The Ultimate Cover Letter Template

Cover letters can be tough to write. Because most of us only write a cover letter when we’re looking for a job, we can go years without having to exercise this skill. When it’s time to write a cover letter, then, the process can feel unfamiliar or even stressful.

What Should a Cover Letter Contain?

Typically, a cover letter is short, clear and to the point. Key information your cover letter should contain includes:

  • Your name, address and the date
  • A brief introduction of yourself
  • The purpose of the cover letter
  • One or two reasons you believe you’d be a great fit for the job
  • A call to action
  • A formal opening and closing

While this seems like a lot of work for a one-page document, a cover letter that contains all these elements can be reassuring for a hiring manager. This cover letter helps the hiring manager understand you better and feel confident that you could be the right choice for the job.

What Does the Ultimate Cover Letter Look Like?

Here’s an example of an outstanding cover letter. To adapt this template, simply replace the information in brackets with your own information.

[31 October 2019]

[Candidate
123 Jobseeker Street
St. Paul, MN 55111]

 

[Hiring-Manager
Great Place to Work, Inc.
456 New Job Way
St. Paul, MN 55111]

Dear [Hiring-Manager],

My name is [Candidate]. I learned about your job posting for [an accounts payable specialist] from [my recruiter, THE RIGHT STAFF LLC]. I believe I’d be a great fit for this position.

I have [2] years of experience in [accounts payable] at [My Old Company], where I focused primarily on [data entry and verifying information]. Last year, I was responsible for [19 separate accounts], and [zero errors] were found in my work. In comparison, the average [accounts payable specialist] at [My Old Company] was responsible for [12 separate accounts] and had [three errors] per year.

Currently, I’m working on [completing my associate’s degree in bookkeeping], which I’m confident will help me succeed in this role because [it has sharpened my math skills and my understanding of accounts payable].

I’m interested in working with [Great Place to Work] because I’m passionate about [sustainable forestry], which is a value I know your company shares. I’m also excited to work with a team that [handles more complex accounts].

If you have questions, please reach out to me at [(612) 555-7890] or online at [casey.candidate@emailaddress.com]. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

[Candidate]

At THE RIGHT STAFF, LLC, our Minnesota based recruiting agency connects candidates to some of the best jobs in the state, including in the Twin Cities area. To learn more or to find your next great job adventure, contact us today.

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