writing in a cover letter

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How to write a great cover letter in 2024: tips and structure

A cover letter is a personalized letter that introduces you to a potential employer, highlights your qualifications, and explains why you're a strong fit for a specific job.

Hate or love them, these brief documents allow job seekers to make an impression and stand out from the pile of other applications. Penning a thoughtful cover letter shows the hiring team you care about earning the position.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to write a cover letter — and a great one, at that.

What is a cover letter and why does it matter?

A professional cover letter is a one-page document you submit alongside your CV or resume as part of a job application. Typically, they’re about half a page or around 150–300 words.

An effective cover letter doesn’t just rehash your CV; it’s your chance to highlight your proudest moments, explain why you want the job, and state plainly what you bring to the table.

Show the reviewer you’re likable, talented, and will add to the company’s culture . You can refer to previous jobs and other information from your CV, but only if it helps tell a story about you and your career choices .

What 3 things should you include in a cover letter?

A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out to potential employers. To make your cover letter shine, here are three key elements to include:

1. Personalization

Address the hiring manager or recruiter by name whenever possible. If the job posting doesn't include a name, research to find out who will be reviewing applications. Personalizing your cover letter shows that you've taken the time to tailor your application to the specific company and role.

2. Highlight relevant achievements and skills

Emphasize your most relevant skills , experiences, and accomplishments that directly relate to the job you're applying for. Provide specific examples of how your skills have benefited previous employers and how they can contribute to the prospective employer's success. Use quantifiable achievements , such as improved efficiency, cost savings, or project success, to demonstrate your impact.

3. Show enthusiasm and fit

Express your enthusiasm for the company and the position you're applying for. Explain why you are interested in this role and believe you are a good fit for the organization. Mention how your values, goals, and skills align with the company's mission and culture. Demonstrating that you've done your research can make a significant impression.

What do hiring managers look for in a cover letter?

Employers look for several key elements in a cover letter. These include:

Employers want to see that your cover letter is specifically tailored to the position you are applying for. It should demonstrate how your skills, experiences, and qualifications align with the job requirements.

Clear and concise writing

A well-written cover letter is concise, easy to read, and error-free. Employers appreciate clear and effective communication skills , so make sure your cover letter showcases your ability to express yourself effectively.

Demonstrated knowledge of the company

Employers want to see that you are genuinely interested in their organization. Mention specific details about the company, such as recent achievements or projects, to show that you are enthusiastic about joining their team.

Achievements and accomplishments

Highlight your relevant achievements and accomplishments that demonstrate your qualifications for the position. Use specific examples to showcase your skills and show how they can benefit the employer.

Enthusiasm and motivation

Employers want to hire candidates who are excited about the opportunity and motivated to contribute to the company's success. Express your enthusiasm and passion for the role and explain why you are interested in working for the company.

Professionalism

A cover letter should be professional in tone and presentation. Use formal language, address the hiring manager appropriately, and follow standard business letter formatting.

How do you structure a cover letter?

A well-structured cover letter follows a specific format that makes it easy for the reader to understand your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position. Here's a typical structure for a cover letter:

Contact information

Include your name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of the letter. Place your contact information at the beginning so that it's easy for the employer to reach you.

Employer's contact information

Opening paragraph, middle paragraph(s), closing paragraph, complimentary close, additional contact information.

Repeat your contact information (name, phone number, and email) at the end of the letter, just in case the employer needs it for quick reference.

Remember to keep your cover letter concise and focused. It should typically be no more than one page in length. Proofread your letter carefully to ensure it is free from spelling and grammatical errors. Tailor each cover letter to the specific job application to make it as relevant and impactful as possible.

How to write a good cover letter (with examples)

The best letters are unique, tailored to the job description, and written in your voice — but that doesn’t mean you can’t use a job cover letter template.

Great cover letters contain the same basic elements and flow a certain way. Take a look at this cover letter structure for ref erence while you construct your own.

