. Download our Ready-Made Application Letter Templates in Microsoft Word and create a great first impression. 

How To Create An Application Letter In Word?

In a job application, an application letter or a cover letter briefly describes your personal information and qualifications. When you apply for a job, you don't just bring your resume with you. You should also bring your application letter. The letter is like a summary of all the details you wrote in your resume. Thus, an application letter can also be an overview of your resume. With that said, it's best to ensure that your application letter explains how deserving you are to be part of a successful team.

To guide you in writing an impressive application letter, here are tips for teaching you how to do it using MS Word.

1. List Your Requirements And Skills

Before you write your application letter using MS Word, make a two-column sheet. Then, list both the requirements and your skills or any other qualifications. Afterward, compare your skills with the indicated job requirements. Always remember that you have a broad skill set. You can sing, write, read, speak, calculate, etc. However, you're only meant to pick the best ones. In which case, you'll need to determine the appropriate ones. The appropriate skills or qualifications you should include are those that match the requirements. Doing so is useful when you're applying for a job. Feel free to refer to our list templates to guide you accordingly.

2. Lay Out Personal Details Completely

Make sure to place your personal information at the top-most part of your application letter. Your personal information includes your complete name, your specific address, phone number, email address, own website, and your job site (LinkedIn or Mynimo) profile. Since you want to make it easy for the employer to contact you, then make sure you indicate your complete personal details. For more references, take a look at our resume templates and learn how to lay your personal details down. 

3. Determine Your Format 

There are several examples of business letter formats such as full-block, modified-block, semi-block, etc. The full-block form has no indentions while the semi-block style has indentions. A full-block style is where you align all the details and sections to the left. On the other hand, the modified-block style and semi-block style does not indent some details and parts to the left. The modified-block and semi-block format make your letter look neat and organized. However, a full-block style makes a smooth eye-scanning for your readers. 

4. Write An Engaging First Paragraph

Especially when you're a fresh graduate who's applying for a job, make sure to write an engaging first paragraph. Be reminded that hiring managers will scan your job application letter and quickly decides whether it's for trash or keeps. Whether you're applying for a summer job, internship, or regular employment, you should also make sure that all paragraphs in your application letter are engaging. For you to make a persuasive first paragraph, state your excitement for the job offer. Then, be specific with the things that attracted you to the job. Also, tell the hiring manager that you're not just familiar with the work, but also highlight how deserving you are. 

5. Explain How You Can Be An Asset

Always answer the hiring manager's question, "What's in it for me?" You should know that there is a reason for the job vacancy and that there is a problem that needs to be solved. You should also express that you are willing to solve the problem. In addition to your skills, include your achievements and relevant work experience. If possible, include any leadership involvements. 

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Simple cover letter templates

Finish your application and get hired with ease. Our simple templates are the right balance of attractive and functional design.

Reviewed by the community. Trusted by professionals

The perfect simple cover letter template to get the job done.

Who ever said simple was a bad thing? Sometimes a basic design that’s both straightforward and classy is just what you need to get your application finished and in the hiring manager’s inbox. After all, you can’t get hired if you don’t submit your materials. Our simple cover letter templates are perfect for the moments when speed and ease count for everything.

One of the biggest advantages of simple cover letter templates is their versatility. Whether you’re a high school student looking for your first job, a seasonal employee or skilled professional in a trade industry, a simple cover letter template keeps the focus on you, your abilities and experiences.

When to pick a simple job application letter template

There are dozens of instances when a simple job application letter template is the best choice. When applying to multiple positions at similar types of companies, in retail for example, you’ll want a job application letter that you can put together and edit quickly. These templates are perfect for when the content of your job application letter should be the star of the show.

That’s not to say that a simple job application letter lacks style. On the contrary, its strengths lie in its ability to highlight your skills and achievements without calling too much attention to itself. This collection of templates are elegant and timeless, meaning the cover letter you create today will look its best even in future applications.

Explore why a good resignation letter is important and how to write it, and check out our free resignation letter examples.

Top 5 why choose a simple cover letter for a resume

• This is your first cover letter and you want to keep the format simple
• You’re aiming to keep the focus on your letter’s writing and content
• You appreciate classic design that works well for a variety of positions
• You work in a skills-based industry where no-frills formatting is preferred
• You need to create a cover letter quickly and easily

What makes a basic or simple application letter

A basic or simple application letter doesn’t get bogged down by the details. It remains classy and classic by keeping the focus on the important stuff – your strengths and abilities. Our basic and simple application letter templates help you to achieve this goal by serving as a blank canvas for your personal expression and perspectives.

One mistake many applicants make is writing with too much professional jargon or overly complex grammar. Just like your template, it’s OK to keep your writing simple and effective. Don’t be afraid to capture your natural tone of voice.

