A cover letter (aka covering letter or job application letter) is required to apply for jobs in the UK. Our UK cover letter examples show you how to write a cover letter and tailor your covering letter to the role you want to work in.

Check out our matching CV examples to learn how to write your own and complete your job application.

Table of Contents

  1. 6 cover letter samples to look at
  2. 49 cover letters examples by industry
  3. FAQs

6 cover letter samples

Here are 6 common types of cover letters:

1. Copy-and-paste cover letter sample

Use this text copy-and-paste blank cover letter sample to get instructions on filling in your letter:

A blank fill-in cover letter example for free download using the Bristol CV template
Download this cover letter example for Microsoft Word.

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Copy and Paste This CV Example

 

YOUR NAME
Current/Desired Job Title

07123 456 789 | LinkedIn.com/in/your.name | email@email.com | Street, City, AA1 1AA

Today’s Date

Contact Person’s Name
Company Name
Street Address
Town
Postcode
(07321) 654 987
contact.person@email.com

Dear [Mr/Ms/Mx] [Contact Person’s Name],

Your cover letter opening should contain a self-introduction. Write about who you are, where your expertise lies, which open job you’re applying for, where you found the job posting, and why you want to apply for the job.

In 2–3 paragraphs, describe how your previous work experience, skills, and qualifications help you meet the company’s needs. To make that easier, include exact words and phrases from the job advert in your cover letter.

Research the company and find out what their current activities and goals are. Explain how you can help them achieve those goals.

Your cover letter’s closing paragraph is the ‘call-to-action’ portion of your cover letter. Inform the recruiting manager that you’d love to go in for an interview. Provide your email address and phone number again for the employer’s convenience. Thank them for spending their time reading your cover letter.

Yours sincerely,

Your Name

 

What makes this cover letter example effective?

A blank cover letter example is perfect if you know what you want to say but you don’t have time or ability to set up a good cover letter design yourself.

Instead of spending minutes — or even hours — adjusting margins, creating text boxes, and selecting cover letter fonts, just download our blank cover letter example and fill it in.

You can also pick out a blank CV design if you already know how to write a CV and just want a fill-in CV you can add your own information too.

2. Generic cover letter example with work experience

The standard cover letter below is what the vast majority of cover letters look like.
It uses a traditional cover letter structure that recruiting managers can easily read no matter the industry. In the first paragraph, the candidate:

  1. addresses the HR manager by name
  2. establishes where they found the job
  3. highlights some of their relevant experience
A generic cover letter example with a green header and a left-aligned body. Highlights in green, yellow, and orange point out features mentioned in the description of this cover letter example.
Download this cover letter example for Microsoft Word.

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Copy and Paste This CV Example

 

YOUR NAME
Current/Desired Job Title

07123 456 789 | LinkedIn.com/in/your.name | email@email.com | Street, City, AA1 1AA

Today’s Date

Contact Person’s Name
Company Name
Street Address
Town
Postcode
(07321) 654 987
contact.person@email.com

Dear Mr/Ms/Mx [Last Name],

I was excited to see the Business Analyst position at Harborough’s currently being advertised on reed.co.uk. As an experienced business analyst with over four years’ experience optimising business processes, evaluating risk, and analysing operations, I’m confident that I’d be the perfect fit for the role.

Your job description mentions that you’re looking for a candidate who has experience with agile methodologies such as Kanban. For the last two years, I’ve been working as a business analyst at Stafford Tech, where I’ve used Kanban extensively to streamline output. In fact, last year, Stafford’s newest app was released 4 months ahead of schedule due in large part to a more efficient task management system that I helped implement.

Additionally, I’m highly adept at identifying points of inefficiency in business processes. For example, in my previous role I managed to reduce development costs by 20% by creating a plan to merge several features our team was working on into one centralised product.

I look forward to discussing my application and qualifications with you further. I’ll follow up next week to make sure you’ve received my application.

Yours sincerely,

YOUR NAME

 

What makes this cover letter effective

This cover letter is formal, to-the-point, and detailed.

Within the first couple of paragraphs, the candidate summarises:

  • their interest in the role
  • how their experience makes them a great fit for the open role
  • how their abilities fill a specific need the company has

By referring back to the job advert, the candidate shows the employer they’re passionate about the position and have the skills they’re looking for.