1. Add a header and contact information

While reading your cover letter, the recruiter shouldn’t have to look far to find who wrote it. Your document should include a basic heading with the following information:

• Pronouns (optional)
• Location (optional)
• Email address
• Phone number (optional)
• Relevant links, such as your LinkedIn profile , portfolio, or personal website (optional)

You can pull this information directly from your CV. Put it together, and it will look something like this:

Christopher Pike

San Francisco, California

[email protected]

Alternatively, if the posting asks you to submit your cover letter in the body of an email, you can include this information in your signature. For example:

Warm regards,

Catherine Janeway

Bloomington, Indiana

[email protected]

(555) 999 - 2222

2. Include a personal greeting

Always begin your cover letter by addressing the hiring manager — preferably by name. You can use the person’s first and last name. Make sure to include a relevant title, like Dr., Mr., or Ms. For example, “Dear Mr. John Doe.”

Avoid generic openings like “To whom it may concern,” “Dear sir or madam,” or “Dear hiring manager.” These introductions sound impersonal — like you’re copy-pasting cover letters — and can work against you in the hiring process.

Be careful, though. When using someone’s name, you don’t want to use the wrong title or accidentally misgender someone. If in doubt, using only their name is enough. You could also opt for a gender-neutral title, like Mx.

Make sure you’re addressing the right person in your letter — ideally, the person who’s making the final hiring decision. This isn’t always specified in the job posting, so you may have to do some research to learn the name of the hiring manager.

3. Draw them in with an opening story

The opening paragraph of your cover letter should hook the reader. You want it to be memorable, conversational, and extremely relevant to the job you’re pursuing. 

There’s no need for a personal introduction — you’ve already included your name in the heading. But you should make reference to the job you’re applying for. A simple “Thank you for considering my application for the role of [job title] at [company],” will suffice.

Then you can get into the “Why” of your job application. Drive home what makes this specific job and this company so appealing to you. Perhaps you’re a fan of their products, you’re passionate about their mission, or you love their brand voice. Whatever the case, this section is where you share your enthusiasm for the role.

Here’s an example opening paragraph. In this scenario, you’re applying for a digital marketing role at a bicycle company:

“Dear Mr. John Doe,

Thank you for considering my application for the role of Marketing Coordinator at Bits n’ Bikes.

My parents bought my first bike at one of your stores. I’ll never forget the freedom I felt when I learned to ride it. My father removed my training wheels, and my mom sent me barrelling down the street. You provide joy to families across the country — and I want to be part of that.”

4. Emphasize why you’re best for the job

Your next paragraphs should be focused on the role you’re applying to. Highlight your skill set and why you’re a good fit for the needs and expectations associated with the position. Hiring managers want to know what you’ll bring to the job, not just any role.

Start by studying the job description for hints. What problem are they trying to solve with this hire? What skills and qualifications do they mention first or more than once? These are indicators of what’s important to the hiring manager.

Search for details that match your experience and interests. For example, if you’re excited about a fast-paced job in public relations, you might look for these elements in a posting:

• They want someone who can write social media posts and blog content on tight deadlines
• They value collaboration and input from every team member
• They need a planner who can come up with strong PR strategies

Highlight how you fulfill these requirements:

“I’ve always been a strong writer. From blog posts to social media, my content pulls in readers and drives traffic to product pages. For example, when I worked at Bits n’ Bikes, I developed a strategic blog series about bike maintenance that increased our sales of spare parts and tools by 50% — we could see it in our web metrics.

Thanks to the input of all of our team members, including our bike mechanics, my content delivered results.”

5. End with a strong closing paragraph and sign off gracefully

Your closing paragraph is your final chance to hammer home your enthusiasm about the role and your unique ability to fill it. Reiterate the main points you explained in the body paragraphs and remind the reader of what you bring to the table.

You can also use the end of your letter to relay other important details, like whether you’re willing to relocate for the job.

When choosing a sign-off, opt for a phrase that sounds professional and genuine. Reliable options include “Sincerely” and “Kind regards.”

Here’s a strong closing statement for you to consider:

“I believe my enthusiasm, skills, and work experience as a PR professional will serve Bits n’ Bikes very well. I would love to meet to further discuss my value-add as your next Director of Public Relations. Thank you for your consideration. I hope we speak soon.