In order to make your basic application letter stand out, you should use emotive language and strong action verbs to bring your anecdotes and experiences to life. It’s also important to keep your letter concise and focused on the key qualities that make you a great fit for the position. With an application letter or resume , there’s no need to over-complicate the process – it’s all about writing a letter that gets you hired!

Free simple cover letter template – download as PDF or Word file

At Resume.io, our mission is to help you land the job you’re after without wasting precious time and energy. That’s why we offer a free simple cover letter template that you can download as a PDF or Word file. Edit your document in the program that’s most comfortable for you so you can submit your application and get back to the things that matter most.

Here is exactly how you can write a cover letter that will stand out from the crowd, and help you land that interview.

With our free simple cover letter template, you can be sure you’re getting a classic design that will benefit you in virtually any position or industry. These simple templates are the best of both worlds when it comes to style and functionality. And most importantly, they make sure the emphasis stays on you. Check out our collection to see how a free simple cover letter template can enhance any application and don't forget to check out our simple resume templates ! 

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Cover Letter Template

While a resume provides details to show you CAN do the work, a cover letter shows you WANT to do the work. Cover letters are used to introduce you to the prospective employer, highlight the most important details about you, and if well written, entice the reader to seriously review your resume. Continue reading below to learn how to write a cover letter, see examples of cover letters and to download a free cover letter template .

Resume Cover Letter Template

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Looking for a change in employment? Use this free resume cover letter template to help you get started. Looking for help on Resumes? Check out our tips and templates for resumes .

Author : Brent Weight and Jon Wittwer

License : Limited Use

Cover Letter Objectives

Before writing a cover letter, make sure you have a clear understanding of the goals or objectives for the letter. These objectives include:

• Introduce yourself and your resume
• Explain your experience in more detail by providing pertinent stories or experiences
• Provide a sample of your written communication
• Hook the reader so they will want to read your resume

Personalize Your Cover Letter

Cover letters should be personalized as much as possible. Never send out the same cover letter twice. It may require you to do some research and to reach out to your network to make connections and introductions. Here are some things to include.

• Make sure you tailor your letter to a specific individual and greet them by name.
• If you don't have a name, then consider skipping the generic salutation.
• Try to include details specific to the company or the position.
• Provide a reference about how you heard about the job. This may include the date of the newspaper post or the online job reference number.
• If you have had prior contact with the recipient, remind them of it in the introduction.
• Be sure to mention any third parties that are recommending you or referring you for the position.
• Consider listing the job you are applying for in a subject line.

The main body of the cover letter should have appropriate content. Don't use it to simply recreate your resume. Pick 3 or 4 key traits, skills or attributes you really want to highlight and focus on those. Consider picking traits that may be most appropriate based on the job listing. Use experiences, stories and results to demonstrate your use or possession of the traits or attributes.

Make sure you end with a strong closing that is short and to the point. The time for details and stories has passed. Consider inviting them to read your resume and include a request for a response or an interview. You may decide to keep the ball in your court and simply inform them you will follow up with a phone call. And be considerate and thank them for their time.

Additional Cover Letter Writing Tips

• Use a formal business letter structure - You are writing a letter, not a memo or email. Use a formal business letter template .
• Avoid bad grammar and spelling. - Poorly written and edited letters can kill your chances before they even look at your resume. Consider hiring a professional to edit your cover letter.
• Don't sound desperate - Avoid sounding desperate by avoiding phrases such as "I really need this job" or "I hope you pick me".
• Use formatting wisely - Use formatting such as bullets, italics, bold and font changes to draw attention to key items and to increase readability.
• Avoid anything negative - Honesty about issues or special circumstances you face is important, but you don't have to mention it in your cover letter. Use interviews to provide these details.
• Keep it short - Your letter should highlight and demonstrate, not bore and wander. Keep to the main points and be succinct.
• Don't mess up in the delivery - Make sure your letter looks correct when printed. Consider using nicer paper for actual letters. When sending electronically, send it as a PDF since almost everyone has software to read a PDF file.
• Avoid uncommon language - Avoid terms that are specific to past employers and not used my most people. This would include acronyms and company jargon.

Use AI To Help Write a Resume Cover Letter

There are multiple generative AI tools that can help you come up with a draft for a letter. For example, using the Bing AI Chat or ChatGPT, you could use some of these prompts:

• Create a cover letter for this job posting. [Paste job listing here]
• Create a cover letter for a job as a tie fighter pilot in the empire.

BONUS! If you have a ChatGPT Plus account, check out our Letter Writing AI .

Sample Cover Letters

Sample cover letter for recent graduate.