Additionally, the candidate highlights some impressive accomplishments, all backed up with hard numbers. By including data, the candidate makes it clear what they can achieve for the employer.

This cover letter uses a professional cover letter template to give the application a polished look that impresses UK employers.

Finally, the applicant finishes with a professional call to action, requesting that the employer contact them for an interview.

Although this cover letter was written by a business analyst, the tone and format work well in any industry, making it a good general cover letter example.

3. Student cover letter example with no work experience

Are you a student looking for work while you’re studying? Here’s an example of a good cover letter written for a retail role by a student like you:

A student cover letter example in a green-themed template.
Download this cover letter example for Microsoft Word.

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Copy and Paste This CV Example

 

YOUR NAME
Current/Desired Job Title

07123 456 789 | LinkedIn.com/in/your.name | email@email.com | Street, City, AA1 1AA

Today’s Date

Contact Person’s Name
Company Name
Street Address
Town
Postcode
(07321) 654 987
contact.person@email.com

Dear [Mr/Ms/Mx] [Contact Person’s Name],

When I saw Fashion Fanatic’s advert seeking a Part-Time Retail Associate, I just had to apply. As an undergraduate student pursuing a Business Administration degree and a dream of one day opening my own retail store, I believe I’m the ideal fit for your open role.

During my academic journey, I’ve consistently demonstrated my commitment to acquiring the skills necessary for a successful career in retail. Through various class projects and coursework, I’ve developed a deep understanding of retail management, consumer behaviour, and marketing strategies. These experiences both provided me with theoretical knowledge and honed my practical problem-solving abilities, which I believe are essential in a fast-paced industry like fashion retail.

One project I’m particularly proud of is my analysis of consumer preferences and purchasing behaviour in the fashion industry. This project allowed me to apply market research techniques to gain insights into customer trends and preferences. I believe that the analytical skills I acquired through this project, combined with my passion for staying updated with the latest fashion trends, will enable me to excel at Fashion Fanatic.

I look forward to the possibility of discussing how my skills and experiences align with your company’s goals during an interview. I can be reached on 07123 456 789 or at youremail@email.com to schedule a suitable time.

Yours sincerely,

Your Name

 

What makes this cover letter effective

This is a great cover letter example because the student makes up for their lack of work experience by connecting their academic experience to their target job.

They also highlight a specific uni project that developed skills they’d use if hired.

When you write your cover letter and CV as a student or recent graduate with no work experience, you should also highlight your job-relevant:

4. Cover letter example for a recent graduate

Writing a cover letter that gets employers’ attention will help you smoothly transition from university to a rewarding career. Take a look at this graduate cover letter example to get ideas for writing your letter:

A graduate cover letter example in a blue-themed template.
Download this cover letter example for Microsoft Word.

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Copy and Paste This CV Example

 

YOUR NAME
Current/Desired Job Title

07123 456 789 | LinkedIn.com/in/your.name | email@email.com | Street, City, AA1 1AA

Today’s Date

Contact Person’s Name
Company Name
Street Address
Town
Postcode
(07321) 654 987
contact.person@email.com

Dear [Mr/Ms/Mx] [Contact Person’s Name],

I’m writing to express my strong interest in the Administrative Assistant position at MetaMark posted on your website. As a recent graduate with a BA in Professional Administration, I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills, knowledge, and enthusiasm to support your company’s growth.

What truly sets me apart as a candidate for this position is my dedication to excellence in every task I undertake. I’m highly organised, meticulous, and possess exceptional time management skills. Additionally, my proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, allows me to handle various administrative tasks efficiently. I’m confident in my ability to assist your team in maintaining a streamlined and efficient office.

I’m also a proactive problem solver with a strong commitment to providing exceptional customer service. My experience working part time as a receptionist during my studies allowed me to hone my interpersonal skills and interact with a diverse range of individuals effectively. I’m confident in my ability to represent MetaMark with professionalism and courtesy in all interactions, both internal and external.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further and explore how I can contribute to MetaMark. You can reach me on 07123 456 789 or at your.name@email.com

Yours sincerely,

Your Name

 

What makes this cover letter effective

The applicant uses formal business letter formatting and opens with a formal introduction that shows the employer their professionalism — getting these details right is key to standing out in applicant pools filled with more experienced job seekers if you’re a graduate.

