cover letter example australia 2023

Best Cover Letter Example Template for Australia

cover letter example templates for australia

The Best Cover Letter examples in Australia in 2022 will prompt a prospective employer to read your Resume. They do this by demonstrating how your skills and experience align with those sought after by the employer.

By briefly outlining how you can add value to their business, the hiring manager will see that you are someone worth investigating further.

Oftentimes, however, an application will be dismissed before the Resume is even read, as a result of mistakes in the Cover Letter.

Cover Letters play a massive role in whether you get called in for an interview or not. According to a survey conducted by ResumeLab, 83% of recruiters believe that Cover Letters are important in making hiring decisions, and can even convince recruiters to schedule an interview with an applicant despite a poor Resume.

While writing your Cover Letter, you may not be realising that you are making mistakes that are severely impacting your chances at securing the job. Our experts have analysed 100+ Cover Letter examples to highlight the most common mistakes to avoid.

It’s good to get into the habit of understanding these mistakes now before you jeopardise your chances of securing employment any further!

Here are the most important Cover Letter mistakes to avoid:

Best Cover Letter Examples: Avoid Typographical Errors

Page Contents

Most hiring companies in Australia are looking for people with outstanding communication skills.

Communication skills are one of the most important soft skills to have when looking for a job. Demonstrating high-quality communication skills helps to build trust, boost teamwork and furthers your professional relationships.

This will usually include written skills, as well as, verbal communication skills. Your Cover Letter is your first opportunity to show your prospective employer that you have the necessary language capabilities.

Typographical and grammatical errors will often see your application rejected immediately.

Here are some tips:

Make sure to use a spellchecker after drafting your Cover Letter . This is an easy step that you shouldn’t overlook! If your Cover Letter contains any spelling errors or typos, this immediately sends the message that the rest of your application is weak too.
Re-read it to make sure the content is grammatically and contextually correct. Present yourself in a strong and accurate way!
Ask someone else to read through it as well. Sometimes we can miss some obvious mistakes as we have read the content a number of times and are ‘too close to it’. Having someone else read your Cover Letter to check for any mistakes is always a fantastic idea!

Best Cover Letters in Australia: Avoid using a standard or generic Cover Letter

You need to tailor your Cover Letter to the position you are applying for, and the best Cover Letter examples in Australia have shown that.

One of the quickest ways to have your application overlooked is to send out a generic Cover Letter which does not address the specific key selection criteria or skill set required.

Things to include in a tailored Cover Letter in Australia are:

Your contact information like email address, mobile number and LinkedIn Profile
The position you are applying for
The skills and experience you have which qualify you as being suitable for this specific job
An example of how you applied as many of those skills in a previous role – this should directly tie in with one of the key selection criteria listed in the job advertisement
The name of the organisation you are applying to; the name of the hiring manager and change the date of your Cover Letter if you are using a template from a previous application

Best Cover Letters Template Tips: Don’t write too much!

Your Cover Letter should be concise, encouraging the hiring manager to want to learn more about you by reading your Resume, and, ultimately, inviting you to an interview.

By rambling on too much and including unnecessary information, you risk alienating yourself and having your application dismissed. Recruiters love simple, short and concise Cover Letters. Get to the point!

Keep your Cover Letter to one page, highlighting your most relevant achievements and skills, always ensuring they match the key selection criteria stated in the position description.

Best Cover Letters in Australia: Avoid buzzwords

Using Buzzwords or clichés in your Cover Letter shows a lack of imagination and effort. You don’t want to give off the impression to recruiters of being unoriginal or lazy, do you?

Simply recycling those qualities listed in a job ad word-for-word and attributing them to yourself won’t do you much good. Without giving concrete examples of how they apply to you will see your application immediately brushed aside. Examples of such buzz words include: “team player”, “good communication skills”, “hard worker”, and “detail-oriented”.

Don’t just tell them you’re a hard worker, show them! Back-up your statements. You can do this by detailing specific tasks and outcomes you were responsible for, and successful at, while in your previous role(s).

Your Cover Letter and Resume may promise a certain level of personality or value, which is what will get you an interview, but once you’re face-to-face with a recruiter, that level of value will need to be made evident.

Best Cover Letters: Include appropriate personal details

Personal details such as your age, hobbies, and marital status should not be included in your Cover Letter .

Not only are they usually irrelevant to the job you are applying for, but they could also give the person reading your Cover Letter an excuse to dismiss your application without having read your Resume.

An employer wants to see how your previous work experience relates to the position on offer. So, unless your outside interests are pertinent to the role, it’s best to not include them in your Cover Letter.

Best Cover Letters: Don’t exaggerate or lie about skills or experience

Sometimes job seekers are tempted to exaggerate their skills or experience to improve their chances of obtaining an interview. This is a big mistake.

Whether the prospective employer asks you about it during an interview or calls your previous employer to ask them, you will nearly always be found out.

It is much better to really think about how your actual experience relates to the qualities and key selection criteria being sought after. Once you have found qualitative and quantitative examples of this experience, aim to express this honestly and in your own words.

Even if you don’t have enough experience required for the job you’re applying for, you can overcome this by selling yourself in other ways.

A Cover Letter that highlights your achievements and includes similar projects or relatable experience can work in your favour. This will provide evidence of your value in terms of accomplishments which is what recruiters want to know about.

Also, if you’re qualified in any way, you can sell this in a Cover Letter or in the interview to convince recruiters of your value, regardless of any gaps in your experience, skill set or job history.

Download our Cover Letter Example Template For 2022

To conclude, a good Cover Letter is a pivotal factor in the job application and job interview process. A Cover Letter should be well-written and engaging, and should convince the hiring manager that you are the best candidate.

A Cover Letter is a brief introduction of a job applicant that captures the employer’s attention and conveys competence, professionalism, and enthusiasm. The Cover Letter should provide some basic facts about the applicant such as their current position, career goals, and key skills.

To help you develop the perfect Cover Letter, download our free Cover Letter Template today to get started! Our Cover Letter template includes tips and advice from top Australian recruiters which will help you catch the recruiter’s attention – so you land a job in 2022.

The template can be customised to apply for jobs in all industries including Information Technology, Engineering, Business, Finance, and Accounting.

cover letter example template download 2021

If you would like one-to-one support to create a high-quality and impactful Cover Letter to get more job interviews and jobs in Australia, please feel free to get in touch.

We wish you all the best in your job search! Careers Team, Career Success Australia

Our Career Counsellors have helped more than 3000+ Job seekers to get their Dream Job in Australia.

How to Write a Cover Letter!

How to Write a Cover Letter that Stands Out [Beginner’s Guide]

Bad Cover Letters vs. Good Cover Letters

Hello, It’s been a real challange finding job(s) that DON’T require vaccinations. How does one succeed in getting THAT job where this isn’t a requirement?

While the initial advertisment for a job doesn’t mention the need for a double vaccantion, it isn’t until the end or indeed, when one is called for a interview, that the question arises.

What can I, as one that has been stood down from a 15 year job, do to succeed in getting a job? And one where the mandate hasn’t been implemented or has been rescinded. It just seems so prejudicial.

Many thanks, Armand Haine

Hi Armand, yes, we have heard of many cases where the person hasn’t been able to have the vaccination due to medical reasons. At some point in time the vaccination certificate requirement that some companies ask for will phase out. What you can do Armand is increase the number of job interviews you attend. The more interviews you get, the more offers you will get which means you may find an employer that does not require the vaccination certificate. Also, it depends which industry you are trying to get into. Some industries require it, others, not so much. Feel free to contact us if you would like to discuss your case in detail. Best wishes, Career Success Australia

Cover Letters: A Comprehensive Guide [+ Templates and Samples]

In this post, free cover letter template, cover letter examples for different kinds of jobs, creative cover letter design template, how to message a recruiter on linkedin.

In this post Show

Write the perfect cover letter for a job application in every industry. Download our free cover letter templates and examples to impress the hiring manager and nab the job you want.

The purpose of a cover letter is to convince a hiring manager or recruiter to read your resume. Your cover letter tells the story of why you’re applying, and why you’re a great fit for the role. Then your resume backs it up with essential data and details.

But for a new or inexperienced job seeker, figuring out how to write an effective cover letter can be super confusing.

That’s why we’ve created various cover letter templates for you to download and use. They’re no-fuss, easy to edit and are even targeted at certain jobs (so you know they have the right information).

Use these cover letter templates as a starting point and personalise them however you want.

Are cover letters still relevant in 2021?

Cover letters are a hotly-debated topic amongst job seekers, recruiters, and people giving career advice. Doubt that? Try searching ‘cover letters’ on Reddit and see how many different opinions are out there.

Almost every job application requires a cover letter. It’s the first thing that hiring managers see, and creates a first impression (whether positive or negative) that can determine whether your application makes it past the skimming stage.

No wonder we often dread writing them. It’s common to stress over how to write it, what to include, and wonder if they even matter at all.

How much time should you spend on it? Does anyone actually read cover letters in 2021? (Yes, they do).

The most challenging thing about writing one is that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Different industries and levels of seniority will have different sets of expectations.

If you’re applying for a position as a project manager in construction, your cover letter will sound very different than if you were applying for a customer service role. Likewise for roles in the creative industry, technology, and healthcare – they all have different flavours.

In 2021, cover letters are still very relevant, and many employers won’t even consider your application without one. But there are more modern ways of delivering them, as well as a few ways to make yours stand out.

Cover Letter Template

This is a generalised cover letter template that projects passion for any job. Just add your own information!

[Today’s Date]

[Your full name] [Your phone number] [Your email] [Your address, city, state, postcode] [Your LinkedIn]

[Hiring Manager’s Name] [Company Address, City, State] [Phone number] [Email address]

Dear [Hiring Manager],

RE: <insert role title> position

I am thrilled to submit my application for the <insert role title> role at <insert company name>. I believe I would be a perfect fit for the position as I am passionate about <insert your passion that aligns with the role you’re applying for> and possess the motivation and perseverance to overcome any challenge thrown my way.

Your company’s mission to <insert company mission you are passionate about> is inspiring, and I would be thrilled to contribute to this mission. I feel my relevant experience and skills match well with your company values, including:

<Experience: insert a sentence about your relevant experience. E.g.: Working in my role as XXX for X years, I’ve gained a deep understanding of XXX> <Skills: insert a sentence that covers your key technical skills relating to the job. Avoid talking about soft skills or personal traits here.> <Achievement: insert a sentence about an achievement or result that demonstrates your suitability for the role or exemplifies your work ethic.>

I can see myself vastly developing my skills and professional expertise at <company name>, which would be an exhilarating opportunity. I’m always hungry to improve myself and am dedicated to continuously learning.

