Cover Letter Templates

A standard cover letter template in the UK and Ireland includes seven sections.

1. Cover letter header: Place your contact information at the top — with your name clearly visible — to create a good cover letter header. Align the date to the right of the page.

2. Employer information: Add the contact details of the company you’re applying to, including its name, address, phone number, and the name of whomever will receive your application.

3. Greeting: ‘Dear [Name],’ is ideal. Find the right person to address your cover letter to by checking the job description or searching for their name via LinkedIn, the company website. Or you can call the company and ask.

4. Introductory paragraph: Let the reader know who you are, your level of work experience, and why you think you’re a good fit for the role.

5. Body paragraph(s): This is the main content of your cover letter. Use this space to provide context for your CV, and describe some of your greatest professional accomplishments and skills.

6. Closing paragraph: Finish with your availability, restate your enthusiasm for the role, and provide your contact details again so the recruiting manager can quickly get in touch.

7. Sign-off: Use ‘Yours sincerely’ or ‘Yours faithfully’, and your full name. You can also add an e-signature for a personal touch if you like.

Copy and paste the cover letter template below into your preferred word processor and follow the template’s suggestions to begin writing your own.