How to Write a Cover Letter: Essential Tips, Templates, and Examples for Every Job Seeker

A well-written cover letter can be the deciding factor between landing an interview or getting overlooked. Unlike your resume, a cover letter lets you tell your story, explaining why you’re the best candidate for the role and how your skills, values, and experience align with the company's needs.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to write a cover letter that stands out, complete with examples, templates, and formatting tips for internships, teaching positions, and even medical jobs. We’ll also highlight essential keywords to help you navigate applicant tracking systems (ATS) and make a great first impression.

Why Cover Letters Matter

A cover letter isn’t just an attachment to your resume. It’s a personalized pitch that allows you to:

  • Address the hiring manager directly.
  • Highlight your most relevant skills and experience.
  • Explain why you’re interested in the specific role.
  • Set yourself apart from other applicants by showcasing your unique qualities.

Step-By-Step Guide to Writing Your Cover Letter

Writing a cover letter doesn’t have to be a challenge. Follow these steps to make your letter clear, concise, and compelling.

1. Start with a Strong Opening Statement

Personalize the greeting whenever possible by addressing the hiring manager by name. If the job listing doesn’t mention a name, a professional greeting such as “Dear Hiring Manager” works well.

Example:

Dear Hiring Manager, I am writing to inquire about the opening for the Graduate Software Engineer position at THG. With my professional experience and expertise in statistics and programming, I am confident that I have the drive, knowledge, and technical skills needed to be the perfect addition to your company.

2. Mention the Job Title and Highlight Key Skills Early

Hiring managers and ATS filters look for keywords that align with the job description. In your opening paragraph, mention the specific role you’re applying for and highlight some of the top skills listed in the job posting.

Example:

As a candidate for the Graduate Software Engineer role, I bring a solid foundation in programming and problem-solving, developed through academic projects and internships, along with a strong record of academic achievement.

Cover Letter Examples for Different Job Types

Cover Letter Examples for Internships

Internships are often the first step in a career journey. Since experience is limited, emphasize relevant coursework, school projects, and enthusiasm for learning.

Example:

As a recent graduate with a major in Marketing, I am thrilled at the opportunity to bring my skills to the Digital Marketing Internship at Itsu. In my recent university project, I managed a social media campaign that increased engagement by 20%, showing my ability to connect with online audiences.

Teaching Cover Letter Examples

When applying for teaching roles, emphasize your teaching philosophy, certifications, and experience working with students. A tailored teaching cover letter is particularly important as it reflects your approach to education.

Example:

With three years of experience as a certified elementary teacher, I am dedicated to fostering a supportive and enriching environment for students. At School A, I implemented interactive lessons that boosted student engagement by 30% and was recognized for my collaborative approach with fellow teachers.

Medical CV and Cover Letter Examples

For roles in healthcare, your cover letter should highlight your certifications, specializations, and hands-on experience. Since the medical field often requires precision and empathy, let these qualities shine through.

Example:

As a registered nurse with over five years of experience in ER settings, I am skilled at providing compassionate care under high-stress situations. My role at [Hospital Name] allowed me to work with diverse patient populations and manage patient care effectively. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my skills to your dedicated team.

Tips for Writing an Effective Cover Letter

Want to make your cover letter as effective as possible? Here are some proven tips:

  • Use Keywords from the Job Description: Using keywords like “cover letter examples for internship,” “teaching cover letter examples,” or “medical CV examples” ensures your cover letter aligns with ATS requirements and job-specific terms.
  • Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, add quantifiable achievements (e.g., “increased sales by 25%”) to highlight the impact you’ve had in past roles.
  • Showcase Your Unique Skills and Value: Go beyond the basic requirements in the job posting. If you bring any unique skills or experiences, mention them in a way that shows how they’ll benefit the company.
  • Keep It Concise: Stick to 3-4 paragraphs to keep your letter focused and avoid overloading it with details. Each sentence should add value and maintain interest.

Free Cover Letter Templates in Word

To help job seekers get started quickly, we’ve provided links to free cover letter templates in Word for different job types. Using these templates can save you time while ensuring that your cover letter looks polished and professional.

Example: