Looking for a new job, but not sure how to make your application stand out? Knowing how to write a cover letter could make all the difference…
Writing a cover letter is an essential part of almost every job application. Not only do you have to make sure it sells your skills and abilities to recruiters, you also need to do it in a clear and concise manner that persuades the reader to want to meet you.
We’ve already covered what a cover letter is, here’s our step-by-step guide on how to write a cover letter:
“A great cover letter isn’t just a formality, but your chance to make a personal connection. Use it to show why you’re right for the role, what you bring to the team and why this job matters to you. Keep it clear, confident and tailored for each job application.”
Simon Millar, Business Manager | Reed
How to start a cover letter
1. Do your research
Your cover letter shouldn’t just be about you; it should also be tailored for the role you’re applying for.
To make sure it ticks all the boxes for employers, take some time to answer the following questions before you start writing:
- What does the company do?
- What are their values and mission?
- Who is their target audience or client base?
- What are the key responsibilities and required skills listed in the job advert?
2. Figure out how your skills match
Once you’ve reviewed the job advert, note down the essential skills, experience and qualifications they’re asking for.
Then, bullet point your own strengths and achievements that relate to each one.
Doing this makes it easier to show how you meet the requirements when you start writing – and helps you avoid sending a generic cover letter.
3. Find the right person to address
Whenever possible, address your letter to a named contact. Usually, this will be shown somewhere in the job advert – and if not, don’t be afraid to find out.
Start by visiting the company’s website to track down the name of a relevant recipient. If you have no luck there – there’s no harm in simply calling and asking.
Not only will you be able to address your letter accurately, you’ll also demonstrate your initiative and genuine interest in the role.
How to format a cover letter
Your cover letter should be well-presented, concise and to-the-point. Here’s our advice on layout, font, and length:
Cover letter layout
A clean, professional layout is key. Here’s a basic structure:
- Your contact information (top right corner)
- Date
- Employer’s contact information
- Greeting (e.g. Dear Ms Smith)
- Introduction
- Body paragraphs (2–3)
- Closing paragraph
- Sign-off and name
Cover letter font and style
- Use professional fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman
- Font size: 11 or 12 pt
- Avoid colours, emojis, or elaborate formatting
How long should a cover letter be?
Keep it short and to the point, aiming for:
- Around half a page to one full A4 page
- 250–300 words
How to address a cover letter
How to find the hiring manager’s name
Cover letters should be addressed to the person dealing with the application. Usually, this will be shown somewhere in the job advert. If not, you can find out by checking the company website, LinkedIn, or by contacting the company directly.
What to write if you have a name
Use “Dear Mr Smith” or “Dear Ms Jones”
If you’re unsure of gender, use the full name instead (e.g. “Dear Alex Smith”)
What to write if you don’t
If you can’t find a name: “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear Recruitment Team” are both safe bets.
What to include in a cover letter
Although there are no set rules on how your cover letter should be structured, making sure it flows well is vital if you want to impress recruiters.
Here’s a rough guideline on how to structure a cover letter:
Opening paragraph: Why are you getting in touch?
Start by stating the role you’re applying for, where you saw it advertised, and why it caught your interest.
Example: I am writing to apply for the position of Marketing Coordinator, as advertised on Reed.co.uk. With a strong background in content creation and campaign management, I’m excited by the opportunity to contribute to your dynamic team.
Second paragraph: Why are you suitable for the job?
Talk about your relevant skills, qualifications or experience. Highlight what makes you a good match for the role based on the job description.
Example: In my previous role at XYZ Ltd, I managed a social media portfolio that grew followers by 300% in 12 months. My degree in Communications and certification in digital marketing have equipped me with both the creative and analytical skills needed for this role.
Third paragraph: What can you do for the company?
Explain how you can benefit the company. Use achievements and results to back up your points.
Example: I thrive in fast-paced environments and pride myself on delivering high-impact campaigns. At my last company, I increased email click-through rates by 40% through A/B testing and improved targeting.
Final paragraph: Reiterate
Reiterate your interest in the role and include a polite call to action.
Example: I’m enthusiastic about the opportunity to bring my skills to your team and would welcome the chance to discuss how I can contribute to your marketing goals. Thank you for considering my application.
How to sign off a cover letter
- If using a name: “Yours sincerely”
- If no name: “Yours faithfully”
Then add your full name underneath.
How to tailor your cover letter for different situations
Depending on what you’re applying for, your cover letter will need a slightly different approach. Here are some examples to help you adapt it:
How to write a cover letter for a job
Follow the layout and guidance above, but make sure to personalise every section to match the specific job advert and employer. Highlight the skills and experience that make you a strong candidate, and show genuine interest in the role.
How to write a personal statement for job applications
I need a job: where do I start?
How to write a cover letter for a university or master’s course
If you’re applying for a university or postgraduate course, use your cover letter to show your motivation for the subject area, highlight any relevant academic achievements or work experience, and explain how your goals align with what the course offers.
Example snippet: I am applying for the MSc in Environmental Policy because I am passionate about tackling the climate crisis through evidence-based solutions. My undergraduate studies in Geography, combined with my internship at a local sustainability NGO, have given me a solid foundation in environmental issues. I’m eager to deepen my expertise and contribute to meaningful policy change.
How to write a postgraduate personal statement
How to write a personal statement for university
How to write a cover letter for an internship
When applying for an internship, focus on your education and interest in the industry. Refer to relevant coursework, university projects, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your skills and enthusiasm.
