Decide what the letter needs to prove

Before writing, identify the two or three requirements most important to the role. Choose one strong example for each and research a specific reason the employer or work interests you.

If the application asks a direct question or sets a word limit, follow that instruction before any general template. A useful letter is normally one page and easy to scan.

Open with role and relevance

Name the vacancy and give a concise reason you are applying. Add a headline match rather than a generic claim of enthusiasm.

For example: 'I am applying for the Customer Support Adviser role. My experience resolving high-volume enquiries by phone and email, together with my focus on accurate case notes, matches the service priorities in your advert.'

Prove your fit in the middle

Use one or two short paragraphs to connect evidence to the role. Start with the employer's need, describe what you did and include a result where possible.

Do not copy CV bullets without explanation. The cover letter can show why the evidence matters: how you approached a problem, what you learned or how it prepares you for the new responsibility.

EXAMPLE

Your advert emphasises calm complaint handling. In my current retail role, I listen to the issue, check the transaction record and explain the available options clearly. This approach has helped me resolve concerns at first contact while keeping accurate notes for colleagues.

Show genuine employer interest

A specific sentence is enough. Mention the service, customers, training, product, mission or working approach that connects to your motivation. Use information you can verify from the employer's own material.

Avoid empty praise such as 'your amazing and prestigious company'. The purpose is to show that this is a considered application rather than a letter sent unchanged everywhere.

Close and check

Read the letter aloud. Long sentences, repeated ideas and vague phrases become easier to notice. Then compare it with the vacancy one final time: does the letter prove the things this employer actually asked for?

  • Confirm your interest and readiness to discuss the role.
  • Use 'Yours sincerely' when you know the recipient's name and 'Yours faithfully' when writing to Dear Hiring Manager.
  • Check the employer, role title and any reference number.
  • Remove unsupported claims and unnecessary adjectives.
  • Save in the requested format with a clear filename.

QUICK ANSWERS

Frequently asked questions

How long should a cover letter be?

Usually between half a page and one page. Follow any word limit in the application and prioritise relevance over length.

Do I need a cover letter when it is optional?

A concise, tailored letter can help when it adds context, explains motivation or connects transferable experience. Do not attach a generic letter simply to fill space.

Who should I address it to?

Use the named contact when one is provided. Otherwise, 'Dear Hiring Manager' is clear and professional.