Tips to write a great cover letter that compliments your resume

When writing your own letter, try not to copy the example excerpts word-for-word. Instead, use this cover letter structure as a baseline to organize your ideas. Then, as you’re writing, use these extra cover letter tips to add your personal touch:

• Keep your cover letter different from your resume : Your cover letter should not duplicate the information on your resume. Instead, it should provide context and explanations for key points in your resume, emphasizing how your qualifications match the specific job you're applying for.
• Customize your cover letter . Tailor your cover letter for each job application. Address the specific needs of the company and the job posting, demonstrating that you've done your homework and understand their requirements.
• Show enthusiasm and fit . Express your enthusiasm for the company and position in the cover letter. Explain why you are interested in working for this company and how your values, goals, and skills align with their mission and culture.
• Use keywords . Incorporate keywords from the job description and industry terms in your cover letter. This can help your application pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and demonstrate that you're well-versed in the field.
• Keep it concise . Your cover letter should be succinct and to the point, typically no more than one page. Focus on the most compelling qualifications and experiences that directly support your application.
• Be professional . Maintain a professional tone and structure in your cover letter. Proofread it carefully to ensure there are no errors.
• Address any gaps or concerns . If there are gaps or concerns in your resume, such as employment gaps or a change in career direction, briefly address them in your cover letter. Explain any relevant circumstances and how they have shaped your qualifications and determination.
• Provide a call to action . Conclude your cover letter with a call to action, inviting the employer to contact you for further discussion. Mention that you've attached your resume for their reference.
• Follow the correct format . Use a standard cover letter format like the one above, including your contact information, a formal salutation, introductory and closing paragraphs, and your signature. Ensure that it complements your resume without redundancy.
• Pick the right voice and tone . Try to write like yourself, but adapt to the tone and voice of the company. Look at the job listing, company website, and social media posts. Do they sound fun and quirky, stoic and professional, or somewhere in-between? This guides your writing style.
• Tell your story . You’re an individual with unique expertise, motivators, and years of experience. Tie the pieces together with a great story. Introduce how you arrived at this point in your career, where you hope to go , and how this prospective company fits in your journey. You can also explain any career changes in your resume.
• Show, don’t tell . Anyone can say they’re a problem solver. Why should a recruiter take their word for it if they don’t back it up with examples? Instead of naming your skills, show them in action. Describe situations where you rose to the task, and quantify your success when you can.
• Be honest . Avoid highlighting skills you don’t have. This will backfire if they ask you about them in an interview. Instead, shift focus to the ways in which you stand out.
• Avoid clichés and bullet points . These are signs of lazy writing. Do your best to be original from the first paragraph to the final one. This highlights your individuality and demonstrates the care you put into the letter.
• Proofread . Always spellcheck your cover letter. Look for typos, grammatical errors, and proper flow. We suggest reading it out loud. If it sounds natural rolling off the tongue, it will read naturally as well.

Common cover letter writing FAQs

How long should a cover letter be.

A cover letter should generally be concise and to the point. It is recommended to keep it to one page or less, focusing on the most relevant information that highlights your qualifications and fits the job requirements.

Should I include personal information in a cover letter?

While it's important to introduce yourself and provide your contact information, avoid including personal details such as your age, marital status, or unrelated hobbies. Instead, focus on presenting your professional qualifications and aligning them with the job requirements.

Can I use the same cover letter for multiple job applications?

While it may be tempting to reuse a cover letter, it is best to tailor each cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. This allows you to highlight why you are a good fit for that particular role and show genuine interest in the company.

Do I need to address my cover letter to a specific person?

Whenever possible, it is advisable to address your cover letter to a specific person, such as the hiring manager or recruiter. If the job posting does not provide this information, try to research and find the appropriate contact. If all else fails, you can use a generic salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager."

Should I include references in my cover letter?

It is generally not necessary to include references in your cover letter. Save this information for when the employer explicitly requests it. Instead, focus on showcasing your qualifications and achievements that make you a strong candidate for the position.

It’s time to start writing your stand-out cover letter

The hardest part of writing is getting started. 

