Just like in the CV guide, we’re now going to create your base cover letter that’s targeted for one job type.

I know it can feel like a drag, but writing a cover letter becomes quick and painless when you’ve got a solid template you can quickly tweak for each role, and that’s what you’ll get in this guide.

Why you should write a cover letter

Having a cover letter will help you throughout the entire job search process. 

• Many application portals still require one, so for certain jobs you won’t have a choice.

• It’s multipurpose – you can reuse it for follow-ups, email applications and LinkedIn DMs to hiring managers.

• It can increase your chances of getting an interview, as plenty of hiring managers still say they love a good cover letter and favour candidates who made the effort.

• Writing one forces you to get clear on what you bring to the table and why you’re applying to a particular company, which helps you prepare for interviews.

What to include

In the template provided below, you’ll just need to fill in the placeholders. But before you do, there’s a few things to keep in mind.

In terms of the format and layout, aim for 4 short, sharp paragraphs. Big walls of text are less likely to be read and are more likely to be assumed as AI-generated drivel.

What to include in each paragraph:

Paragraph 1 – Clearly state the job title you’re applying for

Recruiters are usually juggling multiple roles, so make it easy for them to know exactly which role you’re applying to.

Paragraph 2 – Connect your experience to the role 

Review the job description and identify the single most important thing the company wants you to do. This is usually in the job overview/summary or the first few requirements. 

Once you’ve found it, explain how you do this really well and back it up with evidence – include a specific example or achievement that shows you’ve done it successfully before. The goal of this paragraph is to clearly prove you can do the core part of the job.

Paragraph 3 – Explain your “why”

We all work for money, but from the hiring company’s perspective, they want to make the least risky hire. If a candidate is genuinely interested in working for them, they will be perceived as less of a flight risk.

That is why it helps to include a genuine reason why you want to work for the company.

So, how do you find a genuine reason aside from a pay cheque? Look at their website, press releases and social media to see if anything resonates with you. Then pick one or two things and mention them in your cover letter.

Some examples:

• You use their product and want to help make it better.

• You’re excited about a new strategy, market or initiative they’ve announced.

• You know someone who’s worked there and they spoke highly of the culture.

• You like the work they do for the local community.

Whatever you choose, keep it specific and avoid the cliché line “I’ve always admired your company.” 

The template below includes three angles to help you find your “why.”

Paragraph 4 – Closing and call to action

Use this final paragraph to briefly reaffirm your fit, mention that you look forward to the next steps, and include your name, email and phone number so they can easily contact you.

That’s the lot. Once you have written your cover letter for one job, the heavy lifting is done. For each new application, all you need to do is make a few minor tweaks and update the “why this company” section.

Cover letter template

Access the formatted cover letter template in Google Docs here or you can copy the text below.

To use this template:

• Edit in Google Docs: Click File > Make a copy.

• Edit in Word: Click File > Download > Microsoft Word.

[Date]

[Hiring manager’s name]   

[Hiring manager’s job title]

[Company name]

[Address]

[Hiring manager’s email]

Re: [Name of job title you are applying for]

Dear Mr/Mrs. [Hiring manager’s surname],

I am writing to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. 

As a [Enter your current job title - related to the job you’re applying to] with [Number of years experience you have in the role] years of experience in [List the most important things you do in your job - match them with the job requirements], I am confident that my skills make me a strong candidate to fulfil [Company Name] [Name of the department you are applying to]’s needs. 

My most recent role was at [Mention the company you worked] where I [Include an achievement from your work experience that's related to the job description].

I was thrilled to see an opportunity to join your team for several reasons. Firstly, the role would allow me to continue pursuing my passion. [Reference what the role will allow you to do - something you enjoy doing]. Secondly, I personally identify with [Company Name]’s core values. I share the belief that [Mention a value or values that you share with the company - and explain why the value is important to you]. Last but not least, I’d be delighted to contribute to an organisation that’s leading the charge on [Mention what charitable/sustainable/social initiatives the company is working on or have done in the past].

I feel that my broad experience in [Name the industry you have experience in] combined with my ability to [Reference the most important responsibility of the job here - that you can do], would make a valuable contribution to your company.

[If applying by email or direct message include the line: I have attached my CV for your consideration.]. Thank you for your time in reviewing my application.

I look forward to hearing from you at your earliest convenience.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

[Your Email]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your LinkedIn URL]

Start your job search on Rodeo

Now that your CV and cover letter are ready, it’s time to find your next role on Rodeo. We've got over 70,000 live job listings in the UK. Start applying here.

Next steps: job search strategies

In the next guide, we'll go through different tools, tricks and strategies for finding jobs and converting applications into interviews.

Access the job search guide here.