A good CV shows what you've done. A good cover letter explains why you want this particular job and why you're the right person for it. Many applicants skip it or send a generic template, which is exactly why a thoughtful one stands out. This guide shows you how to write a cover letter that recruiters actually want to read, with examples for each section.

Do You Still Need a Cover Letter?

Not every employer asks for one, but many hiring managers still read them, especially for competitive roles, small companies and career changes. A cover letter lets you:

  • show genuine interest in the company,
  • connect your experience directly to the role,
  • explain career gaps or a change of direction,
  • show your communication skills and personality.

If it's optional, write one anyway. It's a chance to stand out.

Cover Letter Format

  • Length: three to five short paragraphs, under one page (roughly 250–400 words).
  • Font and style: match your CV for a consistent look.
  • File type: PDF unless another format is requested.
  • Greeting: use the hiring manager's name if you can find it.

Cover Letter Structure

1. Header and Greeting

Include your name and contact details, the date and the company's details if you're sending a formal letter. Address the hiring manager by name: "Dear Ms Adebayo". If you can't find a name after checking LinkedIn and the company site, use "Dear Hiring Manager".

2. Opening Paragraph: Hook Them

Skip "I am writing to apply for...". Instead, open with enthusiasm and a strong reason you're a fit.

Example:

After three years helping online retailers grow their email revenue by an average of 40%, I was excited to see Brightcart's opening for an Email Marketing Manager. Your focus on customer-first communication is exactly how I like to work.

3. Middle Paragraph(s): Prove Your Value

Pick two or three requirements from the job description and show, with examples, how you meet them. Use numbers where possible.

Example:

At Nova Retail, I rebuilt the welcome email sequence, increasing first-purchase conversions by 27%. I also introduced segmentation based on browsing behaviour, which lifted click rates from 2.1% to 3.8%. I'd bring the same data-driven approach to Brightcart's lifecycle campaigns.

4. Why This Company?

Show you've done your research. Mention a product, value, recent achievement or mission that genuinely appeals to you.

I've followed Brightcart's growth since your sustainable packaging launch, and I'd love to help tell that story to more customers.

5. Closing Paragraph: Call to Action

Thank them, restate your interest and invite the next step.

Thank you for considering my application. I'd welcome the opportunity to discuss how I can help Brightcart grow its email programme. I'm available for an interview at your convenience.

Sign off with "Kind regards" or "Sincerely", followed by your name.

How to Tailor a Cover Letter for Each Job

Tailoring doesn't mean writing from scratch every time. Keep a strong base letter, then change:

  • the company name and hiring manager,
  • the opening hook,
  • the two or three examples you highlight, based on each job's requirements,
  • the "why this company" paragraph.

This takes 15–20 minutes but greatly improves your chances.

Cover Letter Tips for Special Situations

No Experience

Focus on education, projects, volunteering, transferable skills and enthusiasm. Explain what you've done to prepare for the role, such as courses or personal projects.

Career Change

Explain why you're changing and how your past experience transfers. For example, a teacher moving into training or instructional design has strong presentation and curriculum skills.

Employment Gap

Address it briefly and positively: "After taking a year to care for a family member, I completed a certification in project management and am excited to return to the workforce."

Common Cover Letter Mistakes

  • Repeating your CV word for word.
  • Using the wrong company name (always double-check).
  • Focusing on what you want rather than what you offer.
  • Being too long or too formal.
  • Spelling and grammar mistakes.
  • Generic phrases like "I am a hard-working team player" without proof.

Cover Letter Checklist

  • Addressed to a named person where possible
  • Strong, specific opening line
  • Two or three achievements matched to the job
  • Evidence of company research
  • Clear closing and call to action
  • Under one page
  • Proofread and saved as PDF

Should You Send a Cover Letter by Email?

Sometimes you apply by email rather than through a portal. In that case, your email itself acts as a short cover letter. Keep the email to a few sentences: the role you're applying for, one line on why you're a strong match and a note that your CV and full cover letter are attached. Use a clear subject line such as "Application: Email Marketing Manager – Jane Okoro". Attach both documents as PDFs with professional file names, and send a test email to yourself first to check everything looks right.

How to Find the Hiring Manager's Name

  • Read the job advert carefully; the name is sometimes included.
  • Search LinkedIn for the company plus the team or department.
  • Check the company's "Team" or "About" page.
  • Call reception and politely ask who leads the team.

A named greeting shows effort and immediately makes your letter feel personal.

Using AI to Help Write Your Cover Letter

AI tools can help you brainstorm or polish a draft, but don't send AI-generated text without editing. Recruiters can spot generic writing. Add your real examples, numbers and personality. See our guide to using AI chatbots effectively for better prompts.

Final Thoughts

A great cover letter is short, specific and personal. Hook the reader, prove your value with examples, show why you want this company and end with a clear next step. Pair it with a tailored CV (see our guide on how to write a CV) and you'll give yourself the best chance of landing an interview.