From previous work experience at <insert company name>, I have learned valuable communication skills, problem solving, and teamwork. I thrive working in high-pressure situations and am a highly adaptable professional.

I am confident that I am a great candidate for this position and that I would be able to navigate the challenges of the <insert role title> role at <insert company name> successfully. I’d appreciate the chance to meet with you to further discuss this job opportunity. Thank you for considering my application.

[Your name]

How to Write a Cover Letter That’s Unique (Like You)

Got questions about editing your cover letter template? The answers are here.

Best Cover Letter Examples and Why They Work

Discover how to win over the hiring manager with just your cover letter.

Sometimes, you need an industry-specific cover letter, because generic ones just aren’t relevant to the positions you’re applying for. Here is a range of examples for the most commonly searched cover letter types.

Hospitality cover letter

Craft the perfect letter for a culinary or tourism job with this hospitality cover letter

Nursing cover letter

A sample to use when building your nursing cover letter.

Administration cover letter

Create the perfect application with this administration cover letter example.

Receptionist cover letter

Get noticed and hired using this receptionist cover letter example.

Retail cover letter

A quality sample of a cover letter for retail.

Customer service cover letter

Get a head-start on drafting the perfect customer service cover letter with this example.

How to address key selection criteria in a cover letter

Discover examples and templates to help you properly address key selection criteria.

If you’re looking to enter a creative industry, or a role where you’ll be expected to offer some creative flair, these templates have been designed for you. Submitting a well-designed cover letter not only feels more premium, but it demonstrates your passion for creativity and creating high quality work.

This kind of cover letter won’t be appealing to employers in all industries, so be discerning about whether it will make the right impression for the job you’re applying for.

Artistic Flair Cover Letter Template (Orange)

A cover letter with a bold design to get noticed. Perfect for design-centred jobs.

Artistic Flair Cover Letter Template (Beige)

Creative Communications Cover Letter Template

A cover letter perfect for communications jobs, pairing bold design with a professional style.

Modern Corporate Cover Letter Template

A sleek and professional cover letter that offers readability and style. Perfect for corporate jobs.

Because, after all: it’s not always what you know, it’s who you know.

Making a great impression through a LinkedIn DM can be tricky. But, done well, it has the potential to propel you to the top of the interview shortlist.

This is how to message a recruiter on LinkedIn:

Cold contact with a recruiter to ask about future job openings

Message title: speculative job application — [role title you’re interested in].

Hi <recruiter’s first name>,

I’m keen to connect with you to stay up to date on job openings with <company name>. As a recent <field of study> graduate, I’ve been on the lookout for a <specify the kind of role you want (e.g.: marketing assistant)> role in a company where I’ll be encouraged to strive for excellence in my work and have the chance to develop as a professional.

Through my research, I found <company name> to hold values that align with my own, and have a mission I feel passionately about pursuing myself. <Insert statement about how you relate to the company’s mission, or why you feel strongly about it.> Because of this, I feel we’d be a perfect fit for each other.

I have skills in <insert short list of key technical skills> founded in work experience at <company name>. I’m also dedicated to pushing for strong results, for example, <insert example of a situation where you’ve used one/multiple of these skills to push for an excellent result. Make sure it aligns with the role you want, and ensure you outline the result you achieved.>

I am a <insert snappy summary of who you are as a professional, e.g.: I am a proven writer with an adaptable mentality and a desire to exceed expectations and continuously learn.> I’d love the opportunity to work for <company name>. Although I can see there are no jobs advertised at the moment, I’d like to submit my resume for your future consideration.

If you’d like to discuss what else I can bring to <company name> as a <role title>, feel free to call me on <mobile number>.

Kind regards, <Your name>

(Remember to attach your resume.)

LinkedIn message to complement recently submitted job application

Message title: regarding the position of [role title] or concerning the recently advertised [role title] position.

I’ve recently applied for the position of <role title> with your organisation, and am keen to reach out to formally introduce myself. Working for your company has been a dream of mine since I began my studies in <field of study> X years ago. I have a deep respect for <something you respect about the company> and feel my own values align with this.

Through my studies and work experience at <insert company>, I’ve developed a broad skill set which would be highly beneficial in this role. For example, <insert example of a situation where you’ve used one/multiple of these skills to push for an excellent result. Make sure it aligns with the job description, and ensure you outline the result you achieved.>

I’ve outlined further examples of what I can bring to the company as a <role title> in my job application.

I hope we’ll have the opportunity to speak more about this role and what I can bring to it.

Regardless of whether I’m a successful candidate, it would be great to connect with you so I can stay on top of job opportunities with <company name>. Thank you for considering my application.

Warm regards, <Your name>

If you’re struggling to find the right person to message, check out this video tutorial.

So they’ve read your cover letter, and decided your resume is worth a look. Make sure it’s doing you justice!

Check out the Ultimate Guide to Resumes for templates, examples and more.

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Cover Letter for Jobs in Australia: Sample & Tips

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on writing a cover letter for a job application in Australia. Crafting a compelling cover letter is crucial for landing your dream job and showcasing your skills and qualifications to potential employers.

In this guide, we will provide you with a detailed sample cover letter that you can use as a reference when drafting your own. We will also offer valuable tips and insights to help you tailor your cover letter specifically for the Australian job market.

Whether you’re a local candidate or an international applicant seeking opportunities in Australia, our expert advice will help you create a standout cover letter that highlights your unique strengths and experiences.

Let’s dive in and learn how to create a compelling cover letter that will make a lasting impression on employers in Australia.

Note: This is a general guide for writing a cover letter for jobs in Australia. It is recommended to customize your cover letter based on the specific requirements of the employer and the job you are targeting.

Recommended: Canadian Cover Letter Sample

Australian Jobs Cover Letter Sample

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the job position at your company. I recently came across the job listing on your website and was immediately drawn to the exciting opportunities that your organization offers.

I am a highly motivated and qualified candidate with [number of years] years of experience in [industry/field]. I have a strong background in [specific skills/qualifications relevant to the job], which I believe would make me a valuable asset to your team.

Having recently relocated to Australia, I am eager to contribute my skills and expertise to the local job market. I am impressed by your company’s commitment to [specific values/goals], and I am confident that my skill set aligns well with your requirements.

Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated my ability to [mention key achievements/experiences that prove your competence]. I am a quick learner, adaptable, and thrive in fast-paced environments. Additionally, my strong communication and problem-solving skills have allowed me to successfully collaborate with cross-functional teams and deliver exceptional results.

I am particularly interested in the opportunity to work at your company because of [mention specific aspects of the company that you find appealing, such as its culture, mission, or reputation]. I believe that my passion for [mention relevant industry or field] and my dedication to continuous learning would make me a great fit for your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume for your review. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my qualifications and experience align with your company’s needs in more detail. Please feel free to contact me at your convenience.

I look forward to the possibility of joining your team and contributing to your continued success.

[Your Name]

How to Write a Great Cover Letter for a Job in Australia?

Writing a cover letter for jobs in Australia follows a similar structure and format as cover letters in other countries. Here are 10 key tips to help you craft an effective cover letter to apply for a job in Australia:

1. Contact Information: Include your full name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of the page.

2. Salutation: Begin your cover letter with a formal salutation, such as “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name]”

3. Introduction: Start by introducing yourself and stating the position you are applying for. Mention how you learned about the job opening and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity.

4. Highlight Your Skills and Experience: In the body paragraphs, showcase your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. Draw attention to specific accomplishments that demonstrate your suitability for the role. Use bullet points or paragraphs to present this information clearly.

5. Research the Company: Take the time to research the company and understand its values, goals, and culture. Mention specific aspects that align with your background or career aspirations.

6. Explain Your Motivation: Explain why you are interested in working for the company and why you believe you are the right candidate for the position. It’s important to demonstrate your passion and commitment.

7. Customize for Each Application: Tailor each cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. Highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position.

8. Closing: Conclude your letter by thanking the hiring manager for considering your application and expressing your interest in further discussing your qualifications.

9. Signature: End the letter with a professional closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards,” followed by your full name.

10. Proofread and Edit: Before sending your application, thoroughly proofread your cover letter for any grammar or spelling errors. Read it aloud or ask someone else to review it as well.

Final Thought

Congratulations! You have now acquired the knowledge and tools to create an outstanding cover letter for job applications in Australia. By following our sample and utilizing the tips provided, you can confidently put together a document that effectively showcases your skills and qualifications.

Remember, a well-crafted cover letter is your opportunity to make a strong first impression on potential employers and separate yourself from the competition. Tailoring your letter to the Australian job market will demonstrate your understanding of local expectations and increase your chances of success.

As you begin drafting your own cover letter, keep in mind the importance of personalization, showcasing your relevant skills, and conveying your enthusiasm for the job. Take the time to proofread and review your letter before sending it off, ensuring that it is error-free and clearly communicates your value as a candidate.

Best of luck with your job application in Australia! We are confident that with the information provided in this guide, you will be able to create a compelling cover letter that catches the attention of employers and sets you on the path to career success.

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How to write a great cover letter

A cover letter is your chance to introduce yourself to a potential employer and spark their interest in reading your resume.

When you’re prepping job applications, a cover letter might seem like an afterthought compared to your resume. But your cover letter is worth just as much attention . That doesn’t mean it needs to be overly detailed – in fact, a simple single page is best.

Here are the key points to know about cover letters, plus the steps to follow to write one.

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is a short letter that accompanies your resume when you apply for a role. It’s often the first point of contact you make with a potential employer, hiring manager or recruiter for a job application.

It’s a way to give the employer a sense of who you are, highlighting your skills and experience, before they read the information in your resume. Just as if you were meeting someone for the first time, you’d introduce yourself first before getting into the detail.

Sometimes, a short email can take the place of a cover letter, but the way you write it is much the same.

Take a look at this article comparing an average cover letter to a great one to help you see how to craft yours well.

How does a cover letter compare to your resume?

Your resume and cover letter complement each other but do slightly different things. Your resume summarises the key details of your skills, work experience and education. Resumes are best formatted with bullet points and broken into sections with subheadings, across about two pages.

A cover letter is shorter and sharper: a single page is best. It’s also more of a conversation opener – you’re speaking to the person responsible for the role you’re applying for, expressing your interest in the job and showing them why you’re a good fit for it.

The language in a cover letter is more personal. For example, a social worker’s resume might include, Redeveloped community youth program, increasing participation by 20 per cent. But in a cover letter you can write in the first person, which might read as, I’m a dedicated and driven social worker, with a strong commitment to supporting disadvantaged youth. It’s a chance to describe your skills and experiences in a way that also gives some insight into you and your career.