Bill Stevenson 123 Anywhere Street Somewhereville, Best State 88889

Mr. Ryan Francom IT Manager XYZ Aviation Company 456 Somewhere Road Best Town, Best State 88888

Dear Mr. Francom,

In May, I will graduate from Tech University with a Master's of Science in Aeronautical Engineering. I am seeking to pursue my life long goal of becoming an aeronautical engineer for a world-class aviation company. Let me briefly highlight the skills, values and passion I will bring to XYZ Aviation Company.

• Lifelong passion for all things aeronautical including receiving my pilot's license at the age of 15.
• Solid understanding of aeronautical design processes and procedures gained at ABC Corp as a Level 1 engineer.
• Ability to work with others on interdisciplinary design teams in order to meet goals and complete projects on time.
• An aptitude for defining problems and identifying creative solutions while building consensus between all affected parties.
• A hardworking and self-directed work ethic with a dedication to detail.

An interview to further review your needs and my skills would be mutually beneficial. Next week I will contact you to schedule an interview. I look forward to talking to you soon.

Bill Stevenson

Example Cover Letter

Nancy Thompson 123 Anywhere Street Somewhereville, Best State 88889

Ms. Emily Smith HR Manager XYZ Company 456 Somewhere Road Best Town, Best State 88888

Dear Ms. Smith,

Bob Jones, your IT director, suggested that I contact you regarding the recently listed Sales Director position. I would love to be an integral part of your leadership team and contribute my proven management skills, efficiency and productivity to your corporate goals.

Highlights of my 20 year career include

• Over 10 years of experience managing direct sales staff with 20 years of marketing and sales experience.
• Creation and implementation of a direct sales program with annual sales reaching $50 million in less than 4 years.
• Deadlines met on time and in budget with a willingness to work with others to accomplish corporate tasks.
• Led the successful acquisition and merger of ACME Companies catalog sales division with ABC Companies sales division.

I am confident my qualifications will allow me to add significant value to your company as the Sales Director. I will call you directly to schedule an appropriate time for us to speak about the challenges and opportunities your company faces and how I can contribute to your company's future growth and success. Thank you in advance for your time.

Nancy Thompson

More Resume Cover Letter Templates

There are some sample cover letters in the Microsoft Office template gallery, under the category Letters . You can also find templates by opening Microsoft Word, going to File > New, and searching for "resume cover letter." Below are examples of some of the letters you can find this way:

• Resume Cover Letter to Use When Referred by a Colleague
• Cover Letter for an Entry-Level Resume
• Cover Letter in Response to Advertisement
• ... for a Temporary Position
• ... Announcing Your Job Search
• ... for a Functional Resume
• ... with Salary Requirements
• ... for Unsolicited Resume

Additional Resources

Below are some additional resources to help you write a great cover letter for your resume. They contain additional writing guidelines and tips.

• What is a Cover Letter? at purdue.edu - A down-and-dirty guide to writing cover letters.
• 6 Secrets to Writing a Great Cover Letter at forbes.com - Some extra tips
• Cover Letter Tips (PDF) at michigan.gov - Basic cover letter structure and tips with additional examples.
• Cover Letter Writing at northwestern.edu

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Job Application Letter Template [Word]

A job application letter is a written document sent along with a resume to provide additional information on your skills and experiences. It is intended to highlight your most relevant knowledge and capabilities for the job you’re applying for.

By clicking Download, you agree to Zippia’s Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

How to make a job application letter

Start with your contact details at the top of the letter including your name, address, phone number, and email address.

Next, write the date and then the employer’s contact details.

Express your interest in the job opening and mention the job title you are applying for in the first paragraph.

Use the middle paragraph or paragraphs to highlight your skills and experiences that make you a suitable candidate.

In your final paragraph, thank the employer for considering your application and express your interest in future interviews.

End the letter with a formal close such as ‘Yours sincerely’ followed by your name.

How to use a job application letter template

A job application letter template can simplify the process and ensure all key points are addressed. To use a template:

Select a suitable template that fits your professional profile.

Tailor every part of the template to match the job advertisement and your own experiences.

Ensure the tone of the letter is professional and is in line with your industry norms.

Proofread for any spelling or grammar errors before submitting.

Job application letter FAQ

What is the main purpose of a job application letter? The main purpose of a job application letter is to provide detailed information on why you are a qualified candidate for the job. It goes beyond the resume to explain in detail how you could add value to the company.

What’s the difference between a job application letter and a resume? A job application letter is written in a letter format, detailing why you’re suitable for a specific job. A resume only outlines your skills and experience in a systematic format.

Who should you address the job application letter to? If possible, you should always address the job application letter to the hiring manager who is responsible for reviewing applications.

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Matthew Zane is the lead editor of Zippia's How To Get A Job Guides. He is a teacher, writer, and world-traveler that wants to help people at every stage of the career life cycle. He completed his masters in American Literature from Trinity College Dublin and BA in English from the University of Connecticut.

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