Cover letter template with examples
A cover letter is a short note that explains why you fit one specific job. Keep it to half a page, address a person if you can, and use three of its four paragraphs for evidence from your own work. Copy the template below and replace every bracket.
At a glance
- Length: 200 to 350 words.
- One letter per job. Reuse the structure, not the text.
- Mirror the job post's main requirements with real examples.
- Close with a clear next step.
- Send as the employer asks: pasted in the email, PDF or an upload field.
Template
Subject: Application for [Job Title], [Your Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],
I am applying for the [Job Title] role at [Company]. [One sentence on why this role or company, based on something specific.]
In my current role as [Title] at [Employer], I [what you did] and [result, with a number only if true]. This is relevant because the role needs [requirement from the posting].
I also [second example: project, skill, tool] which matches [second requirement]. [Optional: one line on a gap or change, if it needs explaining.]
I would welcome a conversation about how I can help [team or goal]. My resume is attached, and I can be reached at [phone] or [email].
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely, [Your Name]
Filled example
Dear Ms. Alvarez,
I am applying for the Office Coordinator role at Riverside Dental. I have worked in small clinics before, and the post's focus on patient scheduling matches the work I enjoy most.
In my current role as front desk assistant, I manage appointment books for three providers and send reminder calls each day, which helped cut late arrivals in my area. This matters because your post asks for someone who keeps a busy schedule running.
I also trained two new colleagues on our records software and wrote a one-page guide that the team still uses.
I would welcome a conversation. My resume is attached, and I can be reached at the number below.
Sincerely, Dana Kim
(Replace the example with your own facts. Only state results that you can support.)
What to change every time
| Item | Action |
|---|---|
| Name and title | Check spelling. Use "Dear Hiring Team" if there is no name |
| Reason for interest | Make it specific to the company |
| Evidence | Choose two requirements from the post |
| Tone | Match the employer's style, formal or relaxed |
Mistakes
- Repeating the resume line by line.
- Starting with "To whom it may concern".
- Writing about what you want rather than what you offer.
- Typing the wrong company name.
Frequently asked questions
Is a cover letter required? Only if the posting asks. If optional, a good short one can help, especially for career changes.
Can I use AI to write it? You can use tools for a first version, but edit so the facts and voice are yours. Plan-based resume AI on LiveRec is described in the resume AI article.
How do I address a gap? One short sentence, or leave it for the interview. See the gap guide.
Next step
Pick one posting and fill the template in 20 minutes, then read it aloud once.
This page is general career information.