How to write your cover letter

Start with a brief introduction about yourself and why you’re writing. Mention the job you’re applying for and your interest in it.
Give a snapshot of the relevant skills, experience and qualifications you have that relate to the job. Think about the key two or three points in your resume and explaining these in a way that links them to why you’d be great for the role.
Give examples of your skills or mention how you’ve used them – you might need to do this in more detail if the job ad requests that you address selection criteria.
Note that your resume is attached. To finish, you can say that you’d welcome the opportunity to meet to discuss the role, or that you’re happy to provide more information, before signing off.

How to make your cover letter stand out

A cover letter should be engaging – you want to capture the interest of the person reading it so that they turn to your resume to find out more.

It’s also about showing the employer how your skills and experience are a good match for the role. That’s why you should always create a cover letter especially for the role you’re applying for – it shouldn’t be a generic letter. These tips can help you tailor your cover letter to the job.

A good cover letter can also demonstrate your written communication skills. Write for the environment you’re applying to: if it’s a more informal workplace or a creative type of work, don’t be afraid to inject some personal style into your writing to stand out.

Reading the 5 things employers wish they could say about cover letters and what recruiters look for in cover letters can also help you to write one that will impress.

Quick tips for improving your cover letter

Use clear, concise language. It’s best to avoid complicated or flowery wording.
Avoid overly long sentences. Try reading it aloud to see if there are any you struggle with.
Always tailor your cover letter to the job. An application is all about showing how you’re a good fit for the role on offer, and you don’t want your cover letter to seem reused.
Rather than writing ‘To whom it may concern’ or ‘Dear Sir or Madam’, find out who to address your letter to; you could phone the company to ask. It’s more personal that way and shows you’ve taken initiative.
Triple check your spelling and grammar. Try printing your letter out then coming back to it fresh, or get someone with a keen eye to look over it for you.
Keep your letter to around 250-350 words on a single page.
Take a look at these examples of cover letters written by successful job seekers .

Writing your cover letter might feel intimidating at first when you’re facing a blank page. But by following these steps and tips, you can focus on crafting a cover letter that captures what you can bring to the role and makes a winning impression to the employer.

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How to write a cover letter in Australia: Your guide to standing out

January 02, 2023

A cover letter is the megaphone your job application needs to stand out and intrigue hiring managers… but what if your hand is shaky on the on-switch? Find out how to write a great cover letter, even if you’re not confident with words.

A woman dressed in yellow holding an illustrated megaphone against a textured background

When it comes to job hunting, there are two things that will never go out of fashion—the all-powerful resume, and its best buddy, the cover letter. Sure, your resume will change over time, and the final product will vary from a one-pager to a complete breakdown of your work history depending on your industry, but the letter portion generally stays the same (with some caveats for government, legal, STEM and finance roles).

That said, hitting the right tone with your cover letter can be tricky. Too confident, and you’ll come across as braggy with no substance; too factual, and the reader may lose interest. Luckily, there’s a tried and tested approach for treading this line.

What is the purpose of a cover letter?

Before we dive into the how-to, let’s look at the purpose behind this one-page statement. A cover letter is there to help time-poor managers assess your application because it highlights the skills and accomplishments you feel are most relevant to the job. Think of it as a summary of your resume.

While templates are easy (and tempting), generic cover letters can damage your chances of getting to the next stage. You risk rubbing your reader the wrong way with stock-like responses, a lack of research and vague statements in the place of demonstrated understanding. While you want to talk about the nitty gritty of the role and your career highlights, a cover letter is also the place to let your personality shine. You should bring yourself to the table and show the hiring manager how you align with their business from day zero.

Do you need a cover letter?

Yes. Submitting your application without one is a little like writing an assignment without including a list of references. You need to include a cover letter to show potential employers you have the initiative, dedication and attitude they want in their business. Even if tailoring your application takes a little longer than pressing send, it’s well worth it. Put yourself in the reader's position; would you interview the person who took the time to learn about the role, or the contender who attached their resume without so much as a hello, this is who I am and what I bring to the table?

Mastering Australian cover letters

So how do you become a whiz at writing cover letters, and what are the steps that can make the process easier? If you take nothing else from this piece, remember this—preparation is key. If you’ve researched the role and identified your most relevant skills and achievements, writing a cover letter will be much easier.

Before you begin

Research the role.

By researching what you’ll be doing and getting a bit of background on the company, you’ll be able to learn more about the role and will find it easier to write the cover letter with this in mind. Look for recent articles on the company and its founders, and have a read of their website to get a feel for what they do. Make sure you understand the criteria that they’ve listed.

Brainstorm real-world examples

The worst thing you can be in a cover letter is generic. Comments like “I have great people skills” don’t really say anything. Once you know what the business is looking for, start thinking about real-world problems you’ve solved that meet the job ad’s criteria. Brainstorm things like: How did you impact the company? Are there key performance stats that prove you made positive changes? Have these examples ready.

Gather contact details

If you can, find out the hiring manager’s name. LinkedIn or the company’s website can be great for this, so do a little digging. If all else fails, call the company and ask. It shows initiative.

Create a cover letter people care about in 5 steps

So you’ve got your background information and you’re armed with great examples of your achievements. Now’s the time to write a stand out cover letter.

1. Write a targeted introduction

Talk about what drew you to the role in the first place. Was it the culture? The company’s charitable work? Their reputation as industry leaders? Make sure you also say why that’s important to you—shared values are a great way to show company alignment. And remember, engagement is key, so you should be more conversational than you would be in a resume.

2. Explore your history and connect it with the role

How have you gotten here? Was it a straight path, or did you start your career in another direction before finding your way to this industry? If you’re changing industries, what have you done to learn about this one, and what prompted the change? Include some very brief context around this.

3. Address the recruitment criteria in detail

It’s unlikely that you’ll tick every box in the job ad, but talk about what you’ve done in your previous roles and how your experience mirrors the job criteria. Be specific and use examples where you can. You can also mention any relevant qualifications you have if they’ve asked for them.

4. Refine your elevator pitch

You want to wind down with a quick overview. Remind the recruiter why you’re applying for this role, where you’ve come from, and why you’d like to take this path next.

5. Make a closing statement

Thank them for their time in reading your application, and let them know that you look forward to hearing from them soon. Tell them how and where you can be contacted so they don’t have to go digging through your resume for the details.

Before you hit send

There’s no point writing a great cover letter if you fall on the final hurdle. Here are some last steps you shouldn’t skip.

Proofread, leave it a day, then proofread again

This is your only chance to make a good first impression. It’s so easy to miss a typo when you submit your cover letter straight after writing it, but this looks sloppy. Give yourself the distance to spot those little errors.

Ask someone you trust in the same industry to read it for you

This’ll give you insight into anything you’ve misunderstood, or areas you can focus more on. You could also learn valuable titbits about the industry that you may be able to weave into your cover letter.

Double-check the details

There’s nothing worse than hitting ‘send’ only to realise you’ve called the hiring manager Mary when it’s actually Maree, so make sure you’ve got it right. It’s also good to check that all your contact details are correct.

Take a moment to breathe and visualise

You’re almost there, and you’re doing great. Take a moment to visualise how fantastic it’ll be if you score an interview.

Organise your resume

Make sure your resume is up to date and in the required format, with all the relevant skills clearly organised.

Send it away!

Attach it to a brief email or onto the company’s application portal and you’re done!

Congratulations! You’ve just sent off your application. Pat yourself on the back for writing a clear, concise, targeted cover letter that shows how perfect you are for the role. Good luck.

Read next: How to make an impression at your job interview

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50+ Cover Letter Examples for Job Seekers in 2023

Looking for cover letter examples that you can use?

You are at the right place!

We understand that writing a cover letter can be hard, that’s why we have added these highly customizable cover letter samples that you can copy and use.

In this article you are going to find the following examples:

Generic cover letter examples for anyone
Professional cover letter examples for experienced professionals
Creative cover letter examples to help you stand out
Entry level cover letter examples for professionals starting out their journey
Inspirational and great cover letter samples from various industries to inspire you
What a Cover Letter Should Include?

Overall a good cover letter should say that “I am applying for this position because…” and “this is what makes me the best candidate for this position…”. But in order to say it right, you need to add these 5 sections in your cover letter:

Salutation - This should be addressed to the hiring manager. If you don’t know the hiring manager and are applying at a very large company, use a salutation like “Dear [xyz] team” instead.
An introductory paragraph - Make sure to leave a good first impression here. Introduce yourself and briefly explain that you would like to apply for the position. Make it easier for the hiring manager to scan, this paragraph should be of maximum 2-3 lines.
Body paragraph(s) - This is where you help them understand why you are the perfect fit for the role. This is where your relevant experience, skills and achievements would shine.
Vision paragraph - Add how you feel you can add value to the organisation and if possible share how your vision aligns with the company’s vision.
Formal closing - Use this to prompt next steps for your job application. And add a sign-off.

Optionally, you can also include these two to your cover letter:

Postscript - If you have something of value that adds value to your cover letter, consider adding it by adding a “PS: …” at the end of your cover letter.
A portfolio paragraph - If you have a portfolio to share, consider adding a short paragraph of 1-2 lines with links to your portfolio added in it.

The Perfect Cover Letter Example Template

Salutation Dear [First name of hiring manager]/Dear [XYZ] Team

Introductory Paragraph Add your cover letter’s introduction here. Give a brief description of who you are, what you specialise in, and what makes you apply for the position. Keep it to a maximum of 2-3 lines.

Body Paragraph(s) The body paragraph(s) should highlight three things: relevant work experience, relevant skills and professional achievements. While writing these paragraphs, ensure that you only add relevant skills and experience as information overload would overwhelm the hiring manager.

Best practice is to use the combination of paragraph and bulleted list to make it easier for the hiring manager to scan for the right information as shown below in this cover letter example:

“As the lead auditor for KPMG West Coast, I managed a team of 15+ auditors independently and achieved the following results: Reached 100% compliance levels with zero errors in FY 2022 audit reports. Won award for …”

Vision Paragraph It often helps a hiring manager to see what the job applicant envisions they would do if they were hired. Adding your vision can help you stand out from the crowd.

Formal Closing Add a formal closing statement. Adding “Sincerely” followed by your name should be more than sufficient for most job applications.

Our Cover Letter Guides

A cover letter is often the very first thing a recruiter sees when you apply for a job. Even if you don’t have any job experience, making sure your cover letter is in the best shape possible gets you off to a great start on the hunt for your dream job! Take a look at our cover letter examples and guides when you're a little light on work experience:

Dental Assistant No Experience Cover Letter Examples
Legal Assistant No Experience Cover Letter Examples
Entry Level Bank Teller No Experience Cover Letter Examples
Budtender No Experience Cover Letter Examples
Paralegal No Experience Cover Letter Examples
Medical Assistant No Experience Cover Letter Examples
Flight Attendant No Experience Cover Letter Examples
CNA No Experience Cover Letter Examples
USPS No Experience Cover Letter Examples
A Sample Generic Cover Letter for Employment

We have written a lot about how to customise your cover letter to perfection, but if that’s not your strong suit - consider the cover letter example below.