Example snippet: As a second-year Business Management student at XYZ University, I’m keen to gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced organisation like yours. My recent group project on market entry strategies helped me develop research and analytical skills that I’d love to apply in a real-world setting.
Internships: What you need to know
How to write a cover letter with no experience
If you don’t have formal work experience, highlight transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Use examples from volunteering, school, part-time roles, or even online courses, to show your strengths and demonstrate your enthusiasm and willingness to learn.
Example snippet: While I don’t yet have formal work experience, I recently completed a customer service training course and volunteered at a local charity shop. These experiences helped me develop strong people skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure.
Five easy jobs to do without experience
Dos and don’ts when writing a cover letter
✅ Do:
- Tailor your cover letter to each job you apply for
- Focus on what you can offer the employer, not just what you’re looking for
- Back up your skills with examples and achievements
- Keep your language clear and natural
- Proofread carefully before submitting
❌ Don’t:
- Send the same letter to every employer
- Be too vague or generic (e.g. “I am hardworking and reliable”)
- Repeat your CV word-for-word
- Use jargon or buzzwords you can’t back up (e.g. “results-driven team player”)
- Forget to check spelling and grammar
Five things you need to stop doing on your cover letter
How to overcome common cover letter problems
Six tips to help your cover letter stand out
Once you’ve structured your cover letter and tailored it to the job, it’s time to fine-tune it. These tips will help you add polish and make a strong impression:
1. Use numbers and examples
Backing up your achievements with real data shows employers what you can deliver. Be specific where possible and use measurable results.
For example:
- Increased sales by 25%
- Reduced customer complaints by 40%
- Trained 10 new team members
2. Be specific about why you’re a good fit
Demonstrate your understanding of the company and explain why you want to work there. Mention what you admire about their work, values, or recent initiatives to show genuine interest. For example:
‘I was impressed by your recent sustainability initiative and would love to be part of a company that values both innovation and environmental responsibility.’
3. Keep it concise
Your cover letter should be no longer than one A4 page – so avoid repeating your CV word-for-word and focus on key highlights that support your application.
4. Use a clear layout
Choose a simple, professional font and format your letter with short paragraphs and clear spacing. This makes it easier to read and shows attention to detail.
5. Tailor your tone
Match the tone of your letter to the company and industry. For creative roles, a more conversational tone may work well; for formal industries, keep it professional and to the point.
6. Always proofread
Before submitting, read your letter aloud to catch any awkward phrasing. Use a spellchecker, and if you can, ask a friend or colleague to review it too. Spelling or grammar mistakes could cost you the interview.
Cover letter templates and examples
Looking for a sample cover letter to download? Our free cover letter templates will help you get started.
Whether you’re looking for a simple template, or you’re writing a cover letter in a particular situation (such as just after graduating or following a career break), we’ve got you covered.
- Basic cover letter example
message here
By clicking Submit, you accept our Terms & Conditions and consent to receive emails and career related topics. See our Privacy policy for details. Continue without submitting
- Recent graduate cover letter example
message here
By clicking Submit, you accept our Terms & Conditions and consent to receive emails and career related topics. See our Privacy policy for details. Continue without submitting
- Career break cover letter example
message here
By clicking Submit, you accept our Terms & Conditions and consent to receive emails and career related topics. See our Privacy policy for details. Continue without submitting
- Redundancy cover letter example
message here
By clicking Submit, you accept our Terms & Conditions and consent to receive emails and career related topics. See our Privacy policy for details. Continue without submitting
Other cover letter samples you could use include a cover letter template for school leavers, focussing more on academic achievements, and a cover letter template for part-time work.
For additional guidance on specific templates, read more about cover letter examples and samples here.
View all free cover letter templates
Final thoughts
Writing a great cover letter isn’t just about ticking boxes – it’s your chance to make a strong first impression.
By tailoring your letter to the role, showing enthusiasm and providing clear examples of your strengths, you’ll give yourself the best possible chance of being invited to interview. Even a few sentences can set you apart from other candidates. So take the time to write something that reflects who you are and why you’re a great fit.
And remember, never send the same cover letter for every job.
Ready to get started? Download our free cover letter template now, or explore the latest jobs on Reed.co.uk to find your next opportunity.
this is all very well but what do you write if you have no previous experience to the job and no qualifictions and you have only done dead end jobs for over 30 years… how can one sell ones “skills” when those “skills” are very basic there are loads of adverts for jobs that say “trainee” “career development” yet in reality the training is basic and one ends up stuck at the bottom as there is no real career development its all just PR
You tell them about all your positive attributes – hard working, punctual, self-motivated, energetic your willingness to learn and succeed in anything you do in life and how that makes you an ideal candidate to add to the continual success at “add company name”
I agree with what you say however in todays world unless you have a first class honours degree from oxford or Cambridge ( or some other uni) unless you are member of this club or that club unless you commit 18 hours daily to your “JOB” unless your face fits unless you have supr confidence without arrogance, with the “right experience” you may as well just put your face between your legs and kiss your a..e goodbye,, cause you will never make it to anymore than dead end low skilled undervalued underpaid low prospects no employment future whatsoever…
you can write all you like about what you say … be as positive as positive can be … (Lets face it … any human can be trained to do any job) … but life don’t work like that.
essentially, what you’re saying is that one has to cultivate skills in order to have skills. DUH
in today’s world the most important is the attitude and with such attitude as yours you won’t go far… there is always an option and a way to achieve something, if only you truly want it!
Very helpful thank you!