Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Cover Letter.
When applying for jobs, occasionally the employer will require a cover letter. I’m not an expert on cover letters or recruitment, but over the years I have gathered some information and advice that you might find useful.
Below is an example of a cover letter for informational purposes only. This isn’t a guarantee that you will get a job interview or an offer. (Yes, that’s the legal out of the way!)
The cover letter explains why you’re the right fit for the job. Your CV lists your skills and experience.
Here’s why you should include one:
Shows genuine interest – It shows that you have taken the time to learn about the company and role, rather than sending a general application.
Highlights key strengths – You can draw attention to the most relevant parts of your experience and explain how they match the job requirements.
Adds personality – It shows your communication style and professionalism, and this will help you stand out from other applicants.
Fills in gaps – You can explain things your CV can’t, such as career changes and employment gaps. Employment gaps could be due to family responsibilities, health or personal reasons, or things like being redundant and company closures.
Demonstrates effort – Employers often like to see a well-written cover letter as a sign of commitment and attention to detail.
A job application cover letter usually follows this structure:
Name
Address
Phone Number
Email Address
Date
Hiring Manager’s Name
Company Name
Company Address
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Opening paragraph:
Introduce yourself and state the job title/position you’re applying for. You can mention where you found the job listing and a reference number if there is one.
Second and third paragraph:
Explain why you’re a strong fit. Emphasise the skills, experience, and achievements that match the job description.
Closing paragraph:
Reaffirm your interest in the role and express your desire to discuss your application further. Thank them for their time and consideration.
Ending the letter:
If you know the name of the person you’re writing to, you should end the letter with ‘Yours sincerely’.
If you’ve addressed the letter ‘Dear Sir or Madam’, you should end the letter with ‘Yours faithfully’.
Followed by your full name
Here is an example of the above information.
Joe Bloggs
123 Jones Street
Manchester
M22 2YY
01215559090
joebloggs@outlook.com
12th February 2026
Mr. S. Smith
Work 4 Us
123 Work Street
Manchester
M22 2PP
Dear Mr S. Smith,
I am writing in response to your advertisement for the position of Customer Service Assistant that is advertised on the Indeed website, reference 0123456.
Throughout my career, I have demonstrated effective communication skills, managing email communications between departments and suppliers, and maintaining and updating customer and supplier databases.
My administrative support skills include organising and dispatching sample kit orders, performing general administrative tasks such as archiving, photocopying, laminating, and scanning, and preparing documents and arranging meetings.
I am an enthusiastic and approachable individual and can be available for an interview on short notice.
Thank you for taking the time to consider my application, and I welcome the opportunity to discuss the role further.
Yours sincerely
Joe Bloggs
Extra tips for UK cover letters:
- Write a new cover letter for each role you apply for and tailor it to the job advert.
- Keep it to one page.
- Address the letter to a specific person. If the job advert does not include their name, start with Dear Sir or Madam.
- If in the UK, use British English spelling and formatting.
- Use the same font and tone as your CV for consistency.
- Double-check your grammar and spelling.
Below are some links that you might find useful to help you with your cover letter.
- https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/contact-us – This website helps with getting work or education.
- https://www.wordtune.com/ – This website helps with grammar.
- https://app.grammarly.com/ – This website checks your grammar and spelling.
- https://www.reed.co.uk/career-advice/free-cover-letter-template/?msockid=1ea7a4d1782c61101f76b233790b6052
- https://uk.indeed.com/career-advice/cover-letter-examples
Found this useful? Share this post with your friends and family! Please let me know if you have any useful links in the comments section below.