Generic Cover Letter Example - Copy and Use

I was excited to see Berg Lansing’s Technical Writer position on berglansing.com and really wanted to apply for this role. The idea of playing a pivotal role in delivery of effective support to Berg Lansing’s customers through high quality user documentation is very exciting to me.

I currently manage multiple cross functional technical writing programs at ACME. And as a part of my current role I ensure that stakeholders, internal team members and customers are well supported. Some of my technical writing accomplishments at ACME include: Reduction of customer support requests by 25% as a result of simplified documentation.

Helping customer support teams reach 45% higher CSAT scores on closed support requests. Introduction of the idea of maintainable technical documentation to my peers and leading the program at ACME. Reduction of length of technical content by as much as 50%.

In my previous role, I was also responsible for maximizing the visibility of an organization's corporate activities by crafting creative content and working with creative teams for PR.

I am eager to apply my current skill set and knowledge to the Technical Writer position at Berg Lansing. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely, Heather T. Wynn

What Makes this a Great Cover Letter Example?

While this cover letter example is a generic one, it doesn’t appear to be generic at all. Heather has very smartly picked up key elements that are common across each technical writer job and have written a cover letter around it.

In addition to that, Heather also made the following decisions that make the cover letter look customized for this job:

Using the hiring manager’s name instead of a generic salutation
Mentioning the organization’s name that she’s applying to.

To summarize why it makes a great cover letter example:

It has been intelligently designed to work with multiple job ads with very minor modifications
No part of the cover letter example feels generic.
Two Professional Cover Letter Samples

If you are not applying for an entry level job, consider these professional cover letter examples.

Professional Cover Letter Sample

Jeannine C. Frederick Big 4 Consulting Corp 1901 Norman Street Los Angeles, CA 90042

Dear Jeannine,

My name is Lida and I wish to apply for the auditor position at the Big 4 Consulting Corp office in Los Angeles. I have spoken with several members of Big 4 Consulting Corp’s audit teams and was each time impressed by their acuity and passion for both accounting and their firm. I am confident that my accounting skills and passion for efficiency will make me an excellent fit for Big 4 Consulting Corp, just as they are.

My accounting and time management skills will be vital to succeeding at Big 4 Consulting Corp. I was able to apply what I had learned that year to my work at the Corp2, where I was given the opportunity to assist the non-profit accounting department and CFO in their fiscal year-end closing and annual internal and external third party audit.

It was in Corp2 that I found my passion for understanding business operations. I enjoyed understanding how each employee’s work helped achieve the organization’s goals because I would be able to find ways to perform my own tasks to more efficiently and effectively achieve those goals.

While working full time here, I also took two accounting courses and taught myself Visual Basic programming in order to further optimize my efficiency at work. I was actually able to use the programming I learned this summer to automate several tasks such as bulk emails and manage large spreadsheets.

My passion for accounting and desire to understand clients and their complex businesses and circumstances align with Big 4 Consulting Corp’s audit approach to understand a client’s business, risks, and internal controls in order to provide the most effective audit procedures. After conversing with several team members about their passions and goals, I believe I am an excellent fit for Big 4 Consulting Corp’s culture and philosophy.

I was inspired by audit manager Shanon’s dedication and ambition but also humbled by her modesty and kindness. I also clicked well with Derick and look forward to possibly working with him and all the other team members I’ve spoken with.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to discussing this position further.

Sincerely, Lida R. Boyles

What Makes this Example a Great Cover Letter to Use?

This is a very professional, yet very deeply thought-out cover letter. To take a role at such a large organization, Lida displayed how well she knows the culture and that she had put enough effort to understand the current team as well.

This cover letter example highlights how to impress a hiring manager in large organizations.

Customizable Cover Letter Sample

Here is another professional cover letter sample that you can drive inspiration from.

Dear Lorrie, TeamGIS 1787 Pearlman Avenue South Boston, MA 02127

I am excited to apply for the position of GIS Technician at TeamGIS’s New York office. My technical skills in geospatial analysis at large scale, background in data management and visualization makes me an ideal candidate for this position.

Over the last few years, I have worked on extremely challenging remote sensing use cases and LiDAR datasets to derive various indices and statistical measures. My work has been instrumental in helping decision makers with reports and custom visualizations. My key projects involve: Allocation of various types of social housing across the continental United States. Assessing impact of global warming on social housing portfolio. Informing equity research analysts about possible asset value fluctuations based on GIS data.

My professional focus, work experience and research interests significantly overlap with the future vision of TeamGIS and that’s why I feel I will be a valuable addition to your team.

I look forward to discussing this opportunity with you in detail.

Sincerely, Evan

customizable professional cover letter example

What Makes this Example a Great Cover Letter?

Unlike the previous cover letter example, this cover letter by Evan went in a completely different direction by showcasing the following: It shows that Evan has the right skills to do the job In addition, it also showcases how well Evan’s personal goals are aligned with the company goals as well.

A Creative Cover Letter Sample

This creative cover letter example will show you how you can adopt creativity and stand out from the crowd.

Cover Letter Example for Employment Application

Dear Vernon Team,

When I was in the 6th grade I was limited to 3 questions a day in my class because I asked “why” way too much. Thankfully, as an adult, I can ask “why” as many times as I want. My passion to understand the “why” for the user and the company makes me a perfect candidate for the Product Management position.

As an associate product manager, asking “why” and then collecting data to extract insights to improve products is what I truly enjoy. I have been instrumental in lifting XYZ app’s adoption from 10% to 43% and implemented a mobile attribution system from the ground up to support acquisition efforts.

I am a very organized, and strategic person who enjoys putting “hypothesis before solutions” and “differentiating with execution”. Shopping and payment products excite me a lot as there are numerous opportunities to serve better user experiences and build flow states.

As a Product Manager for Vernon, I will bring my user research skills towards mobile shopping and payment verticals and build the next generation applications.

Thank you for your time and consideration, I look forward to hearing from you about this opportunity.

Sincerely, Devon

What Makes this a Great Creative Cover Letter Example

The way Devon starts this letter by bridging his habit of asking “why” to what he becomes illustrates his deep passion for being curious and finding solutions instead of assuming everything.

Any hiring manager who is looking for a customer obsessed product manager would love Devon’s creative cover letter example.

Cover Letter Example for Career Transition

This cover letter example will help you craft one to support your career transition.

Cover Letter Sample

Dear Susan,

Ever since I started in sales, I enjoyed understanding customer’s needs and providing them with the right solutions. It became an obsession as I worked more and what started with me learning email marketing turned me into a self taught marketer. And, that’s why I’m interested in applying for the role of Junior Marketer.

From running personal projects to learning marketing to freelance for various clients to gain real world experience I have gained the following skills: PPC - Google Adwords, Facebook Ads (Google and Facebook certified) SEO and Content Marketing Email marketing and Sales enablement

At your organization (especially under Ralf’s leadership) I feel I can learn even more and fulfill my dream of working in the marketing team of a cutting edge company.

I am looking forward to hearing from you. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely, Jim

How to Use this Cover Letter Example for Career Change?

Career transitions are very hard to justify. Often hiring managers see applications from an unrelated or adjacent role and can’t understand why the candidate has applied for the position. That’s why this cover letter example is extremely good. It very clearly justifies:

The motivation to apply for the role despite working in sales.
What Jim has done on his own to support his transition.
Jim’s own thoughts on how he expects to thrive under existing leadership

This cover letter example also shows that Jim has spent time and energy considering this job as well.

Cover Letter for Entry Level Roles

This cover letter example will show you how to apply to an entry level position.

Cover Letter Example

I am excited to apply for the Mechanical Engineer Intern position at ACME. I found this position through the referral of Lorraine A. Dubreuil, Design Head for FST division at ACME. I am a graduate student pursuing Aerospace Engineering at Texas A&M. With my Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, my extensive R&D experience in mechanical design and structural engineering, I believe I am a strong candidate for this position.

During my time as an undergraduate, I utilized SolidWorks and MATLAB to design and analyze the structure tube frame of chassis. I also assisted with the hand lay-up of our vehicle’s carbon fibre monocoque which taught me a lot about working with composite structures.

Additionally, my work with the SAE collegiate design series has provided me with experience in design and manufacturing, while emphasizing teamwork, adaptability and communication.

Now, I am eager to apply my mechanical engineering knowledge and skills at ACME. Thank you for your valuable time and consideration. I am sincerely looking forward to learning more details about the Mechanical Engineer Intern position.

Sincerely, Tom

How to Use this Cover Letter Example to Apply for Jobs?

Tom, while being an undergraduate, knows the value of communication. And this cover letter example by Tom highlights how he:

Highlights relevant past R&D project work.
Leaves an impact by providing the reference who referred him for the role.
Wrote a very concise cover letter as shown in the example; this is uncommon where most graduates would overdo their cover letters and fail to leave the same impact.
The Shift Toward Email Cover Letters for Job Applications

The formal cover letter - A PDF attached to the job application with a classic 4 paragraph layout - is quickly becoming obsolete. However, it is being replaced by the “introductory email.” A short note explaining to the hiring manager or recruiter why you are the perfect fit. I use the term cover letter interchangeably with introductory email in this article.

A good cover letter is a marketing pitch - it draws the reader in, and encourages them to read more. We’ve compiled all of the best cover letters on the internet and from our own personal network.

Copying these cover letters will not be effective for you. A cover letter/intro email is a personal document that depends on the employer, the target contact, and your own skillset. If you’re a very qualified candidate - a short sentence can suffice. If you’re a young, ambitious recent graduate - you might need more real estate to sell yourself.

We have compiled various industry cover letter examples below that you can use as inspiration.

Cover Letter Example Job Categories:

Designer Cover Letter
Customer Support Cover Letter
Community Management Cover Letter
Software Engineer Cover Letter
Marketing Cover Letter
Business Development & Sales Cover Letter
Designer Cover Letter Examples

Design cover letters should focus on the things that matter most when it comes to design. Namely, the designs. However, a good designer needs to communicate well as they will be working with different members of company teams, or external clients. Design cover letters should also of course link to an online portfolio or project that shows their skill. Here are some great examples of design cover letters.

Cover letter for a product designer at Crew

This is a perfect introductory email. It takes the tone of the job post in question, and matches the company vibe. It then outlines Luke's passion for the position, and that he studies his craft extensively. He also includes links to his online portfolio/resume. You can view the full cover letter, and more examples at the blog post by Michael Cho of Crew at the following blog post: Why I didn't look at your resume .