Hopefully, our tips gave you some jumping-off points and confidence . But if you’re really stuck, looking at cover letter examples and resume templates will help you decide where to get started. 

There are numerous sample cover letters available online. Just remember that you’re a unique, well-rounded person, and your cover letter should reflect that. Using our structure, you can tell your story while highlighting your passion for the role. 

Doing your research, including strong examples of your skills, and being courteous is how to write a strong cover letter. Take a breath , flex your fingers, and get typing. Before you know it, your job search will lead to a job interview.

If you want more personalized guidance, a specialized career coach can help review, edit, and guide you through creating a great cover letter that sticks.

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Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

3 cover letter examples to help you catch a hiring manager’s attention

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How to write a standout cover letter

Learn what a cover letter is, why you need one and what to include.

Whether you’re applying to schools or searching for scholarships, co-ops, internships or jobs, you may be asked to include a cover letter.

Cover letters can be a useful addition to any application or resume, highlighting your experience, personality and passions, and how they align with the job description.

Before you start writing, be sure to understand the purpose of a cover letter and the benefits of including one in your job search.

What is the purpose of a cover letter?

A cover letter introduces you to potential employers, highlights your qualifications, and explains why you're a good fit for the position. It complements your resume by providing context and personality — it should not simply relay the same information that is on your resume.

Cover letter vs resume

A resume is a list providing the facts about your qualifications and experience. You can generally use the same resume across applications.

A cover letter is a narrative piece explaining why you're applying and why you're a good fit for the job. It should be highly personalized for each job application.

Together, a resume and cover letter offer a comprehensive view of your qualifications and demonstrate both your interest and ability to succeed in the role you're applying for.

Benefits of cover letters

Make your application stand out : When the job market is competitive and employers are looking at many qualified applicants, take every opportunity to stand out. Research shows a cover letter can make your application 38% more likely to get noticed. As many as 45% of employers may skip over an application that’s lacking a cover letter. A cover letter can give you the competitive edge.

Help you prepare for an interview : All the steps required to write a good cover letter are the same needed to prepare for an interview. You want to connect your skills and experience to the company’s needs and illustrate why you’d be a great employee.

Show off your writing skills : If the role you’re applying for requires strong writing skills, a cover letter is a perfect opportunity for you to highlight those. Beyond relaying information about yourself, a cover letter can also serve as a writing sample, showcasing your ability to communicate effectively and write succinctly. Even if writing is not a primary part of the job, good communication skills are always desirable.

Find your Next

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Our faculty and staff are the driving force behind student success, and it’s through a culture of diversity, innovation and collaboration that UC jobs shape tomorrow.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your career, apply to work at UC today .

Frequently asked questions about cover letters

The answers to your questions about cover letters, plus hacks and tips.

Do I need a cover letter?

In 2024, some employers are foregoing the longtime trend of requiring a cover letter. And it is true that cover letters don’t always get read. But a majority of recruiters still want and expect them, even if it’s optional to include.

So, a few may view the cover letter as outdated, but there’s no harm in including a well-written piece that conveys information about you that’s not covered in your resume. At the very least it demonstrates that you took the time to articulate your desire for the job. That alone can elevate your standing.

In short, when in doubt, it’s always better to include one than not. Never forget to attach a cover letter when specifically asked to include one.

Can I use a template?

Yes, using a template can help you structure your letter. Just make sure to customize it for each application to reflect your personality and the specific position. 

Here’s a cover letter template to get you started.

A note on artificial intelligence (AI)

It’s no secret that AI tools like ChatGPT can produce a cover letter in seconds. In fact, those tools can be a helpful starting point when crafting a cover letter. But because of the importance of personalization in cover letters, it is crucial to only use those prompts as an outline or suggestion, and always elaborate with your own personal language.

Nearly a third of job applicants are said to use the same generic cover letter. That’s a huge mistake to avoid. A tailored, thoughtful cover letter can really capture a recruiter’s attention.

Is it necessary to customize each cover letter?

Absolutely. Personalizing each cover letter to reflect the job and company shows genuine interest and helps you stand out. Highlight specific skills and experiences that align with the job description, like co-ops and internships .