In the second paragraph, the candidate lists skills that match the requirements in the job advert.

Keywords from the job post will immediately catch the recruiting manager’s eye and give them the impression the applicant is a good fit for the role.

Another great feature of this cover letter example is that it connects the candidate’s part-time work to their target position. Although it’s only a part-time job, mentioning this bit of experience lets the employer know the applicant isn’t walking into their first real-world work situation.

5. Creative cover letter example

Applying for a role in the creative industries like graphic design or radio? Writing a creative cover letter with a bit of humour can help you stand out from other applicants and leave a great impression on employers.

This funny but professional cover letter example was written by an experienced candidate applying for a role at a popular UK podcast:

An example of a creative cover letter with square designs in the background and a teal colour scheme.
Download this cover letter example for Microsoft Word.

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Copy and Paste This CV Example

 

YOUR NAME
Current/Desired Job Title

07123 456 789 | LinkedIn.com/in/your.name | email@email.com | Street, City, AA1 1AA

Today’s Date

Contact Person’s Name
Company Name
Street Address
Town
Postcode
(07321) 654 987
contact.person@email.com

Dear [Mr/Ms/Mx] [Contact Person’s Name],

You’ve no doubt heard of the world-renowned Whack Jitehall podcast. Well, I’m the person who runs it! Now I’m interested in using everything I’ve learnt in my 5+ years of production experience to take your hilarious programme to the top of the podcast charts.

Why would I leave such a cushy job at a famous podcast? The answer is simple: I’m a massive fan of your content, and I’m looking for a new production challenge. When I heard on episode #214 of Footy Matters that you’re looking for a new producer, I did a double take and immediately began penning this cover letter.

Here’s some of the relevant experience I’ll bring with me to your programme:

  • At Whack Jitehall, I conceptualised and led our on-air talent to implement our most popular bits, including the Jack Whitehall impersonator jokes that have garnered 10+ mil. listens.
  • I was also the booker for Whack Jitehall, developing a global network of comedians and other celebrities who’d be perfect guests on your show.
  • I’m an expert at editing and tracking video/audio content in Adobe Premiere and Audition, Logic Pro, and Buzzsprout.

If you’re interested in learning more about me, feel free to contact me on 07123 456 789.

Yours sincerely,

Your Name

 

What makes this cover letter effective

This cover letter is effective because it balances professionalism and personality.

Adding personality to your cover letter is an effective way to stand out from other candidates and come across as creative and likeable. But it’s also important to maintain your professionalism. This cover letter offers a perfect mix of humour and reasons why the applicant is qualified for the position.

After a unique introduction, the candidate highlights some brief, impressive examples of their relevant abilities and achievements to prove they’ve got the required hard skills to handle the work.

This cover letter style is appropriate only if you’re applying to companies with a casual office culture. If you’re targeting formal corporate environments, use a professional tone so employers take your application seriously.

6. Concise cover letter example

Sometimes less is more. Check out how convincing this short cover letter is despite it being so concise:

A concise cover letter example featuring a blue line of varying thickness which separates the cover letter header from the body text.
Download this cover letter example for Microsoft Word.

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Copy and Paste This CV Example

 

YOUR NAME
Current/Desired Job Title

07123 456 789 | LinkedIn.com/in/your.name | email@email.com | Street, City, AA1 1AA

Today’s Date

Contact Person’s Name
Company Name
Street Address
Town
Postcode
(07321) 654 987
contact.person@email.com

Dear [Mr/Ms/Mx] [Contact Person’s Name],

As a registered nurse with 10 years of experience, I know I’ll be an excellent fit at Noble’s Hospital, the vacancy for which I found on indeed.co.uk.

I’ve provided excellent patient care throughout my career and have developed a caring and compassionate bedside manner to patients from all walks of life, as well as being experienced in diagnostic work and medicine administration.

I’m experienced in dealing with emergency medical situations and providing emotional support to patients and their loved ones. All of these traits make me an excellent fit for the role.