Cover letter for a design director at 37 Signals

This cover letter matches 37 Signals Philosophy nicely. It explains Jamie's beliefs about design, and why he is unique compared to other designers. He also made a sample work project to share with the team. You can view the full cover letter at the following link .

Cover letter for a graphic designer at 37 Signals

This online cover letter has a nice balance of explaining who Jason is, what he know about the company (and why he is passionate about working for them), and his skills. The full letter can be found here .

Customer Support Cover Letter Examples

The key to a customer support role is a great personality and communication skills. The cover letter is an opportunity to first express those communication skills to your next employer. Note that these letters vary in tone, from professional to more casual. The applicant must make the judgement call based on what they know about the company.

Cover letter for a customer happiness concierge

Marlee's cover letter gets the tone right - you can tell she is a happy, personable, and effective person. She outlines why her past experience makes her a great fit for the job, and her personal habits that will ensure her success in the role. The full cover letter can be found here .

Cover letter for a Director of Customer Care

This is an expert from a blog post from the CEO at LiveStream, who said it was the best cover letter he has ever received. It is funny, honest, and confident. Note the applicant takes a few risks with the language and tone - but clearly understands his audience. You can read the full cover letter (along with the job description), at this link .

Cover letter for customer support

This cover letter gets to the point, and shows deep understanding of what a customer support role is. As it clearly states, "customers want to communicate with a human" - it is clear there is a human behind this letter. View the full letter here.

Jason clearly shows his writing skills and passion for the job in this cover letter.

Community Management Cover Letter Examples

Cover letters for community management positions must understand what a community manager role is. To be a successful community manager, one must be a great communicator, an enthusiastic personality, and a dialed-in social media guru. Here are the best examples of community manager cover letters we found.

Cover letter for a community manager

The tone perfectly matches the company that Joanne is applying for. It outlines her enthusiasm, passion, and how her past experience applies to the job.

Software Engineer Cover Letter Examples

Cover letter for a web developer

This cover letter shows that an effective introductory email doesn't have to be long. It efficiently lays out the skills that Thomas has, and piques the company's interest about what he can bring to the table. In a hot market for engineers, this is enough to get the interview. It is also from Mikael's article.

Cover letter for a front-end developer

This cover letter is also for Mikael Cho's company, Crew . It emphasizes links to Dan's portfolio and best work - very important for a web developer.

Marketing Cover Letter Examples

Cover letter for a marketing position at google

For creative positions, a creative cover letter is necessary. This cover letter mirrored the marketing materials at Google, and got the interview. View the full article here.

Sales & Business Development Cover Letter Examples

Cover letter for a business development/product specialist.

Rodolphe shows how persistence and hard work can convince an employer to hire you in this cover letter to work at Buffer - a fast growing social media management platform. The full exchange is worth reading on the Buffer Blog .

Cover letter for a sales coordinator

This cover letter for a sales coordinator position is closer to a traditional cover letter than the other examples. It does a fine job of outlining experience and passion for the job. View a full before-and-after analysis of this cover letter on the Ask a Manager Blog.

Cover Letter Examples and Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good opening sentence for a cover letter?

A good opening sentence for a cover letter is “I was excited to see Company’s position on Indeed.com and really wanted to apply for this role”.

What are some examples of selling points in a cover letter?

Some examples of good selling points in a cover letter are:

“In 2021 I was able to help my company achieve [something]...”
“I was awarded [X] in 2021 due to my exceptional work in [Y]...”
“I built [X] team out from scratch to help [company]...”
“I am currently in the top 1% in [Y]...”
“I have managed large scale projects when it comes to [X]...”
What are the 3 parts of a cover letter?

Three main parts of a cover letter are:

Cover letter body
A formal closing
How do you write a perfect cover letter?

To write a perfect cover letter make sure you address the cover letter to the right name, customize the cover letter based on the job ad and show how you are the best candidate for the role.

How to write a cover letter in email?

To write a cover letter in email, simply copy the cover letter you created using the examples above and paste it into your email client.

Use These Examples To Inform Your Own Cover Letter

Remember, the key to a good cover letter is personalization. You must market to your audience. Do the research, write well - and go get hired!

Land your dream job with VisualCV's resume and cover letter builder. Sign up below to try it for free today.

Cover letter template

Explain to the employer the purpose of your letter, why you’re applying for the job, how you meet the job criteria, and how they can contact you for an interview.

Cover letters for job applications

[your street number and name] [your suburb, state and postcode]

[title and name of addressee] [his/her position title if known]

[organisation’s name] [organisation’s address]

Dear [insert Ms/Mr Xxx or Sir/Madam]

Application for position of [name of role], Reference Number [if given]

OPENING PARAGRAPH(S): The purpose of this letter, and why them.

Paragraph 1 : start by referring to the position you’re applying for (or “I am applying for the above position” if formatted as above) and where you saw the advertisement or heard about the role.

Paragraph 2 : explain why you’re interested in the role and the organisation. In order to do this, you need to have thoroughly read the selection criteria relating to the role and researched the organisation using their website, news sites, industry contacts, and so forth. If you’re applying through a recruitment agency and don't know the name of the hiring organisation, you can research the industry instead. Try to avoid clichés and make your interest in the organisation appear personal and genuine. A brief summary of your key selling points can be included at this point to highlight your ‘organisational fit’.

eg, GreenBuild’s recent exhibit at the Sustainable Cities festival was of particular interest to me as I have a passion for sustainable development. My skills in residential design developed through my Bachelor of Design in Architecture, along with my thorough knowledge of sustainable building practices acquired over two years as a project officer with the NSW Department of Environment and Heritage, would allow me to make a meaningful contribution to your mission to create Sydney’s greenest housing developments.

MIDDLE PARAGRAPHS: Why you?

Paragraph 3 : this is where you provide evidence as to how your qualifications, skills and experience meet the selection criteria for the position. You can draw evidence from a range of experiences if relevant, including academic studies, extracurricular activities, placements, volunteer roles and paid employment history, including casual work. This section where you address the selection criteria should be the longest section in your letter. It may be necessary to divide it into more than one paragraph.

eg, My strong time management skills have been developed through balancing part time work at Bob’s Café with volunteering commitments at my local community centre while meeting all assignment deadlines to maintain a distinction average in my studies.

FINAL PARAGRAPH: Wrap-up

Paragraph 4 : this is where you express the hoped-for outcome of your letter. End on a positive note and a call to further action. You may want to reiterate how your relevant strengths make you a suitable candidate for the role and mention your availability for interview. Refer to any attachments such as resume, transcript, application form, etc.

Yours sincerely [your name typed]

[Note: Use ‘Yours sincerely’ for letters beginning with ‘Dear plus Addressee’s Name’ and ‘Yours faithfully’ for letters beginning with ‘Dear Sir/Madam’]

Speculative cover letters

Speculative cover letters are used when you are proactively seeking opportunities directly with an employer, rather than responding to advertised vacancies. For speculative letters, follow the format above, with the following adjustments:

Opening paragraph : If you’ve been referred by a friend or colleague known to the recruiter, mention this. As no job has been advertised, state that you’re seeking employment opportunities in a particular occupational area or role.

Final paragraph : You may wish to include your intention to contact the employer on a particular day to follow up. Make sure that you keep your promise by noting the date in your diary and contacting the addressee on the mentioned date, as planned.

Need more cover letter tips?

How to write a cover letter.

A cover letter is your first introduction to a potential employer, so it needs to show that you’re a suitable candidate.

Addressing selection criteria

Selection criteria are the skills, knowledge, and experience required to successfully do the job.

How to write a resume

A clear, tailored and professional resume is essential for any job application. It should aim to convince an employer that your qualifications, work experience and skillset make you a strong match for the job.

60+ Cover Letter Examples in 2024 [For All Professions]

No matter where you are in your career, or what job you’re applying for, submitting a cover letter with your resume is a must .

Done right, a cover letter will effectively complement your resume and explain to the hiring manager in more detail why you’re the right person for the job.

Writing a cover letter, however, is easier said than done.

You have to effectively demonstrate that you’ll be able to perform the responsibilities listed in the job description and that you’d be a better fit for the company compared to other candidates.

And unless you’re a professional writer, this can be a very hard task.

Fortunately, we created these cover letter examples to inspire you and help you get started with your own cover letter!

Let’s dive in!

21 Cover Letter Examples

#1. career change cover letter example .

Here’s what this cover letter does right:

Has an ideal length. This cover letter includes all the relevant information for the hiring manager without getting into too much detail.
Relevant introduction. The candidate explains that they’re changing careers and why they want to work in this new field from the get-go.
Explains their related experience. The candidate explains how their previous experience in retail sales can help them succeed in PR.

Check out our guide video guide to learn how to write a Cover Letter that gets you HIRED!

#2. Recent Graduate Cover Letter Example

cover letter example for a recent graduate

Personally greets the hiring manager. The candidate has taken the time to find the hiring manager’s name and address them by it, which makes the opening of the cover letter much more personal.
Wraps up with a call to action. The candidate wraps up the cover letter by suggesting a meeting with the hiring manager, which makes them more memorable.
Explains why the candidate is the right person for the internship. In this cover letter for an internship , the candidate explains how they’ve previously interned in a different firm, which gives them the experience to succeed in this role.

Have you just graduated from college? Make sure to check out our guide on writing an entry-level cover letter from start to finish!

#3. Middle Management Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Middle Management

Use of bullet points. The candidate presents the information in a concise and reader-friendly way, making it easy for the hiring manager to find their key achievements.
Formal closing. The candidate has used a formal and polite tone to conclude their cover letter, which combined with a call to action makes them look professional and passionate about getting the job.
Explains how the company would benefit from hiring them. The candidate outlines exactly what they could do for the company, which not only highlights their skills but also shows they’ve done their research on the company’s needs.

#4. Business Manager Cover Letter Example

cover letter example for business manager

Detailed header. In addition to the must-have contact details, this candidate has also included their professional Twitter and LinkedIn profiles, making it easy for the hiring manager to look more closely into their career.
Concise and to the point. This candidate has used short paragraphs and bullet points to make the cover letter easy to skim through.
Wraps up with a call to action. By letting the hiring manager know they’ll be contacting them soon, they’re more likely to make an impression.

Check out this article for a complete writing guide and an inspiring business manager resume sample.

#5. Ph.D. Cover Letter Example

Here’s what this cover letter does right:

Attention-grabbing introduction. In the opening paragraph, this candidate explains why they’re passionate about pursuing a Ph.D. in great detail.
Explains the candidate’s qualifications in detail. The candidate builds on their passion by explaining how they’re also qualified for the degree because of their education history and academic achievements.

