How to write a cover letter that gets read
A cover letter is a short letter sent with your resume. It tells the employer why you want this job and why you are a good fit — in your own words. A good one is short, specific and about the employer, not just about you.
The four-paragraph structure
1. Opening: the job and why you fit
Name the job you are applying for and give one sentence on why you are a strong match — your experience and two or three key skills from the job advert.
2. Your best achievements
Pick one or two real results, ideally with numbers, that prove you can do this job. Don’t repeat your whole resume.
3. Why this company
Say something specific you like about the company — its products, customers, values or growth — and how you would help.
4. Closing
Thank them, say you would like to talk, and sign off politely.
Which greeting and sign-off?
| Situation | Greeting | Sign-off |
|---|---|---|
| You know the person’s name (UK) | Dear Ms Patel, | Yours sincerely, |
| You don’t know the name (UK) | Dear Hiring Manager, | Yours faithfully, |
| USA and most other places | Dear Ms Patel, / Dear Hiring Manager, | Sincerely, / Kind regards, |
Mistakes to avoid
- Too long. Keep it to one page — three or four short paragraphs.
- Generic. “I am a hard-working team player” could be anyone. Use a real example instead.
- Wrong company name. When you reuse a letter, double-check every name.
- All about you. Show how you will help them.
- Typos. Read it aloud before sending.
Write yours in minutes
Our free cover letter builder writes a first draft from your resume — your job title, years of experience, top skills and best achievements — in the same design as your resume. You fill in why you like the company, change anything you want, and download a clean PDF. No sign-up, no watermark.