How long should a cover letter be?

A cover letter should ideally be one page, typically consisting of three to four paragraphs. Keep it concise and focused on relevant information.

How to make your cover letter stand out

Writing a standout cover letter involves creativity, personalization and a clear demonstration of your value. Here are some tips to help you make your cover letter memorable:

Personalize your content

• Tailor it to the company : Research the company’s culture, mission and recent achievements. Mention specific details that resonate with you and relate to the role.
• Address the hiring manager : Whenever possible, use the hiring manager’s name instead of a generic greeting.

Showcase your unique value

• Highlight your key achievements : Use quantifiable achievements to demonstrate your skills. Back up your examples with real-life results — using statistics when you can — to show how your contributions saved a company time or money. For example: In my last role, I increased sales by 30% through targeted marketing strategies.
• Connect your skills to company needs : Clearly illustrate how your skills and experiences directly address the company’s challenges or goals.

Inject your personality

• Be authentic : Let your voice shine through. Use a conversational tone, but maintain professionalism. Share a personal story that highlights your passion for the field.

Keep it concise and focused

• Limit to one page : Get to the point quickly while still being engaging. Avoid unnecessary fluff and focus on what’s most relevant to the position.

Use a strong opening, customize your content every time, demonstrate your unique value with specific achievements, and let your personality shine through while maintaining professionalism.

How to write and format a cover letter

Writing a cover letter can be a key part of your job application. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you craft an effective one.

The basics: Font and format

• Use a professional font (like Arial or Times New Roman, size 10-12), maintain standard margins, and align text to the left.
• Your name and contact information at the top.
• Employer’s name and contact information.
• A formal greeting (e.g., “Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],”).
• Tip : If you’re applying for a more creative or untraditional role, you can have a little more fun with it. But don’t go overboard: Let your experience speak for itself.

First paragraph: Start with a strong opening

• Hook the reader : Begin with an engaging statement or anecdote related to the job or industry. For example: As a lifelong advocate for sustainable practices, I was thrilled to see the opening for [Position] at [Company].
• Introduce yourself, state the position you're applying for, and mention how you found the job listing (e.g., job board, company website, personal reference).

Body paragraphs: Tell a story

• First paragraph : Highlight your relevant experience or skills. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you meet the job requirements.
• Second paragraph : Discuss why you’re interested in the company and the position. Show that you’ve researched the company and align with its values or goals.
• Third paragraph (optional): Include any additional information that may strengthen your application (e.g., certifications, relevant projects).

Closing paragraph: End with a call to action

• Express enthusiasm : Reiterate your excitement about the opportunity and your eagerness to discuss how you can contribute.
• Include a follow-up statement : For example: I would love to discuss my application in more detail and explore how I can help [Company] achieve its goals.
• Thank the reader for considering your application.
• Use a professional closing (e.g., “Sincerely,” “Best regards,”) followed by your name.

Before you begin

Do your research.

• Study the job description . It’s a goldmine of information and a helpful guide for your cover letter. Get a solid idea of what the company wants from prospective employees.
• Scour the company’s website, LinkedIn page and other resources to learn more about the organization. Find examples of work you’d be doing in the role.
• Your top priority when writing your cover letter and preparing for interviews is to align your skills and experiences with the qualities they’re looking for. Use specific examples.

Final thoughts

If you're a recent graduate trying to make your applications stand out, a cover letter might just give you an edge, which might be exactly what you need to get an interview and stand out from other applicants.

Not all cover letters get read, but most recruiters still expect cover letters to indicate effort and interest. A personalized cover letter can help boost the visibility of your application, which is crucial for entry-level positions, where distinguishing your application from other applicants is key.

Cover letters provide an opportunity to highlight how your specific skills align with the job requirements. This can all make up for having less experience right out of college.

A cover letter allows you to directly align your skills with the job requirements. Use it to demonstrate how your background and abilities make you a suitable candidate. This is really helpful for early-career applicants who may lack direct experience but might have relevant skills, coursework or projects to show their potential value to the employer.

You can use your cover letter to write a narrative around your resume, so the hiring manager understands why you're the perfect fit.

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