#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

cover letter example for senior executive

Professional and minimalistic template. This senior executive has used a professional but minimalistic template that lets their work experience do the talking.
Achievement-oriented opening paragraph. Right from the get-go, this candidate explains what makes them so good at their job, effectively grabbing the hiring manager’s attention.
Wraps up with a call to action. By suggesting to have a meeting and discussing how they can help the company meet its goals, the candidate stands more chance to make a positive lasting impression.

#7. Architect Cover Letter Example

Modern resume template. This architect has picked a template that perfectly matches his industry, as it is professional and modern at the same time.
A personal greeting to the HR. They address the hiring manager by their first name, which helps make a better first impression.
Measurable achievements. By quantifying their achievements, the candidate proves their achievements instead of just claiming them.

Struggling with your architect resume ? Check out our full guide!

#8. Business Analyst Cover Letter Example

Detailed contact information. The candidate has listed both their LinkedIn and Twitter profiles, providing the HR manager an opportunity to learn more about the candidate.
Mentions what the candidate can do for the company. This cover letter doesn’t just explain why the job would be great for the candidate, but also how the candidate would benefit the company. Win-win, right?
Error-free and reader-friendly. It’s super important for the cover letter to have no spelling or grammatical errors and be reader-friendly. This candidate made sure they did both.

Need a resume alongside your cover letter? Check out our guide on how to write a business analyst resume .

#9. Consultant Cover Letter Example

Professional cover letter template. Being an experienced consultant, this candidate has picked a professional template that doesn’t steal the spotlight from their achievements.
Experience and achievement-oriented. The candidate has effectively elaborated on their top achievements relevant to the job.
Highlights the candidate’s passion. To show they want the job, this candidate has also explained how passionate they are about their profession.

For more advice on landing a job as a consultant, check out our guide to writing a consultant resume .

#10. Digital Marketing Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Digital Marketing

Creative cover letter template. This digital marketer highlights their originality by picking a creative cover letter template.
Lists the candidate’s awards. The candidate has taken advantage of the cover letter to list their most noteworthy awards in the industry.
Concludes with a call to action. As they used a call to action to conclude their cover letter, the HR manager will be more likely to remember them.

Want to take your digital marketing resume to the next level? Check out our guide!

#11. Graphic Designer Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Graphic Designer

Detailed contact information. The candidate has included additional contact information such as their website link, as well as their LinkedIn and Twitter profiles.
Ideal length. This cover letter is concise, which means that the HR manager is more likely to read it from start to finish.
Draws attention to the candidate’s strong points. Although this candidate is a recent college graduate, they’ve managed to effectively show that they have enough knowledge and experience to do the job right.

Read this guide to write a graphic designer resume that’s just as good as your cover letter!

#12. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Administrative Assistant

Minimalistic cover letter template. The candidate picked a well-designed but minimalistic template for their cover letter.
Focused on skills and achievements. This cover letter is packed with the candidate’s skills and achievements, proving he can be an excellent employee.
Formal closing. Politeness can go a long way and the candidate has used this to their advantage to make an impression.

Our article on how to write an administrative assistant resume can help you take your job application to the next level.

#13. Front Desk Cover Letter Example

Modern cover letter template. This template incorporates memorable colors and clear lines, which make the cover letter very visually appealing.
Attention-grabbing introduction. Using an attention-grabbing intro, the candidate is more likely to make an impression.
Calls the HR to action. By including a call to action, the candidate is reminding the HR of their immediate availability.

#14. Human Resources Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Human Resources

It is concise and to the point. The candidate doesn’t dwell on unimportant details the HR won’t be interested in.
Uses a traditional cover letter template. The cover letter design is more on the conventional side, which fits the industry better.
Highlights the candidate’s strong points. The candidate has rich work experience and they use the cover letter to elaborate on it.

This HR resume guide can help you get your resume just right.

#15. Sales Agent Cover Letter Example

Attention-grabbing cover letter template. As a salesperson, this candidate knows how important first impressions are, so they’ve picked a catchy cover letter template.
Has an ideal length. At the same time, they’ve also made sure to keep their cover letter at just the right length.
Lists the candidate’s career highlights. The candidate has made perfect use of the space by mentioning their most impressive professional achievements.

Check out this sales agent resume guide to create an attention-grabbing sales resume .

#16. Receptionist Cover Letter Example

Modern but minimalistic cover letter template. The template’s design hints the candidate is creative but professional at the same time.
Uses a catchy introduction. The candidate has used an attention-grabbing opening paragraph to catch HR’s attention.
Concludes the cover letter formally. The candidate proves that they’re polite and well-spoken, a quality very much important for the role they’re applying for.

Take your receptionist resume to the next level with this receptionist resume guide .

#17. Information Technology Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Information Technology

Mentions measurable achievements. Numbers make an impact, which is why this candidate has included measurable achievements.
Lists both soft and hard skills. The candidate has mentioned a great mix of soft and hard skills, showing how well-rounded they are.
Contains relevant contact information. The candidate’s GitHub, website name, LinkedIn, and Twitter profiles are all great additions to the resume.

Looking for tips to help you write a great IT resume ? Check out our guide!

#18. Real Estate Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Real Estate Agent

Ideal length. Short and to the point, this cover letter is bound to get noticed by the HR manager.
Wraps up with a call to action. This candidate reinforces the HR to call them back through a final call to action.
Mentions the right skills. On top of their sales accomplishments, the candidate touch upon important soft skills such as customer service and communication .

This real estate resume guide will help you take your resume from good to great.

#19. Teacher Cover Letter Example

Mentions relevant contact information details. This candidate has included optional (but relevant) contact information details, such as their LinkedIn, Quora, and Medium profiles.
Achievement-oriented. The candidate has elaborated on their achievements in more detail throughout their cover letter.
Highlights the candidate’s passion. For some jobs, being passionate is much more important than for others. Teaching is one of these jobs, which is why this candidate explains their passion for the job.

Our guide on how to write a teacher resume has all the tips you need to land the job.

#20. Project Manager Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example for Project Manager

Leverages a catchy introduction. Through a catchy introductory paragraph, this candidate is sure to grab the HR’s attention and get them to read the rest of their cover letter.
Lists measurable accomplishments. This candidate explains exactly what they’ve achieved using numbers and hard data.
Personally greets the HR. A personal greeting sounds much better than “Dear Sir/Madam,” and the candidate knows this.

This guide on how to write a project manager resume can help you perfect your appication.

#21. Paralegal Cover Letter Example

Minimalistic cover letter template. This cover letter design looks good but doesn’t steal the show from the candidate’s abilities.
Mentions the candidate’s academic achievements and extracurricular activities. Although the candidate is a recent graduate, they’ve used the cover letter to explain they have enough skills and achievements to do the job.
Lists measurable achievements. The candidate proves they did well in their internship by mentioning quantifiable achievements.

Check out this paralegal resume guide to perfect yours.

40+ More Cover Letter Examples and Guides

Couldn’t find a cover letter example for your field? Do not worry.

Below you can find a number of other cover letter examples for different fields and industries:

Acting Cover Letter Examples
Accounting Cover Letter Examples
Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Examples
Architecture Cover Letter Examples
Attorney Cover Letter Examples
Barista Cover Letter Examples
Bartender Cover Letter Examples
Business Cover Letter Examples
Business Analyst Cover Letter Examples
College Student Cover Letter Examples
Computer Science Cover Letter Examples
Construction Cover Letter Examples
Consultant Cover Letter Examples
Customer Service Cover Letter Examples
Data Analyst Cover Letter Examples
Data Entry Cover Letter Examples
Dental Assistant Cover Letter Examples
Digital Marketing Cover Letter Examples
Elementary Teacher Cover Letter Examples
Engineering Cover Letter Examples
Executive Assistant Cover Letter Examples
Finance Cover Letter Examples
Graphic Design Cover Letter Examples
Healthcare Cover Letter Examples
Human Resources Cover Letter Examples
IT Cover Letter Examples
Law Cover Letter Examples
Management Cover Letter Examples
Marketing Cover Letter Examples
Mechanical Engineering Cover Letter Examples
Medical Assistant Cover Letter Examples
Nurse Practitioner Cover Letter Examples
Physician Cover Letter Examples
Project Manager Cover Letter Examples
Receptionist Cover Letter Examples
Retail Cover Letter Examples
Sales Cover Letter Examples
Social Work Cover Letter Examples
Software Engineer Cover Letter Examples
Substitute Teacher Cover Letter Examples
Teacher Assistant Cover Letter Examples
Team Leader Cover Letter Example

What is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a one-page document that you submit as part of your job application, alongside your resume .

Its purpose is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background. On average, your cover letter should be from 250 to 400 words long .

A good cover letter can give the hiring manager more insight into what makes you a good candidate and help them make up their mind about whether they should invite you for an interview. A bad cover letter, though, will get ignored (at best) and lose you the job (at worst).

So, to make sure this doesn’t happen, it’s essential to know how to write a convincing cover letter.

The first thing to remember is that a cover letter is a supplement to your resume, not a replacement. Meaning, you shouldn’t just repeat whatever is mentioned in your resume and call it a day.

Optimally, you should use your cover letter to shed more light on your skills and qualifications, as well as explain anything you didn’t have space for in your resume (e.g. a career gap or why you’re changing careers).

If you’re writing a cover letter for the first time, though, putting all this together might seem pretty tough.

Fortunately, you can follow our tried-and-tested format to make the experience much easier:

Header - Input your contact information.
Greeting the hiring manager - Open the cover letter with a “Dear Sir or Madam,” or use the hiring manager’s name if you know what that is.
Opening paragraph - Grab the hiring manager’s attention by getting straight to the point. Mention what your professional experiences are, and what role you’re applying for.
The second paragraph - Explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the job. Mention your top 2-3 achievements, your top skills, why you want to work in that specific industry, and whatever else is relevant.
The third paragraph - End your cover letter with a call to action. E.g. “I would love to meet personally and discuss how I can help Company X.”
Formal closing - Something like this: “Thank you for your consideration. Best, John Doe.”

Here’s what this looks like in practice:

9 Tips to Write a Cover Letter (the Right Way)

Now that we've covered the basics, let's talk about cover letter tips . Below, we'll give you all the knowledge you need to take your cover letter from "OK" to "great."

#1. Pick the right template

A good cover letter is all about leaving the right first impression.

And what’s a better way to leave a good impression than through a professional, well-formatted, and visual template?

You can simply pick one of our tried-and-tested cover letter templates and you’ll be all set!

#2. Add your contact details on the header

The best way to start your cover letter is through a header.