I look forward to receiving your call. You can contact me on 07123 456 789.

Yours sincerely,

Your Name

 

Why this cover letter example is so effective

This cover letter barely covers 1/3 of the page (excluding the cover letter header and recipient’s contact details). Despite that, it effectively conveys the applicant’s previous career achievements, like their unsurpassed patient care.

Not only that, but it talks about their qualifications and skills, such as their ability to handle medical emergencies and liaise with patients’ families.

This letter proves that sometimes, just mentioning one or two of your most impressive qualities is more effective than a long letter where you introduce an overwhelming laundry list of your accomplishments.

More great cover letter examples

  1. Cover letter examples for an internal position
  2. Email cover letter examples
  3. Speculative cover letter examples
  4. The best cover letter examples we’ve found
  5. Cover letter examples for a career change
  6. Cover letter for internship example

49 covering letter examples by industry

Here are all our cover letter examples for different industries. Just find the job you’re interested in by clicking on one of these categories:

  1. Administration & office support
  2. Business & professional services
  3. Creative & design
  4. Customer support & retail
  5. Education
  6. Engineering & skilled trades
  7. Food & hospitality
  8. Health & social care
  9. IT & marketing
  10. News & media

Administration & office support

Business & professional services

Creative & design

Customer support & retail

Education

Engineering & skilled trades

Food & hospitality

Health & social care

IT & marketing

News & media

Frequently asked questions about cover letter examples

Below, we answer 4 of the most commonly asked questions about cover letter examples:

1. How do you build a cover letter?

You build a cover letter either by:

  1. downloading a quality cover letter template online and filling it in by yourself
  2. using an AI-powered cover letter builder that asks you a few simple questions and lets you pick from pre-written, ready-formatted cover letter sentences

Build An Online Cover Letter

Each method has its own advantages, but a cover letter builder is substantially quicker — you can finish and download your cover letter in minutes.

You can also use a CV builder to make a professional CV quickly.

2. How can cover letter examples help me?

Great cover letter examples will give you strategies you can use to write and format your own cover letter.

You’ll quickly see what you should include in a cover letter for the job you want, and get some ideas for how to word your achievements.

3. What should be avoided in a cover letter?

Here’s what should be avoided in a cover letter:

  • typos
  • generic writing (address your cover letter to a named person and tailor your cover letter to the specific role)
  • writing more than one page
  • too small or large font sizes (stay between 10 and 12 points)
  • unprofessional fonts like Comic Sans or Papyrus (use a good cover letter font like Arial or Cambria instead)
  • negative comments about your current or previous employers

4. Can I trust AI-generated cover letter examples?

Reddit user u/atharvtathe brought up this subject.

AI-generated cover letter examples are getting better and better.

However, you can trust CV Genius’s collection of cover letter examples because they go through a vigorous editorial process:

  1. Firstly, one of our expert cover letter writers creates an example by researching the role, looking at real cover letter examples that got candidates jobs, and reviewing the typical career path of someone in the industry
  2. Secondly, an expert from the industry in question reviews the draft cover letter example to make sure it’s a cover letter good enough that they’d consider calling in the candidate for an interview
  3. Thirdly, a CPRW (certified professional CV and cover letter writer) approves the cover letter sample for publication on our site.
Samuel Johns, CPRW

Samuel Johns is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW), recruiting manager, and lead career counsellor on the CV Genius team, with almost 5 years of experience in the career space. He has helped countless job hunters craft high-quality CVs and cover letters, exceed expectations at interviews, and obtain their dream jobs. Born and raised in County Durham in the beautiful North East of England, he graduated with a BA (Hons) in French Language and Literature from the University of Bristol in 2013 and has worked in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, London, Paris, and Taipei as a French–English translator. He’s determined to use his native English and fluent French skills to help UK and French candidates get the jobs they deserve. In addition to the British and French versions of CV Genius, Samuel’s job-hunt advice has been published on numerous websites, including Careers.org, the University of Warwick, the Enterprisers Project, and HR.com. If you’d like to collaborate, please reach out to Samuel through LinkedIn. Please note, we don’t accept guest posts and won’t reply to such requests.