Here’s what you want to include there:

Phone Number
Name of the hiring manager / their professional title
Name of the company you’re applying to

Optionally, you can also include the following:

Social Media Profiles - Any type of profile that’s relevant to your field. Social Profiles on websites like LinkedIn, GitHub (for developers), Medium (for writers), etc.
Personal Website - If you have a personal website that somehow adds value to your application, you can mention it. Let’s say you’re a professional writer. In that case, you’d want to link to your content portfolio site or blog.

#3. Greet the hiring manager the right way

Once you’ve listed all your relevant contact information, it’s time to address the hiring manager reading your cover letter.

A good practice here is to find the hiring manager’s name and address them directly instead of using the traditional “dear sir or madam.” This shows that you’re really invested in the company and that you took your time to do some research about the job.

So, how can you find out the hiring manager’s name?

One way to do this is by looking up the head of the company’s relevant department on LinkedIn. Let’s say you’re applying for the position of Communication Specialist at Novoresume. The hiring manager is probably the Head of Communications or the Chief Communications Office.

Or let’s say you’re applying for the position of server at a restaurant. In that case, you’d be looking to find out who the restaurant manager is.

If this doesn’t work, you can also check out the “Team” page on the company website; there’s a good chance you’ll at least find the right person there.

If you still can’t find out the hiring manager’s name, here are several other greetings you can use:

Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
Dear Hiring Manager
To whom it may concern
Dear [Department] Team

#4. Create an attention-grabbing introduction

Recruiters get hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of applications. Chances are, they’re not going to be reading every single cover letter end-to-end.

So, it’s essential to catch their attention from the very first paragraph.

The problem with most cover letter opening paragraphs, though, is that they’re usually extremely generic, often looking something like this:

Hey, my name is Jonathan and I’d like to work as a Sales Manager at XYZ Inc. I’ve worked as a sales manager at MadeUpCompany Inc. for 5+ years, so I believe that I’d be a good fit for the position.

As you can probably tell, this opening paragraph doesn’t tell the hiring manager anything other than that you’ve worked the job before - and that’s not really helpful in setting you apart from other candidates.

What you want to do, instead, is start off with 2-3 of your top achievements to really grab the reader’s attention. Preferably, the achievements should be as relevant as possible to the position.

For example:

My name’s Michael and I’d like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed its sales goals as a Sales Manager. I’ve worked with Company X, a fin-tech company, for 3+ years. As a Sales Representative, I generated an average of $30,000+ in sales per month (beating the KPIs by around 40%). I believe that my previous industry experience, as well as my excellence in sales, makes me the right candidate for the role of X at Company Y.

The second example shows how the candidate is a top performer. The first just shows that they’ve worked a sales job before.

Which one are YOU more likely to invite for an interview?

#5. Show you’re the perfect person for the job

One great thing about cover letters is that they allow you to expand more on the top achievements from your resume and really show the hiring manager that you’re the right person for the job.

A good way to do that is to first read the job ad and really understand what skills/experiences are required, and then to ensure that your cover letter touches upon the said skills or experiences.

In my previous role as a Facebook Marketing Expert at XYZ Inc. I handled customer acquisition through ads, managing a monthly Facebook ad budget of $20,000+. As the sole digital marketer at the company, I managed the ad creation and management process end-to-end. This means I created the ad copy and images, as well as picked the targeting, ran optimization trials, and so on.

Other than Facebook advertising, I’ve also delved into other online PPC channels, including:

Google Search

#6. Explain why you’re a great company fit

The HR manager doesn’t only look at whether you’ll be good at the job or not. They’re looking for someone that’s also a good fit for the company culture.

After all, employees that don’t fit in are bound to quit, sooner or later. This ends up costing the company a ton of money, up to 50% of the employee’s annual salary .

To convince the hiring manager that you’re a great company fit, do some research on the company and find out what it is you like about them, or about working there. You want to know things like:

What’s the company’s business model?
What’s the company's product or service? Have you used it?
What’s the culture like? Will someone micro-manage your work, or will you have autonomy on how you get things done?

Then, turn your top reasons for liking to work there into text and add them to your cover letter!

#7. Wrap up with a call to action

To make the end of your cover letter as memorable as possible, you want to:

Wrap up any points you couldn't in the previous paragraphs. Mention anything you’ve left out that you think could help the hiring manager make up your mind.
Thank the hiring manager for their time. After all, it never hurts to be polite.
Finish the cover letter with a call to action. A call to action is a great way to make your cover letter ending as memorable as possible.

#8. Write a formal closing

Once you’re done with the final paragraph, all you have to do is write down a formal “goodbye” and you’re good to go.

Feel free to use one of the most popular conclusions in a cover letter:

Best Regards,
Kind Regards,

#9. Proofread your cover letter

Last but not least, make sure to always proofread each and every document that you’ll be including in your job application - cover letter included.

The last thing you want is to be claiming you’re a great candidate for the job with a cover letter full of typos!

For an even more comprehensive guide on how to write an impactful cover letter , check out our article !

Cover Letter Writing Checklist

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you still have some questions about cover letters? Check out the answers below:

1. How do I write a simple cover letter?

To write a cover letter that’s simple but also professional, make sure to include a header with your personal information, a formal greeting to the hiring manager, an attention-grabbing opening paragraph, a second paragraph explaining why you’re a good candidate for the job, and a formal closing (preferably with a call to action).

2. What are the 3 parts of a cover letter?

The three parts of a cover letter are:

The introduction , namely the header, the greeting to the hiring manager, and the opening paragraph.
The sales pitch is usually the body of the cover letter.
The conclusion involves a formal closing and a signature line.

3. What makes a great cover letter?

A great cover letter should be personalized for each job you’re applying for, instead of being overly generic. It’s also preferable to address the hiring manager by their name and not use the overly-used “Dear Sir/Madam.”

To make a great first impression, you should mention 1-2 of your top achievements in your opening paragraph - the more job-specific they are, the better. Also, don’t stop at showing the hiring manager why you’re a great candidate for the job. Make sure to also talk about how you’re a good culture fit for the company.

Last but not least, wrap up your closing paragraph with a call to action to give the hiring manager a little extra something to remember you by.

4. When is a cover letter necessary?

Unless the job ad specifically states otherwise, you should always include a cover letter with your job application .

Even if the hiring manager doesn’t read it, you will look more professional simply by including one.

And that’s a wrap! We hope our cover letter examples and writing tips will inspire you to write a cover letter that will land you your next job.

If you’re looking for more invaluable career advice and articles, make sure to check out our career blog , or any of these related articles:

How to Write a Resume
Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid at All Costs
Cover Letter Format (w/ Examples & Free Templates)

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Resumes & cover letters: Cover letter templates

A cover letter is often your first communication with a potential employer, and therefore it is vital that when writing a cover letter you make it compelling and professional from the very first line, marking you out as a candidate they need to contact.

A good cover letter is an opportunity to showcase your written communication skills and your motivation for applying for the role. Writing a cover letter customised to the job demonstrates you have taken the time to put some effort into your application. You can also use a cover letter as an opportunity to highlight and provide more detail on any specific skills or experience which are relevant to the role you are applying for.

To help you structure your cover letter, we’ve developed 4 free cover letter templates and cover letter samples you can use to write a cover letter that will catch the eye of hiring managers and recruiters and increase your chances of getting an interview. For additional tips and advice on cover letter writing, check out our article How to write a cover letter .

Download our free cover letter templates

Cover letter template 1: response to a job ad, cover letter template 2: response to a job ad, cover letter template 3: letter to a recruiter on linkedin, cover letter template 4: ‘cold contact’ prospecting letter to a hiring manager.

Dear [name]:

I’m writing in response to your recently advertised position for a [role title]. I am very interested in this opportunity with [company] and believe that my qualifications, education and professional experience would make me
a strong candidate for the position.

I am a [insert personal characteristics] professional who [add more information on how you can add value to future company]. (You can insert short version of your career profile here).

Enclosed is my resume that more fully details my background and work experience, and how they relate to your position. As you can see, [pick out a few key details or experiences that align with the specific requirements of the advertised
role].

I firmly believe that I can be a valuable asset to your team. I welcome the opportunity to speak with you about this position and how my experience could help [insert name of company] achieve its goals.

Thank you in advance for your consideration.

Kind regards,

[Your name]

Dear Mr/Ms [name]:

I’m writing to express my interest in the recently advertised [position title] role. I believe I could bring valuable skills and experience to [company name] that would make me an ideal fit for this position.

I have [number] years of experience as a [your professional role/title] and in this time I have [briefly outline your experience in current or previous roles and mention key responsibilities and achievements].

[In this paragraph, outline how you specifically fit the requirements of the advertised role and mirror the language used in the job ad].

[In this paragraph, reinforce your unique selling proposition, what you have to offer and why you are an ideal fit].

Thank you for taking the time to consider my application, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely,

[Your name]

Dear [name]:

I came across your profile on LinkedIn and see that you are a recruitment specialist in [insert sector].

As a [insert your role title/function] interested in new positions in the [insert city] area, I would be keen to find out more about the positions you place and whether your agency might be able to assist me in my search.

I have [insert number] years of experience in the industry and most recently I have [insert a brief outline of your recent professional experience]. My key skills are [insert a few key points or strengths] and my career highlights
include:

[In this paragraph, summarise your unique selling proposition – Example: “I am a strong and effective communicator and proven leader, able to navigate the corporate environment and respond to its demands.”]

I look forward to discussing my potential to contribute to your clients’ [or organisation’s] needs. Please do not hesitate to contact me on [insert mobile number].

Kind regards,

[Your name]

Dear [name]:

I have been researching your company with great interest and would be very keen to learn of any opportunities for employment with you. I believe my skills and experience could be a great match with your organisation’s initiatives
and culture. [In your opening, if you can draw any personal connection, such as a personal recommendation, recently attending one of their events or talks, or even reading about their company in the news, do so.]

As a [insert your role title/function] with [number] years of experience in the sector, I believe I could make a valuable contribution to furthering your company’s success and goals. [Briefly outline your experience and emphasise
any skills and strengths that would benefit the company. Mention any projects you’ve worked on that relate to what the company does.]

My career highlights include:

I have been very excited to learn about [cite some development, project or aspect of the company that appeals to you and demonstrates your knowledge of the company. Now explain how you would contribute to the company’s projects,
put forward an idea or demonstrate how you can help the company grow.]

I believe that my experience would make me an ideal fit for [company name]. I have attached my resume to provide more information about my background and would appreciate the opportunity to discuss how I may be able to contribute to
your organisation. I will call you next week to arrange a time to meet at your convenience, but please do not hesitate to contact me at [insert email address and mobile number].

Kind regards,

[Your name]

Do you need a cover letter in 2024?

Do you need a cover letter? We've got your covered with cover letter examples

Crafting a professional resume and great cover letters takes time during a job search, and many job seekers will eventually find themselves asking, “Do I really need a cover letter?”, "What's a good example of a cover letter?" and "Who can I go to for cover letter advice?".

With job seekers today outnumbering jobs by as much as 106-to-one , the competition to secure employment has intensified. For those seeking work, a career change or their dream job, it’s often a toss-up between perfecting every resume and creating a good cover letter or getting out as many applications as possible.

So, are cover letters a must-have for every job posting? Also, what makes a great cover letter ? Would it be helpful to review a sample cover letter? What does a hiring manager look for? Where can I find the best cover letter examples?

We take a look at when you need one, when you don’t, and how to get the most out of cover letters. We'll also share cover letter examples that you can use to create a great cover letter for your job application.

When is a cover letter essential?

First and foremost, you need to include a good cover letter in any job listing that specifically asks for one. Leaving a cover letter out when it’s requested almost guarantees that you’ll be passed over for applicants who took the time to write one.

If you have a fairly extensive professional history outlined on your resume, a cover letter is also useful for highlighting the skills and experience most relevant to the job in question.

On the other hand, if you’re applying for a dream job but don’t have a huge amount of relevant experience, a cover letter is a good opportunity to communicate your passion for the industry and role, highlight transferable skills, personal value and tell a story about why you should be given a job interview even if you aren’t the most qualified candidate.

You may have heard that cover letters are no longer necessary, but consider your compelling cover letter as another opportunity to sell yourself for the job and stand out to the hiring manager. Creating your own cover letter template can also help you write personalised cover letters for multiple career opportunities saving you some time in the writing process.

Read next : How to write an outstanding cover letter

When is a cover letter not needed?

There are some scenarios in which you don’t need a cover letter, such as when there’s nowhere to upload it in a job application or when you’re applying to someone you have worked with before or know well – or if the hiring manager has advised that one is not necessary. If you’re unsure, though, it’s best to err on the side of caution and include an effective cover letter to show you’re serious about the job. If you’re working with a hiring manager or recruiter representing a potential employer, it’s best to ask directly.

Even if a cover letter isn’t necessary, remember that a resume still isn’t the be-all and end-all.

Your professional profile extends to your LinkedIn and other social media profiles , and even a dedicated online portfolio (depending on your industry). With this in mind, it’s important to keep your social profiles up to date and relevant to the jobs you’re applying for in case the hiring manager reviews these.

Related: 8 ways to perfect your ‘social resume’

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In a competitive job market, the importance of crafting a professional resume and a compelling cover letter cannot be overstated. Here are the key takeaways for when and how to use cover letters effectively in your job application process:

Cover letters are essential when:

The job listing specifically requests one.
Highlighting specific skills and experiences relevant to the job.
Demonstrating passion and transferable skills for candidates lacking direct experience.

Scenarios where a cover letter may not be necessary:

The application process does not allow for one.
Applying to a known contact or when advised against by the hiring manager.
Always include one if unsure, to show dedication to the role.

Beyond the cover letter:

Maintain updated and relevant LinkedIn and other social media profiles.
These profiles extend your professional image and may be reviewed by hiring managers.

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How To Address A Cover Letter In Australia (With Examples)

Dear Hiring Manager?

(36 votes, average: 4.6 out of 5)

Contributing Editor | HR, careers & job search

I founded three separate companies over the past decade to help leaders and organisations do their best work. Arielle Executive helps leaders get noticed while Arielle Partners & Talent Avenue connect organisations to Australia's best leadership talent.

Last updated: September 18th, 2023

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A well-written cover letter is essential for ensuring that your job application gets noticed by Australian hiring managers and recruiters.

However, you must address your cover letter correctly – and to the right contact person. Make a misstep here, and you’ll immediately send the wrong message to a potential employer.

Why Is It Important To Address Your Cover Letter Correctly?

A personal, precise greeting tells the hiring manager that you’ve invested time and effort into finding their contact details.

While this may seem like a trivial detail, it kicks off your relationship on the right foot by:

Building a connection.
Positioning you as a conscientious candidate with strong attention to detail.

The WRONG Way To Address Your Cover Letter.

Australian employers want to see your personality come through on your cover letter, but not to the point where it looks too casual and/or unprofessional.

Avoid the following, or any variations thereof:

“Hey, Tom!’
“Hola, Hiring Manager.”
“Sup Boss”

Who To Address Your Cover Letter To?

Ideally, you should target your cover letter to the person making the hiring decision.

In a small business, this may be the Managing Director or owner.
In a large business , this will probably be the hiring manager or a department head.
If the business uses an external recruitment firm , you should address the cover letter to the recruiter.

Getting the person’s title and gender is helpful, but the most important detail you need to list is the person’s actual name.

(Related: Best Resume And Cover Letter Builders in Australia ).

How To Find The Recipient’s Name.

There are a few steps that you can follow to make sure that your cover letter has the correct address at its beginning. If one step doesn’t work, then try the others.

1. Use The Job Description.

Job descriptions frequently – though not always – contain the hiring manager’s or the recruiter’s contact details.

The more senior the role is, the more likely the JD is to include a point of contact.

Expert Tip.

If all you have is a job ad that’s published by a recruitment firm rather than a company’s internal talent team (logos are a dead giveaway), you can always call the firm’s front desk and find out who on their team specialises in your type of role.

This Seek job ad doesn’t provide a recruiter’s details, but the recruitment firm’s name is clearly visible.

After hopping across into LinkedIn and discovering that Finite IT Recruitment Solutions has 123 employees, I narrowed my focus down to 39 people by filtering in only people with the word “Consultant” in the job title.

Using this method, it’s often possible to narrow your pool of possible targets to 1-3 people.

2. Use The Company Website.

Look for an “About Us” or “Our Team” page, with the names and roles of all their key employees.

Poke around until you understand their organisational structure well enough to find the most appropriate person.

Depending on company size, it will likely be one of the following:

The solo internal recruiter (e.g., “Recruitment Manager” or “Talent Acquisition Manager”)
The internal recruiter who specialises in your field (e.g., Recruiter – Sales).
Head of the department you’re likely applying to (e.g., Head of Sales).

If this approach doesn’t provide enough detail, call the company and ask for clarification. Explain that you’re applying for a role and would like to make a positive first impression by getting the hiring manager’s name right.

3. Use LinkedIn.

Find the company’s LinkedIn page, bring up the full list of its employees, and then use the filters to find either the head of the department you’re applying for, or the internal recruitment professional.

It’s often surprisingly easy to find the right person – even if the company is huge.

For example, if you were applying for a sales role with HubSpot in Australia, a LinkedIn search that filters out everyone except employees with the title “sales” would bring up 25 people.

You’ll need to use common sense and further research to narrow the list down further, but 25 people at a publicly listed global company with 883 million in revenue isn’t a bad starting point.

What If You Can’t Find The Hiring Manager’s Name?

If you have followed my earlier tips and could not find the name of the right person, you have the option of targeting the title.

Depending on the size and structure of the company, you’ll need to aim at either:

1. The Department Head.

Target your future boss or their boss. For example:

“Dear Head of Marketing”
“Dear CTO”
“Dear Sales Director”

2. The Head Of Talent Acquisition.

Companies increasingly roll up their recruitment and HR teams under the overall umbrella of “People and Culture”. Your cover letter could aim at any of the following:

“Dear Recruitment Manager”
“Dear Talent Acquisition Manager”
“Dear Head of People”

Larger companies with multiple departments and complex hierarchies are more challenging to target precisely. It’s not the end of the world if you can’t narrow your options down to one person. As long as you can make an educated guess that makes logical sense, you’ll be fine.

Can I Use The Hiring Manager’s First Name Only?

Yes, but tread with caution. Unless you’re certain that the company’s culture is very informal, it’s probably safer to use the person’s last name.

If you do use the first name only, the traditional approach is to prefix it with a title like “Mr” or “Mrs”, although a simple “Hello” is increasingly common.

Can I Use “To Whom It May Concern”?

Only as the very last resort. It’s distant, impersonal, and hints that you didn’t try to find the hiring manager’s real contact details.

Can I Use “Dear Sir/Madam”?

Same as above.

Can I Use “Dear Hiring Manager”?

Can i assume marital status.

I suggest you don’t. If you do get it wrong, you’ll end up looking unprofessional.

Instead of taking a stab guessing whether your hiring manager is a “Mrs” or a “Miss” Costanza, I suggest you stick to the more general “Ms” for all female recipients.

“Mr” is OK for all men, regardless of marital status.

Using gendered titles is becoming increasingly problematic. Avoid the possibility of misgendering someone by using a simple “Hello Jackie”.

How To Deal With Academic Titles?

Academic titles like “Dr” and “Professor” overrule the traditional “Mr” and “Mrs”. If you’re not sure, search the University’s website for the academic’s profile page.

What Is A Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a targeted career marketing document, which you must tailor to every job that you apply for.

It is a place to demonstrate to the recruiter why you are so interested in this particular role and why you’re a better fit than every other candidate.

While your resume provides an overview of your work history and commercial value, your cover letter is a 10-second elevator pitch that spotlights your most relevant and important accomplishments.

Your cover letter must be written in a professional tone, and be less than 1 page in length.

Cover letters should not be copied and pasted, because they need to be customised to the requirements of each job and each employer.

Do Recruiters And Hiring Managers Even Read Cover Letters?

I conducted a survey, which revealed that about 2/3 of recruiters and hiring managers never read cover letters.

As with most complex issues, the devil is in the details.

See, most cover letters get thrown in the bin not because hiring managers aren’t interested in cover letters per se, but because 90% of cover letters are generic, untargeted and dull.

Hiring managers don’t have an aversion to reading cover letters; rather, they have an aversion to cover letters that don’t reveal anything new, unique or valuable about the candidate.

Now that you know this fact, use it as an opportunity to set yourself apart from other job seekers:

Write the best cover letter you can
Target it to each role
Ensure it’s not a carbon copy of your resume

Which Font Type And Size Should You Use On Your Cover Letter?

The styling of your cover letter should match that of your resume. Start with the following parameters and micro-adjust if necessary:

Your Name : 32 points, Arial Nova, bold
Your Title : 13 points, Arial Nova, bold
Cover Letter Heading : 20 points, Calibri, all caps
Cover Letter Body : 11 points, Calibri

All the best in your job search!

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Before you begin

Brainstorm real-world examples

Gather contact details

Create a cover letter people care about in 5 steps

1. Write a targeted introduction

2. Explore your history and connect it with the role

3. Address the recruitment criteria in detail

4. Refine your elevator pitch

5. Make a closing statement

Before you hit send

Proofread, leave it a day, then proofread again

Ask someone you trust in the same industry to read it for you

Double-check the details

Take a moment to breathe and visualise

Organise your resume

Send it away!

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